Advances in cancer genomics and precision oncology.

Abstract

Background: Next-generation sequencing has revolutionized genome science over the last two decades. Indeed, the wealth of sequence information on our genome has deepened our understanding on cancer. Cancer is a genetic disease caused by genetic or epigenetic alternations that affect the expression of genes that control cell functions, particularly cell growth and division. Utilization of next-generation sequencing in cancer gene panels has enabled the identification of actionable gene alterations in cancer patients to guide personalized precision medicine.

Objective: The aim is to provide information that can identify actionable gene alterations, enabling personalized precision medicine for cancer patients.

Results & discussion: Equipped with next-generation sequencing techniques, international collaboration programs on cancer genomics have identified numerous mutations, gene fusions, microsatellite variations, copy number variations, and epigenetics changes that promote the transformation of normal cells into tumors. Cancer classification has traditionally been based on cell type or tissue-of-origin and the morphological characteristics of the cancer. However, interactive genomic analyses have currently reclassified cancers based on systemic molecular-based taxonomy. Although all cancer-causing genes and mechanisms have yet to be completely understood or identified, personalized or precision medicine is now currently possible for some forms of cancer. Unlike the "one-size-fits-all" approach of traditional medicine, precision medicine allows for customized or personalized treatment based on genomic information.

Conclusion: Despite the availability of numerous cancer gene panels, technological innovation in genomics and expansion of knowledge on the cancer genome will allow precision oncology to manage even more types of cancers.