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Updated: Nov 25, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancements in Molecular Biomarker Testing for Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: September 8, 2023
Next Generation Sequencing in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Pitfalls and Opportunities
Chiara Lazzari1, Alessandra Bulotta1, Maria Giulia Cangi2
1Department of Oncology, IRCCS San Raffaele, 20132 Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
Lung cancer remains the first cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Thanks to the improvement in the knowledge of the biology of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), patients' survival has significantly improved. A growing number of targetable molecular alterations have been identified. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has become one of the methodologies entered in clinical practice and was recently recommended by the European society for medical oncology (ESMO) to perform a comprehensive molecular characterization in patients with cancer. The current review provides an overview of the clinical trials that have explored the impact of NGS in patients with cancer, its limits, and advantages.
Insights
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) improves non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) survival by identifying targetable molecular alterations. This review examines clinical trials on NGS
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally.
- Advances in understanding non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) biology have improved patient survival.
- Numerous targetable molecular alterations are now identified in NSCLC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical trials evaluating the impact of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) in cancer patients.
- To discuss the advantages and limitations of NGS in clinical practice.
- To highlight the role of NGS in personalized cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical trials involving NGS in cancer.
- Analysis of data on NGS implementation in clinical settings.
- Synthesis of information on NGS benefits and drawbacks.
Main Results:
- NGS is increasingly adopted in clinical practice for comprehensive molecular profiling.
- European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) recommends NGS for cancer patients.
- Clinical trials demonstrate improved patient outcomes with targeted therapies identified by NGS.
Conclusions:
- NGS is a crucial tool for identifying targetable alterations in NSCLC.
- NGS facilitates personalized treatment strategies, improving patient survival.
- Further research and clinical integration of NGS are essential for advancing cancer care.

