Whole Genome Testing Used to Guide Breast Cancer Treatment

Whole genome testing has been used to guide tailored treatment against advanced breast cancer in a group of 43 patients. The scientists behind the study say their research is a step on the path towards 'personalised medicine' where individual genetic makeup informs treatment choice.

'For the first time, we have shown that scanning the whole genome can identify both frequent and rare genomic alterations and can be done in clinical practice with large numbers of women', said study leader Dr Fabrice André from the Institut Gustave Roussy in France. 'Until now, genetic testing has only analysed a limited number of genes to select which targeted drugs are suitable for individual patients and many treatment opportunities may be missed'.

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