EC consists of a pre-malignant phase that can become malignant. Unfortunately the genes involved in the development of these states are unknown. Currently, the only means of predicting an individual's risk for developing EC is through histological examination, although this method is highly unreliable. Identification of a biochemical marker for the detection of EC would not only allow for earlier treatment of the disease, but could possibly serve as a therapeutic target as well.

INNOVATION:  Scientists at UCLA have identified a biomarker that can predict: 1) a patient's risk for developing malignant endometrial carcinoma and 2) the prognosis. Samples from patients with atypical endometrial proliferative disease were examined and the likelihood of progression to cancer was determined to be highly correlated with the biomarker; elevated levels predict progression to cancer while low levels predict non-progression. In patients with endometrial cancer the biomarker was also found to serve as a prognosticator; elevated levels of the biomarker predict a poor clinical outcome.

UCLA scientists have also succeeded in generating antibodies against the biomarker. These antibodies can potentially be used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS 

• The biomarker can be used as a diagnostic tool. During premalignancy, the biomarker can be used to determine patients who are at a high risk for progression to cancer.
• The biomarker can function as a prognostic tool. Its expression level in endometrial carcinoma samples can be used to identify patients with a poor prognosis.
• Therapies targeting the biomarker itself may be used to treat EC.

ADVANTAGES

• This is the first identified biomarker for endometrial carcinoma.
• Biopsy samples can be assayed for the presence of the biomarker.
• The biomarker has previously been characterized.
• Antibodies can be raised against the biomarker and used for diagnostic, prognostic and potential therapeutic applications.

Reference: UCLA Case No. 2005-478

PCT Application: PCT/US2006/007180