Clinical Cancer Epigenetics Unit

Laboratory Staff

Zied Abdullaev, Ph.D., Staff Scientist 
Building 10, Room 3S255
Phone (301) 480-7416

Lana Sultanaeva, Ph.D.
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Building 10, Room 3S255
Phone (301) 480-7298

Shannon Skarshuag, ASCP
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Building 10, Room 3S255
Phone (301) 480-7298

Valerie Zgonc, ASCP
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Building 10, Room 3S255
Phone (301) 480-7298

Leah Cho, ASCP
Clinical Laboratory Scientist
Building 10, Room 3S255
Phone (301) 480-7298

Clinical Utility of DNA Methylation

DNA methylation is a stable and heritable epigenetic modification that can be used to study cancer. Methylation changes can be detected in tumor cells and can be used to classify tumors, identify prognostic markers, and select treatment options.

DNA methylation-based classification of tumors is a promising new method of classification of tumors. It has the potential to improve the accuracy of diagnosis and to help guide treatment decisions.

Here are some of the benefits of using DNA methylation-based classification of tumors:

• Increased accuracy: DNA methylation-based classification is more accurate than traditional methods of classification, such as histology. This is because DNA methylation patterns can be used to identify subtle differences between tumors that are difficult to see under a microscope.
• Improved reproducibility: DNA methylation-based classification is more reproducible than traditional methods of classification. This is because DNA methylation patterns are less subjective than the appearance of tumors under a microscope.
• Ability to classify difficult tumors: DNA methylation-based classification can be used to classify tumors that are difficult to classify using traditional methods.

DNA methylation can also be used for treatment decisions. For example, methylation of the MGMT gene is a common feature of glioblastoma, a type of brain cancer, and methylation analysis can be used to identify glioblastoma patients who are likely to benefit from treatment with temozolomide, a chemotherapy drug that targets the MGMT gene.

Research Application for Epigenetics Study of Cancer

DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification that plays a role in cancer development. Methylation changes can occur in genes that regulate cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. These changes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of cancer.

Epigenetics is the study of how changes in DNA methylation and other epigenetic modifications can affect gene expression without changing the DNA sequence. Epigenetic changes can be inherited or acquired during a person's lifetime. Acquired epigenetic changes can be caused by environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins or radiation, or by lifestyle factors, such as smoking or obesity.

Epigenetic research is a rapidly growing field with the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. By understanding the role of epigenetics in cancer, scientists can develop new therapies that target epigenetic changes and prevent cancer from developing or recurring. 

Instructions for Specimen Submission:

Laboratory of Pathology offers clinically validated test for DNA methylation-based classification of CNS tumor. We accept FFPE blocks, unstained slides, and DNA samples (from the CLIA certified labs) for the testing. Please see instructions in the requisition forms for samples submission. Turn-around time for methylation profiling is 4-6 weeks.

Requisition form for clinical methylation profiling and instructions are available on LP-web site:

• Requisition Form for the Methylation testing
• DNA submission Instructions
• Sample sheet for DNA submission

Contact info:
NIHMethylationProfiling@mail.nih.gov