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Advances in single-cell molecular analysis are enhancing our ability to explore the mechanisms of metastasis. In this Review, the authors describe how circulating tumour cells (CTCs), captured from a minimally invasive blood test—and readily amenable to serial sampling—have the potential to inform intratumour heterogeneity and tumour evolution.
In 2013, new insights on the molecular features of cutaneous melanoma provided a paradigm shift in our understanding of the biology of this disease. Exploiting immune checkpoint blockade and the use of BRAF-targeted or MAPK-targeted agents contributed to important progress in the treatment and management of cutaneous melanoma.
2013 saw much progress in breast cancer research. Advances in high-throughput technologies continue to refine our knowledge of the molecular biology of breast cancer, and are beginning to give insight into cancer evolution, drug resistance, and how to deploy precision therapeutics.
Next-generation sequencing analysis and characterization of the microenvironment 'field-effect' that promotes hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development has revealed critical players and potential targets for chemoprevention. A biomarker-based drug development strategy is needed to improve future HCC clinical trials and therapies.
