Precision Oncology

We have been a leader in precision oncology since genetic testing has been available. We have evolved through multiple different genetic testing platforms, starting with our home-grown “SNaPshot” panel, and now moving into the world where nearly every patient has next-generation sequencing of 600+ genes. We have performed next-generation sequencing on samples from thousands of patients.  

We analyze genetic testing results carefully with a panel of experts for our own patients, those in the region, and internationally, to provide the right treatment for the right patient. We host a regional molecular tumor board to review challenging cases, and an international tumor board with cases presented from around the globe. We have precision oncology experts in every cancer to integrate testing results with cutting-edge treatment.  

 We work with our talented colleagues from genetics and genetic counseling to ensure that germline mutations are identified and appropriate testing and follow up is arranged for patients and families. 

Visit the Hereditary Cancer Clinic

Cancer is not a single disease. Even cancers that start from the same organ (for example, breast cancer) and look very similar under the microscope have vastly different genetic mutations and molecular characteristics. In many cases, understanding the genetics of a cancer will identify targets for more precise treatments.  

The cornerstone is usually genetic testing of the tumor and blood. In many cases, we run a 600+ gene panel that tests for mutations and other changes in many different cancer-related genes. These tests are reviewed for mutations that might benefit from a particular targeted therapy. These tests may also identify mutations present in normal cells (called germline mutations) that may predispose a patient or their family to cancer or suggest other treatments that may be helpful. 

Other tests may be done that are specific to different types of cancer. For example, breast cancer will have staining for estrogen and progesterone receptors, and the HER2 protein, as well as a gene panel that might predict whether chemotherapy is necessary in some early-stage situations. Many cancers will have staining for the PD-L1 protein to see whether immunotherapy may work.  

Depending on the type of testing and what the care provider is looking into for care decisions, much of this testing is done using blood samples or from material that was already taken for a biopsy or surgically removed.  

Precision oncology is a rapidly changing field. New treatments are being approved almost every month that provide new options for patients where previously none existed. We can quickly identify patients and get their testing results to their physicians right away. We are working to move beyond genetic testing alone as a precision oncology tool and find new ways of using testing and other data results. This includes new markers for immunotherapy success, microbiome profiling, and artificial intelligence (AI). We have several large-scale efforts ongoing to use AI to predict response to treatments, an area that will likely continue to expand.