• UofL Health’s Brown Cancer Center launched the TSO Comprehensive test.
• The assay analyzes DNA and RNA for effective cancer treatment.
• This test can detect over 500 DNA variants and 24 RNA fusions.
• It requires only a small sample of tumor tissue to operate.
• The technology reduces wait time between biopsy and treatment.

UofL Health Launches Innovative Cancer Testing Facility

UofL Health’s Brown Cancer Center in Louisville, Kentucky, has made a landmark move by becoming the first facility in the United States to provide access to an FDA-approved assay specifically designed for solid tumor testing. This test, known as the Illumina TruSightTM Oncology (TSO) Comprehensive, is conducted on-site at UofL Health’s state-of-the-art Next Generation Sequencing Lab. With its ability to evaluate both the DNA and RNA of tumor samples, the TSO Comprehensive assay stands out by scanning for various cancer mutations, allowing for a more effective matching of patients with the most suitable therapies or available clinical trials.

Advanced Testing Enhances Treatment Decisions

The TSO Comprehensive test can handle sequencing millions of DNA fragments at once, successfully detecting over 500 cancer-related DNA variants and 24 RNA fusions, among other significant biological markers. Dr. Jason Chesney, who heads the Brown Cancer Center, emphasizes that this level of detail from a single test is pivotal in devising personalized therapy plans. Mustafa Al-Kawaaz, M.D., also voiced enthusiasm about offering this advanced tumor profiling solution, which is set to enable faster, more precise therapeutic decisions within the patient care community.

Efficiency in Sample Use and Results

Another key feature of the TSO Comprehensive test is that it only requires a small amount of tumor tissue, making it more efficient. Unlike traditional methods that often necessitate multiple tests to detect different mutations, the TSO Comprehensive employs a single test to capture multiple mutations at once. This not only saves valuable sample material but also reduces costs and expedites the time it takes to get results. According to Emily Volk, M.D., this technology will drastically reduce the time between biopsy and treatment initiation, which is crucial for patient comfort and outcomes.

In summary, UofL Health’s Brown Cancer Center is leading the way with the launch of the TSO Comprehensive assay, the first of its kind in the nation. This innovative test offers a detailed analysis of tumor mutations, facilitating timely and personalized treatment options for cancer patients. The integration of such advanced technology into patient care marks a significant step forward in precision oncology and enhances the overall efficacy of cancer treatment.