November serves as a pivotal month in the fight against cancer, emphasizing awareness for lung, stomach, and pancreatic cancers—three of the most challenging cancers in terms of diagnosis and treatment. These cancers rank among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, underscoring the need for improved understanding, early detection, and innovative therapies1. At Genomenon, we are proud to support this mission by providing researchers and clinicians with access to our Cancer Knowledgebase (CKB), which offers curated genomic data to drive advances in precision oncology.
As part of our cancer awareness campaign, we are offering free access to curated genes associated with these cancers. This initiative aims to empower researchers with the tools they need to uncover genetic drivers, identify actionable targets, and ultimately improve outcomes for patients.
The Genetic Drivers of Lung, Stomach, and Pancreatic Cancer
The genetic landscape of cancer is complex, with numerous genes playing pivotal roles in tumorigenesis. By studying the variants and alterations in these genes, researchers can identify key drivers of cancer progression and uncover opportunities for targeted therapy. Many of these genes are shared across multiple cancer types, reflecting the interconnected nature of cancer biology.
For lung cancer, genes like BRAF, EML4-ALK fusion, CTNNB1, MAP2K1, and PIK3CA are critical. BRAF variants, for instance, are known to activate the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation. Similarly, EML4-ALK fusions are well-established drivers of non-small cell lung cancer and serve as actionable targets for existing therapies. Genes like CTNNB1 and MAP2K1 contribute to dysregulated cell signaling, while PIK3CA variants drive cancer growth through the PI3K/AKT pathway.
In stomach cancer, KIT, BRAF, PIK3CA, and CDKN2A are among the key genes associated with its development.
KIT variants are particularly significant in gastrointestinal stromal tumors, a subtype of stomach cancer. BRAF and PIK3CA are frequently implicated across various cancers, including stomach cancer, where they influence cell survival and growth. CDKN2A, a tumor suppressor gene, is often inactivated in stomach cancer, leading to the loss of cell cycle control.
Pancreatic cancer, known for its poor prognosis, is also driven by genes such as EML4-ALK fusion, BRAF, and ATM. The EML4-ALK fusion, though rare in pancreatic cancers, represents a critical target for emerging therapies. BRAF variants contribute to tumorigenesis, and ATM, a key regulator of the DNA damage response, plays an important role in maintaining genomic stability.
By focusing on these associated genes, researchers can better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying these cancers and explore opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
Genomenon’s Cancer Knowledge Base: A Resource for Precision Oncology
The Genomenon Cancer Knowledgebase (CKB) is designed to bridge the gap between genomic research and clinical application. By curating data from thousands of scientific publications, CKB provides researchers and clinicians with actionable insights into the genetic drivers of cancer. Until the end of December, we are providing free access to a curated selection of key genes associated with lung, stomach, and pancreatic cancers.
The curated insights available through CKB include:
• Comprehensive Genomic Data: Detailed evidence for genetic variants linked to cancer progression.
• Actionable Insights: Information on clinically relevant variants that can inform therapeutic strategies.
• Accessible data rationale : Clear, evidence-based explanations for the inclusion of data, empowering confident decision-making.
This initiative reflects Genomenon’s commitment to advancing precision medicine and improving outcomes for patients facing cancer.
Genetic Insights Drive Targeted Therapies
Understanding the genetic basis of cancer is critical for advancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment efficacy. Many of the genes highlighted above, such as BRAF, PIK3CA, and EML4-ALK fusion, are actionable targets with FDA-approved therapies, emphasizing the importance of identifying these variants in clinical practice. Others, like ATM and CDKN2A, serve as prognostic indicators or predictive biomarkers, offering valuable insights into disease progression and response to treatment.
By providing curated variant data for these genes, Genomenon aims to support the global effort to develop targeted therapies and improve precision oncology. Our Cancer Knowledgebase is a powerful tool for researchers and clinicians working to unlock the genetic secrets of cancer and translate these discoveries into improved care for patients.
Free Gene Access Available Now Through Early January
Throughout November, we are offering free access to carefully selected curated genomic data for lung, stomach, and pancreatic cancer genes. Researchers and clinicians can explore this data to gain insights into the genetic drivers of these cancers and identify potential therapeutic opportunities. Visit our CORE platform to access these insights.
Together for a Better Future
Cancer awareness months serve as an important reminder of the work that remains to be done in the fight against this devastating disease. By providing free access to genes mentioned above, Genomenon hopes to empower researchers and clinicians with the tools they need to make meaningful strides in cancer care. Together, we can work toward a future where every patient benefits from the power of precision medicine.
Create your free CKB account and join us in advancing cancer research and care by leveraging the insights available through our Cancer Knowledge Base. Let’s make a difference—one discovery at a time.
