Unlocking the Future of Cancer Diagnosis with Innovation in Molecular Testing

The fight against cancer is being transformed by groundbreaking advancements in molecular profiling and targeted therapy. These innovations promise to revolutionise oncology, offering more precise and personalised approaches to diagnosing and treating cancer. We spoke to Dr Jana Verebová on how we stand at the forefront of this transformative change, providing our patients with access to the latest in diagnostic technology and personalised care. 

How are molecular tests improving cancer diagnosis and treatment? 

Molecular tests are changing the way we understand cancer at its core. By analsing DNA, RNA, and proteins within a patient's tumour, these tests allow us to identify specific mutations or biomarkers that drive the growth of cancer cells. This precise understanding enables more accurate diagnoses and provides information on targeted treatment strategies tailored to each patient's unique genetic profile. 

Molecular profiling also helps identify potential resistance to treatment and offers insights into the prognosis of the disease, allowing oncologists to make the right decisions when managing patient care. 

What types of molecular tests are available? 

There is a wide range of molecular tests available today, varying in scope and complexity. From allele-specific PCR to next-generation sequencing (NGS), these tests provide different levels of insight into the genetic makeup of a tumor. The Allele-Specific PCR is a highly sensitive method that can detect specific single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) in a patient's DNA. It is often used to identify known mutations that have implications for treatment decisions. 

The Sanger Sequencing is a traditional method for detecting unknown mutations in genes, providing valuable information about single-nucleotide changes. 

The Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a state-of-the-art technology that can simultaneously sequence millions of DNA fragments, allowing us to analyse multiple genes and their variations at once. It can include targeted sequencing of specific gene panels, whole exome sequencing (WES), or whole genome sequencing (WGS). 

These varying levels of molecular testing allow us to customise the diagnostic approach based on the needs of each patient, ensuring they receive the most relevant and actionable information for their treatment. 

How does targeted therapy differ from traditional treatments? 

Traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy target all rapidly dividing cells in the body, including healthy cells. While these methods can be effective, they often come with significant side effects due to their lack of specificity. 

In contrast, targeted therapy focuses on specific molecules or pathways unique to cancer cells. By precisely aiming at the genetic mutations driving tumour growth, targeted therapy can enhance treatment effectiveness while minimising damage to healthy cells. This approach can lead to improved outcomes and a better quality of life for patients. 

What does the future hold for personalised oncology? 

Personalised oncology is poised to become the new standard of care. By combining molecular testing with targeted therapy, we can tailor treatments to each patient's unique genetic profile. This approach holds the potential to significantly improve outcomes and survival rates, making cancer a more manageable condition. As research continues to advance, we anticipate the development of even more targeted therapies and the expansion of molecular testing to cover a wider range of cancer types. This progress will enable us to offer more precise treatments and potentially transform the prognosis for many patients.