Accelerating the understanding of cancer biology through the lens of genomics

Abstract

A core mission of cancer genomics is to comprehensively chart molecular underpinnings of cancer-driving events and to provide personalized therapeutic strategies. Primarily focused on cancer cells, cancer genomics studies have successfully uncovered many drivers for major cancer types. Since the emergence of cancer immune evasion as a critical cancer hallmark, the paradigm has been elevated to the holistic tumor ecosystem, with distinct cellular components and their functional states elucidated. We highlight the milestones of cancer genomics, depict the evolving path of the field, and discuss future directions in completing the understanding of the tumor ecosystem and in advancing therapeutic strategies.