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genomic characterization

(jeh-NOH-mik KAYR-ik-ter-rih-ZAY-shun)
A laboratory method that uses a sample of tissue, blood, or other body fluid to learn about all the genes in a person or in a specific cell type, and the way those genes interact with each other and with the environment. Genomic characterization may be done to find out why some people get certain diseases while others do not. Genomic characterization may also be done on tumor tissue to look for mutations or other genetic changes in a tumor's DNA. This may help doctors understand how different types of cancer form and respond to treatment, which may lead to new ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent cancer. Also called genomic profiling.
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Search NCI's Dictionary of Cancer Terms