Lung Cancer Proteogenomics: Shaping the Future of Clinical Investigation

Abstract

Background: Lung cancer is associated with a high incidence of mortality worldwide. Molecular mechanisms governing the disease have been explored by genomic studies; however, several aspects remain elusive. The integration of genomic profiling with in-depth proteomic profiling has introduced a new dimension to lung cancer research, termed proteogenomics. The aim of this review article was to investigate proteogenomic approaches in lung cancer, focusing on how elucidation of proteogenomic features can evoke tangible clinical outcomes. Methods: A strict methodological approach was adopted for study selection and key article features included molecular attributes, tumor biomarkers, and major hallmarks involved in oncogenesis. Results: As a consensus, in all studies it becomes evident that proteogenomics is anticipated to fill significant knowledge gaps and assist in the discovery of novel treatment options. Genomic profiling unravels patient driver mutations, and exploration of downstream effects uncovers great variability in transcript and protein correlation. Also, emphasis is placed on defining proteogenomic traits of tumors of major histological classes, generating a diverse portrait of predictive markers and druggable targets. Conclusions: An up-to-date synthesis of landmark lung cancer proteogenomic studies is herein provided, underpinning the importance of proteogenomics in the landscape of personalized medicine for combating lung cancer.