Interview with Prof. Thomas Liehr: Insights into Satellite DNA Amplification and Its Clinical Implications
On March 20, 2025, the Editorial Office of Journal of Cancer Metastasis and Treatment (JCMT) conducted an interview with Editorial Board Member Prof. Thomas Liehr, a leading expert in clinical genetics and cytogenetics from the Institute of Human Genetics, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany. In this interview, Prof. Liehr discussed his research on satellite DNA amplification in prostate cancer, the role of three-dimensional (3D) chromosome structures in human genetics, the future directions of cytogenetics, and associated ethical considerations. He also provided valuable advice for young researchers aspiring to build a career in cytogenetics.
Watch the following video for expert insights from Prof. Thomas Liehr:
Interview Questions:
Q1: Your publication "Amplification of different satellite-DNAs in prostate cancer" in Pathology - Research and Practice highlights the amplification of different satellite DNAs in prostate cancer. Which specific satellite DNA sequences do you consider the most relevant for tumor progression, and why?
Q2: Could satellite DNA amplification serve as a potential biomarker for early detection or prognosis in prostate cancer? What are the key challenges in translating these findings into clinical applications?
Q3: Could you share some insights into the significance of 3D chromosome structure in human genetics and its potential clinical applications?
Q4: What ethical challenges should geneticists consider as genetic diagnostics become increasingly advanced and accessible?
Q5: What advice would you give to young researchers aspiring to pursue a career in cytogenetics?
About the Interviewee:
Prof. Thomas Liehr, Professor at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany.
Prof. Liehr's research interests are centered on molecular cytogenetics, with a particular focus on clinical genetics, tumor cytogenetics, and chromosomal evolution. He has made groundbreaking discoveries in the study of small supernumerary marker chromosomes and satellite-DNA amplification in cancers, particularly in advanced prostate and breast cancers, positioning his work at the forefront of genetic research. With over 870 research papers, 120 book chapters, and 20 books, Prof. Liehr has made substantial contributions to the field of cytogenetics.
Editor: Frida Zhai
Language Editor: Catherine Yang
Production Editor: Ting Xu
Respectfully Submitted by the Editorial Office of Journal of Cancer Metastasis and Treatment
