Translation of DNA methylation markers for the early detection of renal cell cancer: raising the odds

This thesis evaluates the utility of DNA methylation markers for the non-invasive early detection of renal cell carcinoma. After providing an overview of all available diagnostic DNA methylation markers for renal cell carcinoma, the conclusion that none of these are clinically useful was drawn. In addition, several pitfalls that could contribute to the lack of clinical translation of DNA methylation markers were identified. Several of these pitfalls were further investigated and the researchers concluded that amongst others, biological, technical, experimental and methodological aspects could explain the lack of clinical translation of biomarkers. Additionally, large-scale setting up and utilizing biobanks is being advocated, in order to facilitate clinical translation of biomarkers. Taking into account the abovementioned pitfalls, novel DNA methylation markers were identified and measured in both tissue and urine of renal cell carcinoma patients, which led to promising results. In the future, this research could lead to the development of a non-invasive urine test for diagnosing renal cell carcinoma.