Proteomic detection of cancer in asbestosis patients using SELDI-TOF discovered serum protein biomarkers.

Objectives: To identify biomarkers for cancer in asbestosis patients.

Methods: SELDI-TOF and CART were used to identify serum biomarker profiles in 35 asbestosis patients who subsequently developed cancer and 35 did not develop cancer.

Results: Three polypeptide peaks (5707.01, 6598.10, and 20,780.70 Da) could predict the development of cancer with 87% sensitivity and 70% specificity. The first two peaks were identified as KIF18A and KIF5A, respectively, and are part of the Kinesin Superfamily of proteins.

Conclusions: We identified two Kinesin proteins that can be potentially used as blood biomarkers to identify asbestosis patients at risk of developing lung cancer.