Implementation of “clinical sequencing” in cancer genome medicine in Japan

Abstract

In oncology, actionable mutations (alterations) in cancer-associated genes are critical in terms of the selection of therapeutic approaches. Next-generation sequencing of tumor sample DNA (ie, clinical sequencing) can guide clinical management by providing diagnostic or prognostic data, and facilitating the identification of potential treatment regimens, such as molecular-targeted and immune checkpoint blockade therapies. In the USA, a variety of tumor-profiling multiplex gene panels have been developed and implemented for this purpose. In Japan, several academic institutions have now carried out detailed investigations of the feasibility and value of clinical sequencing, and cancer societies have issued consensus clinical practice guidance for next-generation sequencing-based gene panel tests. These efforts will facilitate the implementation of cancer genome medicine in Japan.