Researchers from a leading university and a national genome center have developed a promising mathematical model for early detection of metastasis in breast cancer patients. This new tool focuses on identifying lymphovascular invasion (LVI), a key early sign of cancer spread.
Currently, LVI can only be detected by examining tissue removed during surgery. However, this mathematical model can predict LVI presence even before any surgical procedure, offering a significant advantage in managing breast cancer treatment.
Mathematical Model Detects Early Signs of Metastasis
LVI acts as an early warning for doctors, signaling the potential spread of cancer cells beyond the breast. The innovative model analyzes gene activity linked to drug resistance, which helps explain why some patients with LVI respond poorly to chemotherapy.
According to sources familiar with the research, the study involved analyzing clinical data from over 600 breast cancer patients and public datasets. Researchers confirmed that patients with LVI often show weak responses to anticancer drugs.
Lab Tests Support Findings
Tumor samples were grown into organoids—miniature, lab-grown models of tumors—to test drug response. Results showed that organoids from LVI-positive tumors were less responsive to treatment compared to those without LVI.
The study also identified specific genes, namely UGT1 and CYP, that break down anticancer drugs faster in patients with LVI. This rapid drug breakdown reduces treatment effectiveness, increasing the risk of cancer survival and spread.
Early Detection Enables Better Treatment
By using gene expression data, the mathematical model accurately predicted LVI status 92% of the time at biopsy, before surgery. This breakthrough could help doctors personalize treatment plans earlier, focusing on therapies that offer better results for aggressive breast cancer.
Experts involved in the project highlighted that this approach can be implemented with existing genomic technologies available locally, making it accessible to Filipino patients.
Further Research and Clinical Validation
Despite the encouraging results, the model remains in its early stages and cannot yet replace traditional diagnostic methods. More clinical studies are needed to confirm its accuracy and effectiveness.
The research team plans to test the gene signatures on larger patient groups and explore the relationship between these genes and LVI. The ultimate goal is to develop a practical test for hospitals that guides doctors in selecting the most effective treatment for each patient.
Breast Cancer in the Philippines
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Filipino women. In 2022, over 33,000 new cases were reported, with more than 11,000 deaths, making it the second leading cause of cancer-related fatalities after lung cancer.
For more news and updates on breast cancer early detection, visit Filipinokami.com.