Track 27: Molecular Pathology

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 Definition and Scope, Techniques and Methods, Applications in Oncology, Applications in Genetic Disorders, Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers, Integration with Other Disciplines, Molecular Pathology, PrecisionMedicine, Genomic Medicine, Cancer Diagnostics, Pathology Innovation, Molecular Diagnostics, Biomarkers, Clinical Pathology, Oncology Research, PersonalizedMedicineGenetics, Medical Research, Pathology Research, Healthcare Innovation, Translational Medicine

Molecular Pathology is a branch of pathology that focuses on the study of diseases at the molecular level. It involves examining the molecular and genetic mechanisms that underlie disease processes, using techniques from molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. This field aims to improve disease diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment through a detailed understanding of the molecular alterations that occur in various conditions. Molecular pathology is the study of disease at the molecular level, including the molecules found in tissues and organs. It involves analysing DNA, RNA, and proteins in a disease state to investigate human disease processes. For example, sophisticated tests like Next Generation Sequencing can be performed on DNA or RNA from tissue or blood samples to reveal genetic changes. These changes may be indicative of germline disorders or somatic neoplastic.
1. Key Concepts in Molecular Pathology

a. Molecular Mechanisms of Disease

Genetic Mutations: Molecular pathology examines genetic mutations, such as point mutations, insertions, deletions, and chromosomal rearrangements, that drive disease processes.

Epigenetic Changes: It also studies epigenetic modifications (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modification) that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

Gene Expression: Analysing changes in gene expression levels through techniques such as quantitative PCR and RNA sequencing helps understand how deregulated gene expression contributes to diseases.

b. Diagnostic Techniques

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): PCR amplifies specific DNA or RNA sequences to detect genetic mutations or pathogens.

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): NGS allows for high-throughput sequencing of DNA or RNA, enabling comprehensive genetic profiling and identification of mutations across the genome.

In Situ Hybridization: This technique detects specific nucleic acid sequences within tissue sections, helping visualize gene expression patterns and localization.