Next-generation sequencing in clinical oncology: next steps towards clinical validation

Compelling evidence supports the transition of next generation sequencing (NGS) technology from a research environment into clinical practice. Before NGS technologies are fully adopted in the clinic, they should be thoroughly scrutinised for their potential as powerful diagnostic and prognostic tools. The importance placed on generating accurate NGS data, and consequently appropriate clinical interpretation, has stimulated much international discussion regarding the creation and implementation of strict guidelines and regulations for NGS clinical use. In the context of clinical oncology, NGS technologies are currently transitioning from a clinical research background into a setting where they will contribute significantly to individual patient cancer management. This paper explores the steps that have been taken, and those still required, for the transition of NGS into the clinical area, with particular emphasis placed on validation in the setting of clinical oncology.