Retrospective molecular subtyping of pediatric medulloblastomas and the evaluation of BTIC gene signature in tumors with poor prognosis

Medulloblastoma is the most common brain tumor in children. It is treated with a combination

of surgical resection, chemotherapy and radiation. Radiation to a child’s brain can have

harmful side effects that may have implications in later development. We intend to use

molecular gene expression to classify archived tumors into 4 subgroups with associated low

and high risk. Along with this, we will analyze the expression of genes associated with a

highly resistant subpopulation of cells called brain tumor initiating cells (BTICs). These BTICs

may be responsible for cancer recurrence and be driving factors in high-risk cases. Tumor

RNA will be isolated from paraffin blocks and analyzed for expression of 43 different genes

using NanoString nCounter technology. Molecular gene expression and clinical outcome will

be correlated to better understand trends in this disease. We hope to avoid irradiating mild

cases unnecessarily while ensuring aggressive treatment for poor prognosis

medulloblastomas.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sandra Dunn

Student:

Partner:

Hannah's Heroes Foundation

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Other services (except public administration)

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program:

Accelerate

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