Research Projects

a. Large-scale cancer genome sequencing and international cancer genome consortium

We participate in the International Cancer Genome Consortium, which was established in 2008, and have conducted whole genome/exome/transcriptome sequencing of hepatocellular carcinoma as a Japan ICGC project. We have also been analyzing other tumors that are more frequent in Japan and Asian countries than other areas, such as gastric, biliary tract and lung cancers, and rare tumors (bone cancer, sarcoma and hematological cancer).

Please refer to the research overview 1 and press releases:

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20170623.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20161104.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20160412.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20160126.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20151006.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20150811.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20150129.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20141216.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20141103.html

b. Application of cancer genome analysis to the personalized cancer medicine

To apply cancer genome date for personalized and precise cancer medicine, we have undertaken translational research as well. Using patient-derived cell lines or in vitro/in vivo models, identified cancer driver genes have been tested for uncovering their biological significance and potentialities as therapeutic targets. We have also developed molecular diagnostic for these genomic alterations. We also intimately collaborated with EPOC (Exploratory Oncology Research and Clinical Trial Center: http://epoc.ncc.go.jp/) to promote early-phase clinical trials for targeting them.

Please refer to the research overview 2 and press releases:

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20151216.html

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20140606.html

c. Establishment and development of bioinformatics infrastructures

We have developed the methods for integration analysis of cancer genome, epigenome and metagenome by collaborating with the laboratories inside and outside of National Cancer Center. We have developed the programs and pipelines which analyze somatic point mutation, genome rearrangement, fusion gene, copy number alteration, retrotransposition, virus genome integrations, gene expression, neo-antigen, TCR repertoire, germline variation and others. Furthermore, we have developed programs and pipelines which estimate driver genes, cancer pathways, mutational signatures, immune signatures, enhancer hijacking, insulated neighborhoods disruption, evolution of cancer genomes, analysis of liquid biopsy and others. We constantly improve our programs by innovating new methods and develop new algorithms corresponding to new researches and projects.

Please refer to the research overview 3:

d. New frontiers in the cancer genome research

Analysis of cancer/host genome heterogeneity/diversity including single cell analysis and microbiome/immuno-genomics. Technological establishment of cancer-derived cell-free DNA detection for super-early diagnosis and monitoring of cancer

Please refer to the press release:

http://www.ncc.go.jp/jp/information/pr_release/press_release_20160707.html