Hypermethylation biomarkers associated with poor survival outcomes for head and neck squamous cell cancer

摘要

In accordance with one or more embodiments, the inventors have conducted the first comprehensive integrated genomic and epigenomic analysis in HNSCC, focusing on identifying genes that have concurrent promoter methylation, mutation and expression downregulation. The intersection of unbiased genome-wide methylation sequencing and methylation array screens uncovered 316 genes, which undergo promoter methylation in HNSCC. Close to 60% concordance was found between concurrent greater promoter methylation and gene downregulation, with PAX1 and PAX5 exhibiting the greatest expression loss. Methods for analyzing tissue samples from a subject for increased risk of poor survival outcomes from HNSCC are provided. Kits for measuring promoter methylation of the genes are also provided.