Next-generation sequencing-based clinical sequencing: toward precision medicine in solid tumors.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has advanced significantly, becoming integral to clinical practice.
• Genomic research and NGS innovations have detailed somatic and germline mutations in solid tumors.
• Genetic alterations are now used to classify tumor subtypes and guide targeted therapy selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the application of NGS-based comprehensive gene panel testing in precision medicine for solid tumors.
• To highlight the importance of quality control in tissue sample handling for routine NGS genomic testing.
• To discuss the future adoption challenges of NGS-based genomic testing in Japan.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on NGS technology and its clinical applications in oncology.
• Analysis of the role of gene panel testing in understanding individual patient responses to therapy.
• Discussion of quality control measures for tissue sample handling in genomic testing.

Main Results:

• NGS-based comprehensive gene panel testing facilitates the investigation of genomic mechanisms, including signaling pathways, microsatellite instability, and tumor mutation burden.
• This approach aids in classifying tumor subtypes based on genetic alterations, enabling personalized treatment strategies.
• Gene panel testing enhances the understanding of the genetic basis for patient response to targeted therapies.

Conclusions:

• NGS-based comprehensive gene panel testing is a clinically valuable tool for precision medicine in solid tumors.
• Ensuring high-quality tissue sample handling is crucial for reliable NGS genomic testing.
• Addressing future adoption issues is necessary for the widespread implementation of this technique in Japan.