Research Project
Full description This project explores cancer-associated epigenetic reprogramming through the Methylscape, a cancer-specific DNA methylation pattern that alters DNA's affinity for gold surfaces. Using a TGF-β-induced EMT model in breast cancer cell lines, we track dynamic methylation changes associated with tumour progression, showing increased enrichment of mesenchymal-state DNA. By integrating gold-based DNA enrichment with methylation sequencing and qPCR, we identify preferential capture of hypermethylated regions. We further develop a low-cost, disposable electrochemical platform for stage-specific cancer monitoring. This work establishes Methylscape as a promising biomarker for non-invasive, real-time tracking of cancer progression.