Micronuclei as Cancer Biomarkers: From Chromosomal Instability to Clinical Application
Micronuclei arising from chromosome mis-segregation are hallmarks of chromosomally unstable cancers and catalysts for genomic rearrangements including chromothripsis. This review details the mechanisms of micronuclei formation and their role in driving tumour evolution through genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional alterations. For cytogenetics and pathology laboratories, micronuclei scoring is an established technique that may gain renewed clinical relevance as a biomarker for chromosomal instability, treatment resistance prediction, and monitoring of genotoxic exposure.
The original study
Micronuclei and Cancer.
- Authors
- Di Bona M, Bakhoum SF
- Journal
- Cancer discovery
- Type
- Review, Journal Article
- PMID
- 38197599
Original abstract
UNLABELLED: Chromosome-containing micronuclei are a feature of human cancer. Micronuclei arise from chromosome mis-segregation and characterize tumors with elevated rates of chromosomal instability. Although their association with cancer has been long recognized, only recently have we broadened our understanding of the mechanisms that govern micronuclei formation and their role in tumor progression. In this review, we provide a brief historical account of micronuclei, depict the mechanisms underpinning their creation, and illuminate their capacity to propel tumor evolution through genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptional transformations. We also posit the prospect of leveraging micronuclei as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in chromosomally unstable cancers. SIGNIFICANCE: Micronuclei in chromosomally unstable cancer cells serve as pivotal catalysts for cancer progression, instigating transformative genomic, epigenetic, and transcriptional alterations. This comprehensive review not only synthesizes our present comprehension but also outlines a framework for translating this knowledge into pioneering biomarkers and therapeutics, thereby illuminating novel paths for personalized cancer management.