Predicting spread or recurrence of deadliest skin cancer

A pioneering test has been developed by a team of scientists and clinicians in Newcastle to reliably predict the spread or recurrence of the deadliest skin cancer

As they make scientific breakthroughs in understanding how skin cancer grows, technological advancements follow

Led by Professor Penny Lovat of Newcastle University, UK, in collaboration with AMLo Biosciences, a spin-off company of the university, the test offers protection for patients with early-stage melanoma

By applying the AMBLor™ test to a standard biopsy of primary melanoma resection, patients with a lower risk of recurrence or spread can be identified

With support from the National Institutes of Health (NIHR), AMLo Biosciences, in partnership with AMLo Biosciences, offers a referral service that sends a patient's melanoma slide to a lab for analysis

melanoma growth

Melanoma is on the rise globally, with more than 16,000 people diagnosed with the cancer each year in the UK and 96,000 in the US

In the new study, the authors explain how early-stage melanomas at risk of spreading secrete a growth factor, TGFβ2, that leads to the reduction or downregulation of AMBRA1 and Loricrin proteins -- both of which are present on tumor skin

"A test like AMBLor?, which tells you that your tumor is really low risk, can go a long way towards relieving anxiety in an already stressful situation

"Patients will understand what a low-risk outcome means

Professor Penny Lowatt added: "Our test provides a personalised prognosis as it more accurately predicts whether your skin cancer is less likely to spread

Phil Brady, chief operating officer of the British Skin Foundation, said: "The British Skin Foundation is proud to support Professor Penny Lowatt's groundbreaking melanoma research

Consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesman Professor Nick Lewell, who was not involved in the study, said: "This is great news

Currently, primary tumors are surgically removed, and pathologists study biopsies under a microscope to determine the skin cancer's stage and risk of spreading (metastasis)

The ambr1 and loricrin tests are accredited by UKAS and are already available through the private referral service of the AMBLo Biosciences subsidiary

article title

Melanoma secretion of TGFβ-2 leads to loss of epidermal AMBRA1 threatening epidermal integrity and facilitating tumor ulceration