NeoGenomics, Inc., a leading provider of cancer-focused genetic and molecular testing services, has launched 23 new and innovative NeoTYPE cancer profiles based on next-generation sequencing (NGS).  

These new advanced cancer-profiling tools offer oncologists and pathologists a more targeted and comprehensive ability to tailor cancer testing to an individual patient's needs than has ever been available before.

Next-generation sequencing is an advanced molecular testing approach that is used to more precisely detect a variety of mutations using smaller amounts of tissue.  As a result, NeoGenomics will accept fine needle aspirate and other minute samples for testing.

In March, NeoGenomics announced that it was the first to offer plasma-based Next-generation tests for haematologic neoplasms.  This testing can allow patients to avoid a bone marrow biopsy, and allow clinicians to monitor tumor load and detect emerging subclones.  NeoTYPE plasma-based testing using NGS is now available for AML Prognostic, CLL Prognostic, JMML, Lymphoma, MDS/CMML, MPN, and a comprehensive, 54-gene Myeloid Disorders Profile.   

Similarly, the NeoTYPE solid tumor tests are designed to provide precise and complete coverage of "actionable" molecular abnormalities found specifically in the tested tumor.  NeoTYPE solid tumour cancer testing is available for brain, breast, cervix, colorectal, endometrial, esophageal, gastrointestinal stromal (GIST), lung, melanoma, ovarian, soft tissue, thyroid, and other solid tumours.

Douglas VanOort, the company's chairman and CEO, said "Tumour profiling is the key to precision medicine, and we are eager to put next-generation sequencing tools into the hands of our physician clients.  We have worked hard to develop an innovative and unique approach, using multiple technologies, plasma testing, expert result interpretation and reporting, and other tools to make cancer testing efficient for our health care system and informative for physicians and patients.  Our company considers it a privilege to provide the most advanced tools available for the very personalized treatment of a patient's cancer."

Dr Maher Albitar, the company's chief medical officer and director of research and development, commented, "These new profiles are designed to provide information that clinicians can utilize in the management of their patients. They provide information on clinical behavior, prognosis, and potential response to currently approved drugs and investigational therapies undergoing clinical trials. While each profile covers, on average, less than 20 different actionable molecular abnormalities, physicians can customize each profile and add additional genes from a list of validated genes.  We believe that these small targeted profiles of driver genes are the most clinically justifiable approach to cancer testing given the targeted drugs that are currently available."  

NeoGenomics, Inc. is a high-complexity CLIA-certified clinical laboratory that specializes in cancer genetics testing, the fastest growing segment of the laboratory industry.