Esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), the most common form of esophageal cancer in the U.S., often develops from Barrett’s esophagus (BE)—a condition where the esophageal lining is replaced with tissue similar to the intestinal lining.

The role of FISH testing in early detection:

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) plays a vital role in identifying genetic abnormalities associated with BE and its progression to EAC. By detecting key genomic markers, FISH helps researchers and clinicians:

• Identify high-risk patients early by uncovering signs of genomic instability.
• Distinguish benign from malignant cells, aiding in more accurate diagnoses.
• Guide monitoring and treatment decisions, allowing for earlier intervention.

Key FISH markers for BE and EAC include:

• MYC amplification – linked to increased tumor growth and EAC progression.
• P16 (CDKN2A) loss – a common early event in BE, associated with dysplasia.
• HER2 amplification – present in a subset of EAC cases, guiding targeted therapy decisions.
• ZNF217 amplification – associated with increased malignancy potential and poor prognosis.

Why early detection matters:

Esophageal adenocarcinoma has a 5-year survival rate of only 20%, largely due to late-stage diagnosis. FISH testing enables the identification of high-risk patients earlier, supporting more effective treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.

At Empire Genomics, we offer a range of FISH probes, including MYC, P16, HER2, and ZNF217, designed to detect key genetic markers associated with Barrett’s esophagus and EAC—supporting cancer research and promoting earlier, more accurate detection.