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Published on: April 11, 2016
[Chinese expert consensus on NGS-based probe design for tumor comprehensive genomic profiling testing (2026 edition)]
Abstract:
Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) based on next-generation sequencing (NGS) has emerged as a mainstream approach for clinical diagnosis and treatment with the development of precision oncology. However, as the first stage of NGS testing, probe design has not yet been standardized by a reliable assessment framework. In response to this unmet need, the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, in collaboration with the Tumor Pathology Committee of China Anti-Cancer Association, the National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, and other authoritative institutions, convened clinical experts, pathologists, and representatives from third-party medical laboratories for in-depth discussions on standardization strategies. The expert panel formulated six core technical consensus statements, including the selection of target genes and regions, gene combination strategies, probe performance evaluation, and probe updates, based on a thorough analysis of both international studies and domestic clinical experience. For the design of the probe pool, this consensus methodically suggests a full-process technical specification. It fills a technical gap in tumor NGS probe design by standardizing probe design, establishing a multi-level performance validation system, and dynamically managing probe modifications. Furthermore, it supports the shift of genomic testing from "clinically available" to "clinically reliable" by offering a scientific basis for the National Medical Products Administration's (NMPA) regulatory review of laboratory-developed tests (LDTs) for oncology.
Insights
Standardizing probe design for next-generation sequencing (NGS) in precision oncology is crucial. This consensus provides technical specifications to ensure reliable tumor genomic testing, moving from clinically available to clinically reliable.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Medical Diagnostics
Background:
- Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) using next-generation sequencing (NGS) is vital for precision oncology.
- Standardized probe design is lacking for NGS testing, creating an unmet clinical need.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish standardized technical specifications for tumor NGS probe design.
- To address the lack of a reliable assessment framework for NGS probe design.
Main Methods:
- Convened clinical experts, pathologists, and laboratory representatives for consensus discussions.
- Analyzed international studies and domestic clinical experience.
- Formulated six core technical consensus statements on gene selection, probe performance, and updates.
Main Results:
- Developed a full-process technical specification for probe pool design.
- Established a multi-level performance validation system.
- Introduced dynamic management for probe modifications.
Conclusions:
- Standardized probe design enhances the reliability of tumor genomic testing.
- This consensus supports regulatory review of oncology laboratory-developed tests (LDTs).
- Facilitates the transition of genomic testing from "clinically available" to "clinically reliable".

