The test uses a new approach to identify signs of cancer recurrence with faster result times for healthcare providers and patients.
Foundation Medicine, a Roche company, launched FoundationOne MRD, a molecular residual disease (MRD) test designed to detect signs of cancer recurrence by combining the detection of structural variants with digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
The technology aims to provide sensitive and specific detection with faster turnaround times. Healthcare providers can expect the personalized tumor fingerprint and initial blood test results within two to three weeks of sample receipt. Subsequent blood test results are anticipated within one to three days, the company says.
This launch follows the acquisition of SAGA Diagnostics by Roche. The MRD offering is currently covered by Medicare for monitoring cancer recurrence in patients with early-stage breast cancer across all subtypes, with plans for a global launch, according to the release.
“FoundationOne MRD represents the next bold step in our mission to transform cancer care throughout a patient’s experience,” says Dan Malarek, CEO of Foundation Medicine, in a release. “FoundationOne MRD offers healthcare providers and patients a powerful solution leveraging a proprietary combination of whole genome sequencing and digital PCR to reliably detect and monitor structural variants. With our deep expertise, we will incorporate FoundationOne MRD into our comprehensive portfolio to bring answers to even more people.”
The tool is intended to help healthcare providers identify disease recurrence earlier, select therapies, and monitor how patients respond to treatment over time, according to a release from Foundation Medicine.
