DNA OncoNex - Head and Neck Cancer

Head and neck cancer (HNC) ranks as the seventh most common cancer globally, with over 660,000 new cases and 325,000 deaths reported annually. The diverse nature of these cancers, combined with their aggressive behavior, underscores the need for advanced diagnostic tools to improve patient outcomes. DNA OncoNex offers a state-of-the-art solution in this regard—a comprehensive targeted Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) assay designed to analyze 125 genes associated with head and neck cancers. This advanced genomic approach provides crucial insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these cancers and supports personalized treatment strategies.

Head and neck cancers encompass a range of tumors originating in the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx. The majority of these tumors, over 90%, are squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC), arising from the squamous epithelium of these areas. HNSCC is characterized by its complex genetic landscape, which includes chromosomal changes and gene copy number alterations.

Why NGS for Head & Neck Cancer?

Traditional diagnostic methods, while useful, often fall short in capturing the full genetic complexity of head and neck cancers. DNA OncoNex leverages Next Generation Sequencing to provide a deeper and more comprehensive analysis. This technique allows for the massive parallel sequencing of multiple genes, offering an expansive view of genetic alterations that may not be detected by conventional methods.

NGS is particularly valuable in the context of head and neck cancer due to several key factors:

1. Heterogeneity of Tumors: Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas exhibit a wide range of genetic variations, which can affect tumor behavior and treatment response. NGS helps in identifying these variations, enabling a more precise understanding of the cancer‘s molecular profile.

2. Complex Genetic Alterations: HNSCC tumors often present with complex chromosomal changes and gene copy number alterations. NGS facilitates the detection of these alterations, providing valuable information for the development of targeted therapies.

3. Tumor Biomarkers: NGS identifies tumor biomarkers that can help in characterizing the diversity of head and neck cancers. This information is crucial for personalized medicine, allowing for the selection of targeted therapies that are tailored to the specific genetic makeup of the tumor.
   
   

Clinical Utility

The clinical utility of DNA OncoNex in head and neck cancer is significant and multifaceted:

• Identification of Driver Mutations: NGS identifies mutations in the DNA sequence that drive cancer development, growth, and spread. Understanding these mutations is critical for selecting appropriate therapies and predicting treatment responses.

• Drug Profiling: The assay provides detailed information on drug targets, facilitating drug profiling for both chemotherapy and targeted therapies. This helps in optimizing treatment regimens based on the specific genetic alterations present in the tumor.

• Predictive Genomic Biomarkers: By identifying predictive genomic biomarkers, NGS guides the therapeutic process, offering insights into how the tumor might respond to various treatments.

• Wide Coverage and In-Depth Analysis: The targeted NGS panel covers a broad range of genes, providing a comprehensive analysis that includes both known and novel variants. This extensive coverage ensures that all relevant genetic alterations are detected, leading to more informed clinical decisions.

• Economical Solution: The multigene approach of NGS reduces the time and cost associated with diagnosis, offering a more economical solution compared to traditional methods.
  
  

When to Consider DNA OncoNex

DNA OncoNex should be considered in the following scenarios:

1. Diagnosis of Head and Neck Cancer: For patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer, NGS provides a comprehensive genomic profile that can inform treatment decisions and guide personalized therapy.

2. Recurrent or Advanced Disease: In cases where head and neck cancer is recurrent or advanced, NGS can help identify new genetic alterations that may influence treatment options.

3. Treatment Resistance: If a patient is not responding to conventional therapies, NGS can uncover potential genetic reasons for resistance, allowing for the adjustment of treatment strategies.

4. Personalized Medicine: Patients seeking personalized treatment plans based on their genetic profile can benefit from the detailed insights provided by NGS.

5. Genetic Counseling: Individuals with a family history of head and neck cancer or those at high risk may use NGS to assess their genetic risk and explore preventive measures.
   
   

MapmyGenome Offerings

MapmyGenome provides a comprehensive suite of services related to DNA OncoNex for head and neck cancer:

• Focus on 125 Cancer Genes: Our targeted NGS panel emphasizes 125 genes associated with head and neck cancer, ensuring a thorough analysis of relevant genetic alterations.

• NCCN Guidelines-Based Screening: We adhere to National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines to screen for clinically significant genes, ensuring that our analysis meets the highest standards.

• Genetic Counseling: Our genetic counseling services guide patients through their results, helping them understand the implications and available management and treatment options.

• Reporting: We report pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants following ACMG recommended guidelines, providing clear and actionable insights.

• Advanced Bioinformatics: Our best-in-class bioinformatics pipeline ensures the most accurate analysis, supported by our experienced Bioinformatics team.

 

Test Specifications

Technique	Coverage	Variant types	TAT	Sample requirements
NGS	800 - 1000X	SNV	3 - 4 weeks	FFPE (Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded) Sample - Somatic cases, Blood Sample - Germline cases