[Identification of VHL-associated changes in clear cell renal carcinoma: the application of combined genome and expression analyses]

Sporadic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) represents a heterogeneous tumor, which is traditionally classified into subtypes based on morphological criteria. In recent years high-throughput molecular analyses have been able to identify genomic and proteomic alterations in tumor cells. These markers are the basis for a molecular classification of RCC and bear prognostic value. However, an isolated consideration of genomic and proteomic alterations prevents deeper insights into the complex processes of carcinogenesis. Here we summarize recent studies focussing on this aspect of RCC and present a systems biology concept for the identification of novel tumor markers. These could be applied to improve future diagnosis and therapy of RCC.