METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR THE DETECTION AND TREATMENT OF CANCERS

摘要

The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the detection and treatment of melanoma and skin cancers. More particularly, the invention discloses that BCSC-1 expression is altered in melanoma and skin cancer cells, allowing the design of effective detection methods and kits for such conditions. The invention also shows that restoring or increasing expression of BCSC-1 in melanoma and skin cancer cells suppresses tumorigenicity and represents a novel and effective approach for the treatment of melanoma and skin cancers. The invention may be used to detect the presence, stage or type of melanoma and skin cancers, as well as any predisposition thereto. The invention may be used in any mammalian subject, particularly human subjects.