American Association for Cancer Research

Mitelman Database of Chromosome Aberrations and Gene Fusions in Cancer is a comprehensive online database that catalogs the chromosomal aberrations and gene fusions associated with various types of cancer. This database serves as a critical resource for researchers, clinicians, and students in the fields of oncology, genetics, and molecular biology. It provides detailed information on the relationships between specific chromosomal changes and the development of cancer, facilitating a deeper understanding of cancer genetics and aiding in the development of targeted therapies.

Overview

The Mitelman Database is named after Felix Mitelman, a renowned professor of clinical genetics, whose extensive research into the chromosomal changes in cancer laid the groundwork for this database. The database is regularly updated to include the latest findings in the field, making it an invaluable tool for those studying the genetic aspects of cancer.

Content

The database contains detailed records of chromosomal aberrations, such as translocations, deletions, amplifications, and inversions, as well as gene fusions that have been identified in various types of cancer. Each entry provides information on the type of aberration, the genes involved, the types of cancer associated with the aberration, and references to scientific publications that have reported the findings.

Functionality

Users can search the database by gene name, chromosomal location, or type of cancer, making it easy to find specific information. The database also includes tools for visualizing the chromosomal aberrations, allowing users to see the physical changes in the chromosomes.

Importance

Understanding the genetic changes that lead to cancer is crucial for the development of effective treatments. By cataloging the chromosomal aberrations and gene fusions associated with different cancers, the Mitelman Database helps researchers identify potential targets for therapy and contributes to the advancement of personalized medicine in oncology.

Challenges and Future Directions

One of the main challenges facing the Mitelman Database is keeping up with the rapidly expanding volume of data on cancer genetics. Future developments may focus on integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques to improve the database's ability to process and analyze data. Additionally, expanding the database to include more information on the clinical outcomes associated with specific chromosomal changes could enhance its utility for personalized cancer therapy.