Somatic Alteration Detection in Disseminated Cancer Cells

The patent applies preliminary action by performing genomic sequencing of disseminated cancer cells (DCCs) in lymph nodes before initiating cancer therapy. This early molecular characterization allows determination of cancer stage and type prior to treatment, enabling selection of appropriate therapy without waiting for disease progression or metastasis manifestation. The somatic alteration profiling is conducted in advance to guide therapeutic decisions.

The patent uses somatic alterations in DCCs as an intermediary marker to indirectly assess cancer stage and type. Instead of directly observing tumor size or metastasis extent, the method employs molecular signatures (genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic alterations) as intermediate indicators that correlate with disease progression stage, providing a more accurate and earlier assessment of cancer status.

The patent performs molecular characterization of DCCs through genomic sequencing before therapy initiation. This preliminary action identifies specific somatic alterations (mutations, copy number variations, epigenetic changes) that define the cancer's molecular profile, enabling selection of targeted therapies that match the patient's specific genetic alterations, thereby improving treatment effectiveness from the outset.

The patent employs feedback by using the molecular profile of DCCs (somatic alterations detected through sequencing) to guide therapeutic decisions. The information obtained from characterizing DCC genetics feeds back into treatment selection, allowing clinicians to choose therapies targeted at specific molecular alterations present in the patient's cancer cells, creating a closed-loop system that adapts treatment to individual molecular characteristics.

The patent uses somatic alterations in DCCs as molecular intermediaries to detect early cancer progression. Instead of directly measuring tumor size or metastatic burden, the method employs genetic, epigenetic, and transcriptomic changes in DCCs as intermediate markers that reflect disease stage and progression, enabling detection of molecular changes before anatomical changes become apparent.

The patent replaces mechanical/physical assessment methods (tumor measurement, imaging-based staging) with molecular analysis methods. Instead of relying on physical dimensions and anatomical observations, the invention uses genomic sequencing, epigenomic profiling, and transcriptomic analysis to determine cancer stage, substituting mechanical measurement systems with molecular characterization systems that provide higher sensitivity and earlier detection.