From the Vault: Noninvasive RNA from Tape Strips Differentiates AK from SCC
In this article from the JDD vault, authors report a single center study that used adhesive tape strips to collect epidermal RNA from lesions suspicious for non melanoma skin cancer and then compared gene expression profiles across actinic keratosis and squamous cell carcinoma. The work sought a biopsy free approach to identify molecular signals that may mark progression from AK to SCC.
The investigators identified a discrete set of genes that differed between AK and invasive SCC, and additional genes that distinguished in situ from invasive SCC. Samples showed clustering by diagnosis, which supports the concept that disease specific genomic signatures can be captured noninvasively at the lesion surface.
Clinical implications are promising but preliminary. Tape strip RNA profiling may offer a practical tool for risk stratification and early detection, and could inform follow up intensity or timing of intervention if validated. The study is limited by single center design and the need for external validation before routine clinical use.
Read the full JDD article for details on methods and findings. Consider discussing noninvasive molecular monitoring at your next clinical meeting and explore collaboration or enrollment in multicenter studies to validate tape strip gene profiling for AK management.
J Drugs Dermatol. 2023;22(5): doi:10.36849/JDD.7097
Blog write-up assisted by AI
