Pelotonia-Supported Genomic Sequencing ProvidesTargeted Cancer Therapies

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August 5, 2014 7:10 am

Jared Gordon thought he had a bad cold. But after he couldn’t kick the sickness for a month, he went to thedoctor for tests that revealed the true source of his prolonged illness: stage 4 lung cancer.

The tumor had spread to the lining of his lungs and surrounding lymph nodes. The 51-year-old singlefather of three was told he had six months to live.

But Gordon decided to get a second opinion at the OSUCCC – James, where the lung cancer team offersnext generation genomic sequencing of lung tumors. Funded in part by Pelotonia – an annual grassrootsbicycle tour that raises millions of dollars for cancer research at Ohio State – next generation genomicsequencing is now considered part of the standard of care for stage 4 lung cancer patients.

This technology allows pathologists to analyze 50-plus genes in DNA extracted from a tumor biopsy forparticular genetic mutations. Previous technology required pathologists to analyze one mutation per tissuesample. This second-generation genome sequencing assesses more than 2,500 mutations in a singlereaction.

Gordon’s testing revealed a specific genetic mutation that allowed his treatment team to prescribe atherapy targeted to his unique cancer. Instead of traditional IV chemotherapy, he received an oral therapythat targets his tumor’s specific characteristics. He takes two pills per day, and his tumor has shrunk 60percent since he began treatment. Now he is enrolled in a clinical study of an investigational IV medicationwith the goal of enhancing his existing oral targeted therapy.

Gordon’s story, like so many others’ stories, affirms that there is no routine cancer, so treatment cannot be

“routine” either. Knowing which mutations are present in lung tumors can help oncologists tailor a patient’streatment to the unique genetic features of his or her cancer cells. The knowledge can also help in thedevelopment of new drugs that target previously unrecognized gene mutations in lung tumors.

Due to the support received from Pelotonia, researchers at the OSUCCC – James are using the ScicloneNext Generation Sequencing Workstation to robotically prepare batches of cancer samples for highthroughput genome sequencing. Genome sequencing reveals how cancer hijacks normal cell functions viamutations and other structural changes in DNA and RNA. The resulting collection of DNA fragments iscalled a sequencing library. Done manually by researchers, this process can be tedious and requiremassive manpower. But the high-throughput next generation sequencing robotic system can prepare up to96 samples at one time while ensuring consistency and freeing lab personnel for other tasks.

To support cancer research at the OSUCCC – James and improve the lives of patients like Jared Gordon,ride, donate or volunteer for Pelotonia by visiting http://www.pelotonia.org.