From extensive systematic review and meta-analysis of pre- and peri-natal variables in relation to testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT), DCEG investigators identified inverse associations with birth-order and sibship size in relation to TGCT. In addition, it is known that there is an increased risk of testicular cancer in men of affected brothers. These observed associations may indicate an infectious etiology. DCEG investigators are currently conducting a small pilot study of a viral chip which tests for the presence of 655 human viruses. They have extracted RNA from 24 Caucasian TGCT specimens, all of which were snap-frozen from fresh. The results from this pilot may be extended into a larger study.
For more information, contact Michael Cook.
Hormonal and Reproductive Epidemiology Branch - Research Areas