Researchers have created ALFA-K, a computer-based tool that predicts how cancer changes over time by tracking whole chromosomes. Instead of just observing tumors at one moment, this approach helps forecast how they will evolve.
Cancer cells often gain or lose entire chromosomes, which can change thousands of genes at once. Until now, it was difficult to tell which of these changes helped cancer survive and which were harmful, because the possible combinations are enormous.
ALFA-K studies single cancer cells over time and analyzes hundreds of thousands of chromosome patterns. It shows that the effect of gaining or losing a chromosome depends on the cell’s overall genetic situation. A change that helps one cell survive might kill another. The tool also measures how whole-genome doubling—when a cell copies all its chromosomes—protects cancer cells from dangerous genetic mistakes.
This research shows that cancer evolution follows clear, measurable rules rather than being random. With this knowledge, doctors may one day predict how tumors will become resistant, choose treatments that keep cancer in weaker states, and better adjust chemotherapy to slow or prevent dangerous genetic evolution.