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Published on: March 22, 2016
Precision oncology in the age of integrative genomics
Chandan Kumar-Sinha1,2, Arul M Chinnaiyan1,2,3,4,5,6
1Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA.
Abstract:
Precision oncology applies genomic and other molecular analyses of tumor biopsies to improve the diagnosis and treatment of cancers. In addition to identifying therapeutic options, precision oncology tracks the response of a tumor to an intervention at the molecular level and detects drug resistance and the mechanisms by which it occurs. Integrative genomics can include sequencing specific panels of genes, exomes, or the entire triad of the patient's germline, tumor exome, and tumor transcriptome. Although the capabilities of sequencing technologies continue to improve, widespread adoption of genomics-driven precision oncology in the clinic has been held back by logistical, regulatory, financial, and ethical considerations. Nevertheless, integrative clinical sequencing programs applied at the point of care have the potential to improve the clinical management of cancer patients.
Insights
Precision oncology uses molecular tumor analysis for better cancer diagnosis and treatment. Integrative genomics offers potential clinical benefits despite adoption challenges, improving patient management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Precision oncology leverages tumor molecular profiling for enhanced cancer care.
- It involves tracking treatment response and identifying drug resistance mechanisms.
- Integrative genomics includes sequencing gene panels, exomes, or germline/tumor/transcriptome triads.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role and potential of precision oncology in cancer treatment.
- To discuss the capabilities and limitations of integrative genomics in clinical settings.
Main Methods:
- Genomic and molecular analyses of tumor biopsies.
- Sequencing of gene panels, exomes, and comprehensive patient trios (germline, tumor exome, tumor transcriptome).
Main Results:
- Precision oncology identifies therapeutic options and resistance mechanisms.
- Sequencing technologies are advancing, but clinical adoption faces hurdles.
- Integrative clinical sequencing programs show promise for patient management.
Conclusions:
- Widespread clinical adoption of genomics-driven precision oncology is hindered by logistical, regulatory, financial, and ethical factors.
- Integrative clinical sequencing at the point of care holds potential to significantly improve cancer patient management.
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