**Headline:** Urban Genomic Research Links Genetic Profiling to Increased Survival Rates
**Content:**
Over a span of seven years (2015-2021), Metropolis Healthcare embarked on a pivotal research endeavor to investigate the clinicopathological characteristics and molecular transformations in patients with lung cancer. This comprehensive study involved analyzing data from over 3,200 individuals diagnosed with lung cancer, with a sharp focus on genetic changes in critical genes like the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase (ALK), and c-ros oncogene 1 (ROS1). These genes are instrumental in the propagation of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Molecular markers such as these are crucial in steering targeted therapeutic interventions—transforming lung cancer care by aligning treatment plans with the unique genetic profiles of patients.
Key discoveries from the research reveal that next-generation sequencing (NGS) significantly aids in identifying more lung cancer cases and discovering additional molecular targets, thereby broadening the spectrum of treatment avenues. Essential molecular markers like EGFR mutations, ALK, and ROS1 rearrangements stand as significant targets for therapy in NSCLC, aided by existing medications for these genetic shifts.
Analyses of over 3,200 lung cancer specimens disclosed that 83% fell under adenocarcinoma (a prevalent NSCLC variant) and 17% were diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, a subtype impacting lung airways. Both cancer types were predominantly observed in individuals above the age of 60.
According to Dr. Kirti Chadha, Chief Scientific and Innovation Officer & Senior Oncopathologist at Metropolis Healthcare: “Understanding genetic mutations and transformations within cancer-associated genes is vital for clinicians in choosing the most appropriate treatment approach—be it surgery, pharmacotherapy, or chemotherapy. This meticulous molecular examination is the cornerstone of personalized and precision medicine, allowing physicians to adapt treatments based on a patient’s distinct genetic makeup and potential response. This tailored treatment strategy considerably augments the efficacy of NSCLC cancer care, providing patients with therapies best suited to their specific conditions.”
The study highlights the critical nature of molecular profiling in NSCLC, as identifying these genetic variations can direct targeted treatments, potentially enhancing patient outcomes. The leaps in molecular diagnostics, especially with next-generation sequencing (NGS), have transformed oncology. NGS permits the simultaneous sequencing of numerous genes, delivering an extensive understanding of the genetic structure of tumors. This resourceful technology facilitates the tracing of actionable mutations, equipping oncologists to personalize treatments to each patient’s genetic profile.
The NCCN guidelines in 2017 underscored the significance of genetic profiling in NSCLC, prioritizing mutations in ALK, ROS1, and EGFR. Building on this foundation, the 2023 ESMO guidelines for metastatic NSCLC emphasized a wider range of biomarkers, covering BRAF, RET, MET, NTRK, HER2, and KRAS G12C, utilizing advanced DNA and RNA panels. This highlights the paramount role of molecular diagnostics in unraveling the genetic blueprint of lung cancer to enable tailored treatment approaches.
A statement from Metropolis Healthcare communicated their unwavering commitment to progressing this research further by expanding mutation detection capabilities to encompass comprehensive 50-gene panels, aligning with the evolving global benchmarks.