Next-Generation Sequencing and Targeted Therapies
For years, scientists have been searching for better ways to treat cancer. Next-generation sequencing and other targeted therapies are among the new cancer treatment breakthroughs that they have discovered. Scientific and technological advances in genomics are revolutionizing cancer treatment and how patients respond. Doctors will soon be able to provide a more personalized approach to each patient’s cancer based on the results of cancer screenings, genetic counseling and testing, genomic testing and the use of the latest cancer treatments including targeted therapies.
At SCRI Oncology Partners our physicians have experience contributing to the cancer research that has helped advance new cancer therapies like these and other innovative treatments. Your cancer care team will work closely with you to navigate your treatment options, answer your questions and help you manage your treatment. While cancer is complex, you are in expert hands.
What is a targeted therapy?
Simply put, a targeted therapy is a kind of cancer treatment that uses drugs to specifically target cancer cells without affecting healthy cells. Because there are many different types of cancer, and even the same cancer cells can behave differently from one person to another, such treatments require a deep understanding of the cancer cells being targeted.
This is where the testing comes in. Genomic testing (not to be confused with genetic testing) is done on cancerous tissue to provide information on how the tumor might behave. Genomic testing can be performed on both biopsied tissue and on tissue from an entire cancerous tumor that has been removed. By looking at the genetic makeup of the cancer, doctors are able to get a better idea of how the cancer may act, and whether it is utilizing specific proteins or enzymes that may be able to be targeted by treatment.
Types of Targeted Therapy
Groundbreaking therapies and innovative treatments
Cancers We Treat
Find out more about the cancers and disorders targeted therapy treats
Next-Generation Sequencing FAQs
Get answers to commonly asked questions about these targeted therapies
What is genetic testing?
On the other side of genomic testing is genetic testing. Genetic testing aims to identify inherited gene mutations that are known to increase a person’s risk of developing cancer.
Mutations are changes that occur in cells that affect the way they grow and divide. Sometimes mutations can lead to the development of cancer. Genetic testing is done using a small sample of body fluid or tissue, most commonly blood, saliva, cheek cells or skin cells.
With genetic testing, you and your physician can:
- Understand your risk for certain cancers
- Develop prevention strategies
- Get the correct screenings
- Create a more personalized treatment plan if you are diagnosed
- Help other family members understand if they are also at risk and what testing may be available for them
What is next-generation sequencing?
Next-generation sequencing is a type of test on your tumor, also called precision or personalized medicine, and helps us to approach cancer treatment based on the genetic profile of the patient’s specific disease. Most notably, cancer cells from a tissue biopsy or a blood specimen are evaluated for abnormalities (also known as mutations) that cause cancer and can serve as targets to treat cancer to achieve the best outcome for a patient.
Next-Generation Sequencing, also known as NGS or sometimes as massively parallel sequencing, is a tool used by oncologists to analyze tissue samples for mutations and biomarkers very quickly by testing many genes of a cancer simultaneously – potentially saving time, money and the need for additional tissue samples.
If an actionable mutation is identified, a treatment can be designed to target the cancer. This targeted therapy attacks only the cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells so side effects are typically less than with standard chemotherapy.
Next-generation sequencing can be used to:
- Identify those at high-risk for cancer
- Find cancers at an early stage
- Make a more accurate diagnosis
- Detect any mutations that may be driving cancer growth
- Determine best treatment options
- Evaluate how treatment is working
Types of cancer that use next-generation sequencing or targeted therapies
While targeted therapies are not used for every type of cancer, research is ongoing. Currently, some of the most common cancers where targeted therapies like next-generation sequencing is used to help with treatment decisions include:
- Breast
- Colorectal
- Esophageal
- Leukemia
- Lung
- Lymphoma
- Melanoma
- Ovarian
- Stomach
- Thyroid
Targeted therapy FAQs
Our additional treatments
Additional resources for patients on next-generation sequencing and targeted therapies
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Contact Us
Whether you are newly diagnosed, previously treated or seeking additional care or research options, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Us
Whether you are newly diagnosed, previously treated or seeking additional care or research options, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Contact Us
Whether you are newly diagnosed, previously treated or seeking additional care or research options, we are here to support you every step of the way.