chromosomal instability score

Full Definition

The chromosomal instability (CIN) score quantifies the degree of genome-wide chromosomal aberrations including aneuploidy, copy number variations, and structural rearrangements. High CIN scores often correlate with poor prognosis but may predict sensitivity to certain therapeutics like taxanes or aurora kinase inhibitors. This metric complements point mutation analysis by capturing large-scale genomic instability patterns that affect drug sensitivity and resistance mechanisms in cancer cells.

Usage

Usage note: Often abbreviated as CIN score. Quantifies large-scale genomic alterations rather than point mutations.

In Context

• "The high chromosomal instability score suggested potential benefit from microtubule-targeting agents." — Genomic analysis report
• "Chromosomal instability scoring provides prognostic information beyond standard mutation profiling." — Biomarker validation study