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Updated: Mar 21, 2026
Next Generation Sequencing for the Detection of Actionable Mutations in Solid and Liquid Tumors
Published on: September 20, 2016
Mutation testing for directing upfront targeted therapy and post-progression combination therapy strategies in lung
1a Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutics Research , City of Hope , Duarte , CA , USA.
Introduction:
Advances in the biology of non-small-cell lung cancer, especially adenocarcinoma, reveal multiple molecular subtypes driving oncogenesis. Accordingly, individualized targeted therapeutics are based on mutational diagnostics.
Areas Covered:
Advances in strategies and techniques for individualized treatment, particularly of adenocarcinoma, are described through literature review. Approved therapies are established for some molecular subsets, with new driver mutations emerging that represent increasing proportions of patients. Actionable mutations are de novo oncogenic drivers or acquired resistance mediators, and mutational profiling is important for directing therapy. Patients should be monitored for emerging actionable resistance mutations. Liquid biopsy and associated multiplex diagnostics will be important means to monitor patients during treatment. Expert commentary: Outcomes with targeted agents may be improved by integrating mutation screens during treatment to optimize subsequent therapy. In order for this to be translated into impactful patient benefit, appropriate platforms and strategies need to be optimized and then implemented universally.
Insights
Individualized targeted therapies for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are advancing. Monitoring for emerging mutations with liquid biopsies can optimize treatment for adenocarcinoma patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly adenocarcinoma, exhibits diverse molecular subtypes driving cancer growth.
- Individualized targeted therapies are increasingly crucial, relying on accurate mutational diagnostics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review advances in individualized treatment strategies for adenocarcinoma.
- To highlight the importance of identifying and monitoring actionable mutations for therapeutic guidance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current strategies and techniques for individualized cancer treatment.
- Discussion of approved therapies and emerging driver mutations in adenocarcinoma.
Main Results:
- Established targeted therapies exist for specific molecular subsets of NSCLC.
- Emerging actionable mutations, including de novo oncogenic drivers and resistance mediators, are identified.
- Liquid biopsy and multiplex diagnostics are emerging as key tools for patient monitoring during treatment.
Conclusions:
- Mutational profiling is essential for directing NSCLC therapy and monitoring for resistance.
- Integrating mutation screening during treatment can optimize targeted agent outcomes.
- Universal implementation and optimization of platforms for mutation detection are needed for patient benefit.
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