Genetic testing of archival or freshly biopsied tumour tissue is required for most types of cancer to aid in diagnosis and treatment. While genetic testing is currently performed on tumour tissue, rapidly evolving technology will allow the majority of assays to be performed of circulating tumour DNA found in the blood. The advantage of a blood test includes reduced costs, less invasive approach and ability for repeat testing as tumours evolve throughout the course of therapy. The aim of this project is to create a single genetic assay that will provide a comprehensive panel of cancer mutations required for both standard therapy and for patients to participate in cancer research. We will work with physicians at BC Cancer to make the reporting of the test results quick and convenient, and determine how this new test would change the management of cancer patients.
Development of an automated end-to-end next generation sequencing assay to detect all classes of genetic variant in a single diagnostic test
Canada’s Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre respectfully acknowledges that we operate on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) nations who have cared and nurtured this land for all time. We give thanks, as uninvited guests, to be able to live and work on these lands.
