More significantly, this approach was also able to predict outcome with far greater precision than any other existing predictor. Someone may try to explain to you that rows of complementary gene copies are arrayed in a microscopic pattern. More important than how it is done is what it means for future cancer patients. Improved prediction of the possibility of relapse or non-responsiveness to chemotherapy, and therefore more targeted therapies Improved predictability of outcome. Greater basic understanding of the basic biology of tumors through identification of abnormally expressed genes New alternative therapies, based on specific gene target information, for new drug development.
Pharmaceutical companies are already eager to develop products that target specific genes.
The current way of diagnosing tumors and predicting their behavior is primitive by today's standards. Tumors are generally placed into a group just because they look alike under a microscope. But green apples get mixed in with red apples, and so on. We will correlate those observations with the results of gene expression profiles, and see what works. Ultimately, we will refine the criteria used with the microscope, as well.