This technology uses computational methods to identify the cell of origin and differentiation path leading to the formation of a particular type of cancer-associated fibroblasts (“aCAFs,” standing for aggressive cancer-associated fibroblasts), as well as related pan-cancer targets for therapeutic development.
COL11A1 is a prominent marker of a pan-cancer gene signature in a particular type (aCAFs) of cancer associated fibroblasts activated at advanced stages of different tumors. Experimental evidence suggests that CAFs modulate the tumor microenvironment, but their origin and underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear. Understanding the role of aCAFs in cancer prognosis and metastasis will enable the development of therapeutics and diagnostic tools for various solid tumors.
This technology identifies a type of adipose-derived stromal cells (ASCs) that can transform into aCAFs following interaction of cancer cells with the adipose microenvironment. It uses RNA sequencing and computational methods to demonstrate the continuous transition of the gene signature of ASCs into the aCAF signature. This technology identifies potential pan-cancer metastasis-inhibiting targets for therapeutic development, prominent among which is long noncoding RNA LINC01614 and protein-coding genes such as THBS2 and SFRP4.
IR CU21079
Licensing Contact: Beth Kauderer