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Updated: May 21, 2026
Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing
Published on: July 5, 2019
A Patient With Novel PPP1CB -ALK Fusion Advanced NSCLC Achieved Long Survival From Alectinib: A Case Report
Chang'e Jin1, Chenhui Li1, Ting Zhang1
1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Respiratory Diseases, Shenzhen Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Shenzhen Institute of Respiratory Diseases, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology; The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University), Shenzhen, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
ALK gene fusions are well-established oncogenic drivers that occur in approximately 5% of NSCLCs. The EML4 gene is the most frequent fusion partner. With the advent of next-generation sequencing, numerous novel ALK fusions have been discovered; however, many have not been represented in pivotal clinical trials evaluating ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We present a case of advanced NSCLC with a rare PPP1CB-ALK fusion. The patient achieved a durable response to alectinib, with a progression-free survival of nearly four years, and the patient continues to be progression free at the most recent follow-up. This case expands the spectrum of ALK fusion partners in NSCLC and contributes additional clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of alectinib therapy in rare ALK fusions.
Insights
A rare ALK gene fusion, PPP1CB-ALK, was identified in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Treatment with alectinib resulted in a nearly four-year progression-free survival, demonstrating its efficacy in rare ALK fusion cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK) gene fusions are key drivers in approximately 5% of non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs).
- EML4 is the most common fusion partner for ALK.
- Next-generation sequencing has revealed numerous novel ALK fusions, but many lack representation in clinical trials for ALK tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
