Biomarkers in renal cell carcinoma

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review the latest information on biomarkers in renal cell carcinoma and their use in integrated staging systems.

Recent findings: The discovery of the Von Hippel-Lindau defect and the hypoxia inducible factor-1alpha transcripted genes has led to an explosion in the understanding of molecular pathways in renal cell carcinoma. The two most prominent biomarkers are carbonic anhydrase IX and vascular endothelial-derived growth factor. Carbonic anhydrase IX has demonstrated excellent specificity and ability to predict treatment response. Vascular-derived growth factor has good correlation with stage, grade and increased levels with adverse survival. Markers such as CXCL16, ADAM10, B7-H1, Ki-67, survivin, P53, GLUT-1, calveolin-1 and endoglin are continuously being validated. CXCL16 is one of the newest biomarkers, is significantly expressed in papillary renal cell carcinoma and is an independent prognostic marker for better patient survival. The incorporation of biomarkers into integrated staging systems such as UCLA Integrated Staging System, SSIGN and Bioscore are discussed and compared.

Summary: The use of novel molecular biomarkers are being incorporated into clinical practice. The understanding of molecular pathways will lead to tailored treatment to the individual patient.