GC Genome Corporation, a leader in genomic diagnostics, has just published a study in Radiation Oncology Journal proving the effectiveness of cell-free DNA monitoring to predict treatment response and detect minimal residual disease after radiation therapy.
This study was conducted in collaboration with Samsung Medical Center and Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine and adds to the growing body of evidence that the I-score, GC Genome’s tool for calculating genomic instabilities, can be utilized to effectively predict response to treatment in various solid tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma, esophageal cancer, and pancreatic adenocarcinoma.
A recent study investigated 23 plasma samples from cancer patients with various lung, esophageal, and head and neck cancers, and compared them to 358 healthy individuals.
Using a technique known as Low-coverage whole genome sequencing (LC-WGS) and the I-score, which evaluates chromosomal alterations across the genome, the researchers observed changes in the cfDNA of the cancer patients at different points in their radiation therapy. These points included before the start of radiation, one week after the commencement of radiation, and one month after the completion of the therapy.
Results demonstrated that the pretreatment I-score was significantly higher in larger tumors, with a positive correlation between the gross tumor volume and the baseline I-score. Interestingly, minimal residual disease following radiation therapy was detected earlier via cfDNA than through imaging studies.
Moreover, serial monitoring of the I-score in the post-treatment 4 months case revealed that the change in I-score occurred before the progression of the disease was detectable through imaging studies.
This study has far-reaching implications for the field of oncology, especially for those battling lung, esophageal, and head and neck cancer. GC Genome’s CEO, Dr. Chang-Seok Ki, MD, notes that further research is underway to perfect the use of I-scores in predicting radiation response. The potential for cfDNA I-score to be used as a monitoring tool for cancer treatment is undeniable, and will continue to be a focus of research moving forward.
About GC Genome
GC Genome is transforming the way we care for ourselves and our loved ones. Founded in 2013, the company is a subsidiary of the renowned GC group healthcare organization and is devoted to connecting the care and cure to the world through its comprehensive range of genetic diagnosis services for Oncology, Pre & Neonatal, Rare Diseases, and Health Check-ups.
What sets GC Genome apart from the rest is its commitment to research and development and its CAP-accredited laboratory. The company has partnered with major hospitals and universities to expand its test volumes, and its growth trajectory is nothing short of remarkable. With GC Genome, you can be assured of personalized treatment for a longer and healthier life.