Abstract
Pathway Genomics launched its first liquid biopsy, CancerIntercept™, a noninvasive screening test designed for early cancer detection and monitoring. The test detects mutations that are commonly associated with lung, breast, ovarian, colorectal cancers, and melanoma, as well as mutations that occur less frequently in other cancer types (such as pancreatic, head and neck, thyroid, gastric, and prostate cancers).
The test is offered for two general populations; CancerIntercept Detect is designed to detect tumor DNA in high-risk, but otherwise healthy, patients while CancerIntercept Monitor monitors patients with active or previously diagnosed cancer. According to Jim Plante, CEO and founder of Pathway Genomics, both programs use advanced DNA analysis to identify small DNA fragments that are shed from cancer cells and released into the bloodstream. The tests analyze the presence of 96 frequently occurring DNA mutations in nine cancer genes.
“Early detection is the single most important factor in ensuring successful treatments and improved survival rates,” said Plante. “Cancer patients and those at risk for the disease can take proactive steps to safeguard their health and fight back against some of the most virulent forms of the disease.”
In addition, with CancerIntercept Monitor, physicians are able to supplement more invasive tissue biopsies and scans with liquid biopsies to monitor cancer treatment efficacy, disease progression, and recurrence, continued Plante, adding that CancerIntercept Monitor can also be ordered with personalized Clinical Trial Matching for later stage cancer patients.
iStock/ElementalImaging
“Rising levels of tumor DNA may indicate progression of the cancer before there is clinical or imaging evidence of tumor growth,” said Glenn Braunstein, M.D., chief medical officer of Pathway Genomics. “Our liquid biopsy tests may also detect new mutations that occur over time and signal that the patient is becoming resistant to current therapy.”
Testing can be initiated through the patient's treating physician or through Pathway's online physician referral network.