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

Faculty Supervisor:

Dr. Sandra Dunn

Student:

Joanna Triscott

Partner:

Hannah's Heroes Foundation

Discipline:

Medicine

Sector:

Life sciences

University:

University of British Columbia