Skin Cancer - Genetics and Molecular Pathology

Skin Cancer - Genetics and Molecular Pathology PowerPoint Presentation

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Description : Skin Cancer: Unveiling the Role of Genetics and Molecular Pathology
Skin cancer is one of the most common malignancies globally, and genetics and molecular pathology play pivotal roles in its development and progression. This presentation delves into the genetic mutations and molecular mechanisms that underpin various types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
Key mutations, such as those in the BRAF and NRAS genes in melanoma, the PTCH1 gene in BCC, and TP53 in SCC, drive tumor growth by disrupting critical cellular pathways like MAPK and Hedgehog. The impact of UV-induced DNA damage, which creates mutations in tumor suppressor genes, is also discussed, along with hereditary conditions like Gorlin syndrome and Xeroderma Pigmentosum that elevate risk.
Advancements in molecular diagnostics, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and liquid biopsies, have revolutionized how we detect and monitor genetic changes in skin cancer. Targeted therapies, including BRAF inhibitors, Hedgehog pathway inhibitors, and immunotherapy, provide hope for precision medicine tailored to genetic profiles.
This presentation aims to enhance understanding of skin cancer's genetic foundation while highlighting cutting-edge diagnostic tools and personalized treatments for improved patient outcomes.

Tags : Skin cancer genetics, molecular pathology, BRAF mutations, Hedgehog pathway, UV-induced DNA damage, targeted therapy, melanoma, TP53 mutations

Published on : Dec 03, 2024 | Views : 560 | Downloads : 0

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Skin Cancer - Genetics and Molecular Pathology Dr. Vineeta Bose Oncologist & Hematologist Understanding the Genetic and Molecular Basis of Skin Cancer
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What is Skin Cancer? Definition: Uncontrolled growth of abnormal skin cells due to genetic and environmental factors. Major Types: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC) Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Melanoma Importance of Genetics: Mutations and molecular pathways play a pivotal role in cancer development. Speaker's Note: Skin cancer is primarily caused by UV radiation, but genetics plays a critical role in determining an individual’s susceptibility and disease progression. Reference: Skin Cancer Foundation. Skin Cancer Overview.
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Key Genetic Mutations in Skin Cancer Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): PTCH1 and SMO mutations in the Hedgehog signaling pathway. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): TP53 mutations affecting tumor suppression. Melanoma: BRAF mutations (most common, ~50% of cases). NRAS mutations. CDKN2A mutations linked to familial melanoma. Speaker's Note: Different skin cancers are linked to specific genetic mutations, many of which drive abnormal cell growth by disrupting key signaling pathways." Reference: Nature Reviews Cancer. Molecular Pathways in Skin Cancer.
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Molecular Pathology of Skin Cancer Hedgehog Pathway: Overactivation leads to BCC. MAPK Pathway: Mutations in BRAF and NRAS drive melanoma progression. p53 Pathway: Loss of function promotes SCC. UV-Induced DNA Damage: Creates pyrimidine dimers, leading to mutations in critical genes. Speaker's Note: Molecular pathways like Hedgehog and MAPK are hijacked in skin cancer, leading to uncontrolled cell division and tumor formation. Reference: Journal of Clinical Oncology. Key Pathways in Skin Cancer Development.
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Genetic Syndromes Increasing Skin Cancer Risk Gorlin Syndrome (BCC): Mutations in PTCH1 gene. Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP): Defective DNA repair mechanisms. Familial Melanoma: CDKN2A mutations affecting cell cycle regulation. Speaker's Note: Some individuals inherit mutations that predispose them to skin cancer, underscoring the importance of genetic counseling and early screening. Reference: Genetics in Medicine. Hereditary Cancer Syndromes.
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UV Radiation and Skin Cancer Genetics UV radiation causes DNA damage, including pyrimidine dimers. Mutations in tumor suppressor genes (e.g., TP53). UVA vs. UVB: Different mechanisms of DNA damage. Speaker's Note: UV radiation acts as both an initiator and promoter of skin cancer by inducing genetic mutations that disrupt cellular regulation. Reference: American Academy of Dermatology. UV Damage and Skin Cancer.
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Advances in Molecular Diagnostics Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): Detecting genetic mutations. Liquid Biopsy: Monitoring circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA). Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Identifying protein expression. Speaker's Note: Advanced tools like NGS and liquid biopsy are revolutionizing how we diagnose and monitor genetic changes in skin cancer. Reference: Cancer Research UK. Molecular Diagnostics in Oncology.
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Genetics-Driven Treatments BRAF Inhibitors (e.g., Vemurafenib): For BRAF-mutated melanoma. Immunotherapy: Checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., Pembrolizumab). Hedgehog Inhibitors (e.g., Vismodegib): For advanced BCC. Speaker's Note: Targeted therapies have transformed treatment, enabling precision medicine approaches based on genetic profiles. Reference: The Lancet Oncology. Advances in Targeted Therapies for Skin Cancer.
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Emerging Research in Skin Cancer Genetics Gene editing (e.g., CRISPR) for genetic mutations. Role of microbiome in skin cancer. AI in genetic data analysis and personalized therapy. Speaker's Note: Research continues to uncover new genetic drivers and therapies, opening doors for more effective prevention and treatment strategies. Reference: Nature Medicine. Future Directions in Skin Cancer Research.
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Key Takeaways Genetics and molecular pathology play a central role in skin cancer. Advances in diagnostics and targeted therapies are improving outcomes. Future research will continue to refine prevention and treatment. Speaker's Note: Understanding the genetic basis of skin cancer is critical to improving diagnosis, prevention, and treatment in the fight against this disease. Reference: World Health Organization (WHO). Skin Cancer - Fact Sheet.
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Thank You