Blood Test Accurately Detects Circulating Tumor-Related Mutations

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 23 Jan 2025

Image: The Target-MRD blood test offers personalized, accurate and more effective monitoring of molecular residual disease (Photo courtesy of Adobe Stock)

In patients undergoing initial anticancer treatments, some tumor cells can survive and remain in their bodies. This low 'disease burden' can cause a relapse, which traditional genomic and imaging methods can fail to detect. Timely detection of this 'minimal residual disease' is vital for reducing recurrence risks. Now, a novel blood test combines tumor-informed and tumor-agnostic molecular features for personalized, accurate, and more effective monitoring of molecular residual disease (MRD).

Datar Cancer Genetics (DCG, London, UK) has launched Target-MRD, an advanced MRD monitoring blood test designed for solid organ cancers. Target-MRD is a blood test based on tumor-agnostic next-generation sequencing (NGS) and customized, tumor-informed droplet digital PCR (dd-PCR) assay. Target-MRD provides personalized, ultra-sensitive detection and monitoring of residual disease at the molecular level, if any, to enable early intervention by oncologists, much before the disease becomes unmanageable. Target-MRD combines tumor-agnostic (to detect tumor evolution) and tumor-informed (specific to a patient's cancer) biomarkers, thus providing a comprehensive and ultra-high sensitivity solution for more effective disease management.

Monitoring the slightest recurrence of cancer in patients after treatment is vital to allow for timely interventions before the disease becomes unmanageable. Target-MRD’s dual approach marks a significant step forward in the non-invasive detection of the earliest signs of residual disease. The test offers the potential to transform the management of cancer patients. This novel MRD detection approach that combines tumor-informed and tumor-agnostic strategies is a significant advancement in oncology diagnostics. This innovative methodology enables truly personalized care for cancer patients. With its sensitivity and precision, clinicians have access to invaluable tools for personalizing treatments, improving detection of recurrence, and optimizing long-term patient outcomes.

"Target-MRD reflects DCG's commitment to safe, reliable, and accurate technologies. It is the next generation test that has the potential not only to detect recurrence earlier but to adapt itself to each patient's individual requirements and helps to personalize cancer management decisions," said Dr. Darshana Patil, Senior Director, Global Strategy and Medical Affairs at DCG. "With its ability to sensitively detect minimal residual disease, Target-MRD empowers clinicians with the information they need to make timely, data-driven decisions, improving patient outcomes and ultimately transforming the way cancer is managed."

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