The purpose and objectives. Purpose: The purpose of this study is to develop digital biopsy-based tool for the diagnosis and treatment effectiveness prediction in breast cancer by linking changes in MRI images with levels of epigenetic biomarkers in circulating DNA (cirDNA). Tasks: 1) Evaluate the heterogeneity of tumours in MRI examinations before and after neoadjuvant therapy; 2) Identify levels of epigenetic biomarkers in cirDNA; 3) Based on clinical, pathological, MRI and biomarker data develop digital biopsy tool for prediction of the treatment effectiveness.
The relevance and novelty of the topic. This topic is especially relevant in view of the wide prevalence of breast cancer and the need to improve the methods of its diagnosis and treatment. Digital biopsies open opportunities for early diagnosis of the disease and treatment personalization. The novelty of the topic lies in the integration of MRI imaging with epigenetic analysis, which is not yet routinely used in everyday clinical practice. Digital biopsy tool will reveal the complex heterogeneity of tumours, giving a new understanding of the various properties of the tumour that can influence the choice and prognosis of treatment.
Methodology and structure of the study. The study will include literature analysis, MRI and epigenetic biomarker data collection before/after neoadjuvant therapy. The analysis of correlations between MRI images and epigenetic biomarkers will allow to develop an algorithm for the treatment effectiveness prediction.