U-CAN research adds knowledge on the genetics of colorectal cancer

The results of a large study of tumor tissue samples from 1063 persons diagnosed with colorectal cancer were published in the scientific journal Nature in August 2024. The involved researchers used different analysis technologies to profile genetic mutations and changes in gene activity in the tumor tissue. The study found molecular signatures that could predict prognosis for persons newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The researchers hope that the study will contribute to individualized and better treatments to improve outlooks for persons with colorectal cancer.

The majority of the samples analyzed in the study came from the U-CAN biobanks in Uppsala and Umeå. The high sample quality that supported analysis of both DNA and RNA, and the access to clinical information on disease follow-up over several years were key factors for success. The study is among the largest in the world to analyze and provide data on several classes of molecules from the same set of tumor samples. This enables advanced studies of molecular processes within tumors.

- Since the start of U-CAN in 2010, we have focused on creating a unique resource for large-scale studies of cancer. We are tremendously happy to be able to present the results of this study and show the participants in U-CAN that they contribute to great value in cancer research, says Tobias Sjöblom who is one of the principal investigators of the study and the Program director for U-CAN.

The study was a collaboration between U-CAN affiliated researchers at Uppsala University, Umeå University, The KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm, and Science for Life Laboratory in Stockholm and Uppsala, and researchers at BGI Research and BGI Genomics in China.

More information:

News feature on the Uppsala University website

Article in Nature journal (external website)

 

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