Identification of a novel RSRC1-ALK (R6: A20) fusion using next-generation sequencing technique

Jingjing Xia1, Sheng Chen2, Zhujian Zhang3

  • 1Department of Medical Examination, Huai'an First People's Hospital, Nanjing Medical University, Huai'an 223300, PR China.

Cancer Genetics
|August 12, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Next-generation sequencing identified a novel RSRC1-ALK fusion in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This discovery led to targeted therapy with ensartinib, achieving over 24 months of progression-free survival.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion is a key driver mutation in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) offer effective treatment for NSCLC patients with ALK fusions.
  • Accurate detection of ALK fusions is crucial for guiding TKI therapy selection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify ALK fusion in a patient with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
  • To investigate the potential benefit of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.
  • To report a novel RSRC1-ALK fusion and its clinical implications.

Main Methods:

  • Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and next-generation sequencing (NGS) were employed.
  • NGS detected a novel RSRC1-ALK (R6: A20) fusion.
  • Sanger sequencing confirmed the ALK gene rearrangement, present in 80% of tumor cells.

Main Results:

  • Postoperative pathological analysis revealed invasive and minimally invasive adenocarcinoma.
  • A novel RSRC1-ALK fusion (exon 6 of RSRC1 and exon 20 of ALK) was identified by NGS.
  • Immunohistochemistry confirmed ALK-positive expression, and the patient achieved over 24 months of progression-free survival on ensartinib.

Conclusions:

  • Next-generation sequencing is a valuable tool for identifying novel ALK fusions in NSCLC.
  • Targeted therapy with ensartinib demonstrated significant efficacy in a patient with the RSRC1-ALK fusion.
  • Early detection and targeted treatment of ALK fusions improve outcomes for NSCLC patients.