Detection and characterization of molecular alterations in tissue and body fluids from patients with head and neck tumors

Abstract

The aim of this study is to characterize genetic and epigenetic alterations in paired tumor and body fluids from patients with HNSCC, treated at the Department of Head and Neck Surgery of the Barretos Cancer Hospital. We expect to identify molecular markers that can classify patients according to their evolution, and to evaluate cancer-specific markers in liquid biopsies from these patients during follow-up for a better management of these individuals and to enable the early detection of new tumors and relapses. The University Medical Center of Utrecht (UMC) is a public health institution, considered one of the largest hospitals in the Netherlands. In regards to cancer research, UMC associates different fields of research, such as basic, translational and clinical research. Dr. Stefan Martin Willems is the main investigator for the UMC Head and Neck Research Group. His research group has a great knowledge in advanced techniques in the field of genomics related to changes in the molecular profile of these tumors. The Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) is a new methodology that is on the rise in the routine of research centers, including the Molecular Oncology Research Center (CPOM), at Barretos Cancer Hospital. The main purpose of this proposal of internship is to take advantage of the wide expertise of Dr. Stefan Martin Willems and his team in the detection and evaluation of specific gene mutations in plasma and oral rinse samples from patients diagnosed with HNSCC, using ddPCR. This collaboration will help in deepening the knowledge about the technique and analysis of ddPCR results applied to liquid biopsy, and will certainly be beneficial for both the student and CPOM. (AU)