Low-Pass Whole-Genome Sequencing as a Method of Determining Copy Number Variations in Uveal Melanoma Tissue Samples

J Mol Diagn. 2020 Mar;22(3):429-434. doi: 10.1016/j.jmoldx.2019.12.005. Epub 2020 Jan 22.

Abstract

Analysis of specific somatic copy number alterations (SCNAs) using multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) is used routinely as a prognostic test for uveal melanoma (UM). This technique requires relatively large amounts of input DNA, unattainable from many small fine-needle aspirate biopsy specimens. Herein, we compared the use of MLPA with whole-genome amplification (WGA) combined with low-pass whole-genome sequencing (LP-WGS) for detection of SCNA profiles in UM biopsy specimens. DNA was extracted from 21 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded UM samples and SCNAs were assessed using MLPA and WGA followed by LP-WGS. Cohen's κ was used to assess the concordance of copy number calls of each individual chromosome arm for each patient. MLPA and WGA/LP-WGS detection of SCNAs in chromosomes 1p, 3, 6, and 8 were compared and found to be highly concordant with a Cohen's κ of 0.856 (bias-corrected and accelerated 95% CI, 0.770-0.934). Only 13 of 147 (8.8%) chromosomal arms investigated resulted in discordant calls, predominantly SCNAs detected by WGA/LP-WGS but not MLPA. These results indicate that LP-WGS might be a suitable alternative or adjunct to MLPA for the detection of SCNAs associated with prognosis of UM, for cases with limiting tissue or DNA yields.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • DNA Copy Number Variations*
  • Female
  • Genetic Association Studies* / methods
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Melanoma / diagnosis*
  • Melanoma / genetics*
  • Middle Aged
  • Nucleic Acid Amplification Techniques
  • Uveal Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Uveal Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Whole Genome Sequencing*

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor

Supplementary concepts

  • Uveal melanoma