Molecular markers for gastrointestinal tumor metastasis

The diagnosis of metastatic tumors often requires invasive procedures such as biopsy, endoscopy, or diagnostic laparoscopy. However, tumors at different stages of metastasis interact with the surrounding stroma and immune system in different ways. Therefore, the release of vesicles and second messengers into the tumor microenvironment may provide information about disease extent or entity through a simple blood draw. In this project, we are exploring this concept, known as liquid biopsy, using microparticles and cell-free DNA. The goal is to improve the early detection of metastatic tumors in the gastrointestinal tract and to predict the success of therapy.

Team

PD Dr. med. Linda Feldbrügge

Felix Gronau

Vincent Wolf

Anna Riddermann