Funktionelle Tumorgenetik
Prof. Dr. med.Evelin. Schröck
Groupleader
Klinische.Genetik@uniklinikum-dresden.de
Tel.: +49 351 458 5136 (Secretariat)
Fax: +49 351 458 6337
Dr. med. Barbara Klink
Leader of the Junior Research Group
"Brain Tumor Functional Genetics"
Barbara.Klink@uniklinikum-dresden.de
Tel.: +49 351 458 2894
Fax: +49 351 458 4316
The goal of our workgroup is the identification of the genetic changes and altered signaling pathways which are associated with the emergence and progression of malignant tumors; particularly, we are interested in chromosomal rearrangements and fusion genes. Our focus is primarily on tumors of the central nervous system, with a particular emphasis on gliomas. The elucidation of the pathomechanisms of brain tumors should on the long run lead to the development of new diagnostic possibilities and therapeutic strategies. Furthermore, we want to uncover the underlying biologic mechanisms responsible for reciprocal translocations and chromosomal losses and gains and therefore contribute to the understanding of tumor development. To this end, we are involved in the research of what is known as 'fragile sites'.
The workgroup has a longstanding experience in the genetic investigation of brain tumors and other cancers. Spectral karyotyping (SKY) and comparative genome hybridization (CGH) are genome-wide techniques that help in the analysis of large tumor sets. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of cell spreads or metaphase preparations as well as paraffin-embedded and fresh frozen material in addition to molecular procedures are routinely being performed in our group. Recently, we have started analyzing tumors using genome-wide next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques.
The junior research group “Functional Tumor Genetics” is involved in the Glio-Math-DD project supported by the European Social Fund (ESF) and the Free State of Saxony. The group is also a member of the UCC Brain Tumor Network Dresden. In close cooperation with clinical partners and other research groups, we are using translational research projects to explain the role of genetic changes in brain tumors. An important goal of the network is the swift application of scientific discoveries in clinical studies and their eventual implementation in patient healthcare.