The malignancy potential is correlated with the mechanical deformability of the cancer cells. However, mechanical tests for clinical applications are limited. We present here a Triangular Correlation (TrC) between cell deformability, phagocytic capacity, and cancer aggressiveness, suggesting that phagocytic measurements can be a mechanical surrogate marker of malignancy. The TrC was proved in human prostate cancer cells with different malignancy potential, and in human bladder cancer and melanoma cells that were sorted into subpopulations based solely on their phagocytic capacity. The more phagocytic subpopulations showed elevated aggressiveness ex vivo and in vivo. The uptake potential was preserved, and differences in gene expression and in epigenetic signature were detected. In all cases, enhanced phagocytic and aggressiveness phenotypes were correlated with greater cell deformability and predicted by a computational model. Our multidisciplinary study provides the proof of concept that phagocytic measurements can be applied for cancer diagnostics and precision medicine.

Background Chromosomal‐microarray‐analysis (CMA) can identify variants of uncertain clinical significance, susceptibility‐loci for neurodevelopmental conditions, and risk for adult‐onset conditions. We explored choices made by couples undergoing prenatal CMA, their understanding of these findings, reasons for and against receiving them, and whether they believe parents or professionals should decide which are disclosed. Methods Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with women (n = 27) or their partners (n = 15) during the week following prenatal CMA testing and analyzed using grounded theory. Results Over half the interviewees (55%) recalled at least two of the three types of CMA results they chose whether to receive. Sixty‐four percent found the choice simple, whereas 36% found it difficult. All participants could clearly explain their choices, which were based on the perceived actionability and psychological impact of the information. Sixty percent viewed their choice favorably, whereas ~21% would have preferred clinicians to decide for them. More women than men, and more decisive than indecisive participants supported parental choice. Conclusion Overall, expectant parents can make informed choices about which uncertain findings about their fetuses they wish to receive, and value the opportunity to tailor results to their values and wishes. Arguments presented provide the basis for a decision‐aid tool for expecting parents.

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