Uncovering Novel Stage I Molecular Biomarkers for the Early Detection of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Abstract

Although a number of driver biomarkers that are clinically relevant in the management of patients with
non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) have been well documented, there is still about 25% unidentified
genes and somatic mutations involved in the early onset of the disease. Most importantly, a clear
distinction must be made between stage I vs. II and III of NSCLC (i.e., the early stages) in terms
of biomarker discovery to refine inclusion criteria for screening programs and to benefit therapeutic
decision in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant setting. There is much room for improvement in early-stage
NSCLC outcome, identification of stage I-specific biomarkers herein could be the key to refine riskstratification,
prognosis and treatment of these patients. In this study, we aim to identify both tissue
and circulating stage I biomarkers in NSCLC as the stepstone to improve clinical decision-making,
especially regarding early detection, diagnostics and adjuvant therapy.