Chromosomal Insights in Breast Cancer Care

Context:

On March 26, 2025, The Hindu reported a pioneering study unveiling a novel approach to breast cancer management. By analyzing the physical properties of chromosomes, researchers have developed a method to monitor treatment responses and predict recurrence, offering hope for improved outcomes in India, where breast cancer remains a leading health challenge with a 66.4% five-year survival rate.

Key Information Points:

• Breakthrough Study: Researchers introduced a method using chromosome physical properties (dimensional, mechanical, electrical) to track breast cancer therapy outcomes and predict recurrence earlier than traditional methods.
• Current Monitoring: Typically, treatment effectiveness is assessed via tumor size, hormone levels, and imaging scans, which may delay recurrence detection.
• New Approach: The study employs a multi-parametric strategy, leveraging Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analyses to detect chromosomal structural changes linked to cancer.
• Drug Impact: Epigenetic modifier drug valproic acid (VPA) alters cancer chromosome properties, enabling monitoring of chemotherapy response, treatment success, and recurrence risk.
• Technique Used: Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), a single-molecule method, uses a sharp probe to physically assess chromosome responses, revealing critical mechanical and electrical changes.
• Research Goal: Led by Dr. Rakshit, the team aims to collaborate with hospitals for patient sample validation to refine this strategy.
• Breast Cancer in India: Affects 1 in 28 women, with 310,720 invasive cases estimated in 2024; late detection drives high mortality, underscoring the need for early intervention tools.
• Global Relevance: Breast cancer is a top cause of death among women worldwide, making this innovation significant for global health advancements.
• Future Potential: This approach could enhance precision in treatment monitoring, potentially reducing recurrence rates and improving survival through timely adjustments.

Key Terms:

• Chromosomes: Structures carrying genetic information, now used to monitor cancer therapy.
• Breast Cancer: A major malignancy affecting women, with high incidence in India.
• Valproic Acid (VPA): An epigenetic drug altering chromosome properties in cancer cells.
• Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): Advanced technique probing single molecules for physical properties.
• Recurrence: Return of cancer post-treatment, a key focus of this study.
• Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC): Analytical method assessing diagnostic accuracy.
• Epigenetic Modifier: Drug altering gene expression without changing DNA sequence.

Link To The Original Article – https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/researchers-announce-breakthrough-in-breast-cancer-care-by-using-chromosomes-to-monitor-treatment-and-predict-recurrence/article69376214.ece