The emergence of mutational signatures in cancer research represents a paradigm shift,
offering profound insights into tumor biology, therapeutic strategies, and risk assessment.
A recent article published in The Journal of Pathology delves into the significance
of mutational signatures, assessing their role as molecular fingerprints that illuminate
the etiology of individual cancer cases. By deciphering the diverse patterns of DNA
alterations, in the context of urachal and nonurachal bladder adenocarcinomas, researchers
can unravel intrinsic and environmental risk factors shaping cancer development. The
study highlighted a predominance of environmental risk factors in Chinese populations
affected by bladder adenocarcinomas. In this context, in this commentary, we highlight
some of the potential applications of molecular signatures in differential diagnosis
and therapy prediction. As the field continues to evolve, a deeper understanding of
mutational signatures promises to revolutionize precision oncology by offering personalized
approaches informed by comprehensive mutational patterns of tumors. (c) 2024 The Authors.
The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological
Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
