Abstract: The present invention broadly claims a method for detecting cancer in an individual. The method comprises detecting a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence between residues 10743 and 12125 in mitochondrial DNA. The method comprises obtaining a biological sample from the individual; extracting the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) from the sample; quantifying the amount of mtDNA in the sample having a deletion in the nucleic acid sequence between residues 10743 and 14125 of the mtDNA genome; and comparing the amount of mtDNA in the sample having the deletion to at least one known reference sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for predicting, diagnosing and monitoring skin states and skin diseases. The methods combine the use of non-invasive skin collecting techniques with one or more assays for determining mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) aberrations and Melanocortin 1 Receptor (MC1R) variants, thereby providing a comprehensive tool for identifying, predicting and/or monitoring photoageing, ultraviolet radiation (UVR) damage or skin disease. The methods of the invention may also be effective in screening for new therapeutic agents, skin care products and treatment regimes, and may also be useful for monitoring the response of a subject to a preventative or therapeutic treatment.

Abstract: Mitochondrial DNA deletions useful for the detection of cancers and sun exposure are provided. In particular, methods and kits for detecting mitochondrial DNA deletions for the early detection, diagnosis and progression of prostate cancer, sun exposure and non-melonoma skin cancer are provided.