Towards better cancer care in pediatric oncology: exploring the biomarker and therapeutic potential of cancer testis antigens.

Cancer is generally considered a disease of old age; however, it can also affect children (1-14 years of age) and adolescents (14-19 years of age). In fact, cancer has become the leading cause of disease-related deaths in young individuals. While advancements in cancer treatment have increased the number of childhood cancer survivors, the short and long-term adverse effects of cancer treatment at a young age are concerning. This study aims to identify new molecules that specifically target cancer cells, limiting the negative side effects on a child’s developing body, and improve the prediction of treatment response and clinical outcome. Specifically, the project will focus on cancer testis antigens (CTAs) given their highly tumor-specific expression, immunogenic properties and promising results as targets in adult cancers. Preliminary analysis of 4 publicly available pediatric tumor datasets revealed a strong negative correlation between CTA expression and survival, highlighting their potential clinical relevance. The project will address several key aspects related to CTAs in pediatric cancer. Firstly, we will explore the CTA expression in different solid tumors from children in Qatar, as well as pediatric cancer cell lines. Secondly, we will assess the presence of anti-tumor immune responses against CTAs, specifically CTA autoantibodies, in blood samples obtained from the same cohort of children. Lastly, we will explore the biological functions of CTAs in pediatric cancer cell lines , which will enhance our understanding of their role in pediatric oncology. To achieve these objectives, we will leverage Dr Decock’s expertise in CTAs, biomarker discovery and translational research as well as the cutting-edge facilities at the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI). Dr Hendrickx, coordinator of the Sidra Medicine Pediatric Cancer Biorepository, and Dr Ozer, division chief of anatomical pathology, will play a crucial role in acquiring patient tumor and blood samples. Furthermore, the project aims to foster a collaborative research environment and support capability building through graduate student engagement and postdoctoral training. This study holds great potential to advance pediatric cancer research and care in Qatar and worldwide. Anticipated outcomes include the identification of novel CTA-based tumor biomarkers and circulating autoantibodies that could be used to predict cancer staging, and monitor disease progression and treatment response. Additionally, the study could facilitate the development of more effective and safer treatment options for pediatric cancer patients.

Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU)