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Targeted methods for molecular characterization of EGFR mutational profile in lung cancer Moroccan cohort

Houda Kaanane1, Hicham El Attar2, Amal Louahabi3

  • 1Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca, University Hassan II, Casablanca 20250, Morocco.

Gene
|April 21, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Identifying EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is crucial for targeted therapy. This study evaluated ADx-ARMS and Idylla™ systems for EGFR mutation profiling in Moroccan NSCLC patients, enabling routine molecular diagnostics.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • EGFR mutations are key biomarkers for targeted therapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • Targeted therapy for NSCLC is available in Morocco, necessitating local EGFR mutation profiling.
  • Outsourcing molecular diagnostics poses logistical and economic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate ADx-ARMS and Idylla™ systems for identifying EGFR mutations in NSCLC.
  • To establish efficient, routine molecular diagnostic methods for EGFR mutations in Moroccan clinical laboratories.
  • To facilitate patient selection for tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) therapy.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 239 NSCLC patient cases using DNA from FFPE tissues.
  • Employing HRM-PCR combined with real-time PCR (ADx-ARMS technology) for EGFR mutation detection.
  • Utilizing the Idylla™ system for molecular characterization of EGFR mutations in exons 18-21.

Main Results:

  • EGFR mutations were identified in a subset of NSCLC patients.
  • The most frequent mutations were exon 19 deletions (70%), followed by exon 21 L858R (15%).
  • Exon 20 and exon 18 mutations (G719X) each accounted for 7.5% of positive cases; all were adenocarcinomas, and 42.1% were smokers.

Conclusions:

  • ADx-ARMS and Idylla™ are sensitive and efficient methods for EGFR mutation profiling.
  • Implementing these methods in routine practice can improve NSCLC patient access to targeted therapies.
  • Local molecular diagnostics are essential for personalized cancer treatment in Morocco.
Keywords:
ADx-ARMSEGFR mutationsIdylla™Moroccan cohortNSCLCTargeted methods

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