Future Directions in the Biology of Neuroendocrine Tumors

Pancreas. 2016 Jul;45(6):783-5. doi: 10.1097/MPA.0000000000000669.

Abstract

The neuroendocrine field is experiencing an ever-accelerating expansion of data about the makeup of these tumors whose biology has long been opaque. Genome sequencing and epigenetic data regarding copy number variations, methylation events, and expression profiling are increasingly available for small bowel and pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. However, in addition to building larger and more robust genetic and epigenetic datasets, the remaining challenge is moving beyond the data toward meaningful information, knowledge, and wisdom. Herein, we will offer perspectives on the existing data and thoughts on future directions.

MeSH terms

  • DNA Copy Number Variations
  • DNA Methylation
  • Epigenesis, Genetic
  • Forecasting
  • Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / pathology
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease / genetics*
  • Genome, Human / genetics
  • Genomics / methods
  • Genomics / trends
  • Humans
  • Mutation*
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors / genetics*
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors / pathology
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Pancreatic Neoplasms / pathology
  • Precision Medicine / methods
  • Precision Medicine / trends
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA