In a revolutionary advancement for cancer diagnostics, researchers from Fred Hutch Cancer Center and The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have identified a novel biomarker capable of predicting the aggressiveness and recurrence of tumors, particularly in meningioma brain cancers and breast cancers. This discovery, published in Science, could transform precision oncology by offering new diagnostic and prognostic tools.

A Breakthrough in Cancer Research

The study highlights the critical role of RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII), an enzyme found on histone genes. Scientists discovered that elevated RNAPII levels indicate excessive tumor cell proliferation, which can lead to chromosomal instability and increased cancer aggressiveness. By utilizing cutting-edge genomic technology, researchers have unlocked new potential for early cancer detection and risk assessment.

“It has been overlooked that histone genes could be a key factor in cell replication and a strong indicator of tumor cell over-proliferation,” explained Dr. Ye Zheng, co-first author and assistant professor of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology at MD Anderson. “Our new approach enables us to analyze biopsy samples from multiple cancer types, providing a more precise method for tumor diagnosis and prognosis.”

Revolutionary Technology Enhances Diagnostic Accuracy

This breakthrough was made possible by a new profiling technology developed in the lab of Dr. Steven Henikoff, co-first author and professor at Fred Hutch. Known as Cleavage Under Targeted Accessible Chromatin (CUTAC), this method allows researchers to analyze gene expression in long-preserved tissue samples, which were previously difficult to study due to RNA degradation over time.

Histone proteins, essential for DNA structure and stability, have long been recognized in cancer research. However, traditional RNA sequencing methods have failed to detect histone RNA molecules due to their unique structure. CUTAC technology overcomes this challenge by directly measuring gene transcription activity, providing a clearer picture of tumor biology.

Predicting Cancer Aggressiveness with Unmatched Precision

Using CUTAC, scientists examined 36 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples from meningioma patients, integrating this data with nearly 1,300 publicly available clinical samples. The results showed that RNAPII signals on histone genes accurately distinguished cancerous from normal tissue and predicted tumor recurrence. The same technology applied to 13 invasive breast cancer samples confirmed its ability to forecast cancer progression.

“The technique we developed provides insight into a previously overlooked mechanism driving cancer aggressiveness,” said Dr. Henikoff, a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator. “Our findings pave the way for a potential new test that could aid in both cancer diagnosis and treatment.”

Next Steps in Cancer Research

Following these promising findings, Zheng and his team plan to validate their approach across multiple cancer types, with the ultimate goal of integrating this technology into clinical practice. The research was supported by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Cancer Institute.

For patients and healthcare providers, this advancement signals a future where cancer diagnoses are more precise, treatments are more targeted, and outcomes are significantly improved. Stay updated on the latest in medical innovation at Houston Style Magazine.