Cancer Biotechnology

Cancer is caused by undesired changes in the genome as well as in the proteome. These changes allow cancer cells to evade normal cellular control mechanisms and so these cells start growing uncontrolled. Cancer research and drug development have entered a new age, together with the concomitant emergence of novel technologies, such as whole-genome sequencing, proteome profiling and exome sequencing. Molecular research has showed major types of mutations for many cancer types, locating specific targets and, therefore, drug development. This recently gathered information helped to cater the need for tailored, individualized cancer treatment. The biotechnology landscape confirms that, for each patient, gene sequencing developing, individual protein profiling, intracellular signalling pattern or miRNA signature are paving the road to personalized medicine concept and toward patient-dedicated therapy.