Luca Visser

DNA methylation profiles are highly tissue- and tumor-specific, yet the full diagnostic potential of methylation patterns in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) remains underexplored. Our research aims to unlock this potential by analyzing ctDNA methylomes for the diagnosis of diverse cancer types. Using novel sequencing approaches such as cell-free reduced representation bisulphite sequencing (cfRRBS), we can perform cost-effective methylation profiling of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) from patient blood samples. This non-invasive liquid biopsy test holds promise not only for early diagnosis but also for longitudinal monitoring of tumor dynamics.

A strong emphasis of the project is on lymphoma subtypes, where obtaining tissue biopsies with sufficient tumor content for sequencing is often challenging. In contrast, liquid biopsies can provide higher yields of tumoral DNA than traditional biopsies, making them an attractive alternative.

To fully exploit these data, we will develop and train machine-learning models to predict tumor type and tumor burden directly from cfDNA methylation signatures. In addition to cfRRBS, we will also explore nanopore-based epigenetic sequencing (episequencing), which offers the ability to capture methylation signals directly from native DNA. The combination of these complementary technologies will support the development of robust predictive models with strong diagnostic and monitoring potential.
 

• Lab address: PAD-building, entrance 26, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
• Luca Visser is interested to receive invitations for presentations or talks