The GeneStrat test from Biodesix Inc, Boulder, Colo, is now capable of detecting mutations in the ROS1 and RET genes, in addition to detecting BRAF mutations, EGFR resistance (T790M), EGFR-sensitizing mutations, EML4-ALK fusions, and KRAS mutations.
GeneStrat is a noninvasive blood test that analyzes circulating tumor DNA and RNA. The test provides highly sensitive results in 72 hours for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients.
Physicians can utilize GeneStrat as part of the Biodesix Lung Reflex multiomic liquid biopsy testing strategy, when reflexed to VeriStrat proteomic testing, to identify more aggressive tumor growth and inform likely patient benefit from treatment. In 2016, nearly 80% of physicians who ordered GeneStrat chose to reflex to VeriStrat testing. The VeriStrat test and the genes tested in GeneStrat are covered by Medicare and many private payors.
According to the company, Biodesix Lung Reflex testing offers significant advantages for patients and their physicians. GeneStrat and VeriStrat deliver comprehensive information for physicians to support critical treatment decisions as early as initial diagnosis, and can expedite appropriate treatment for patients. Tissue biopsy sample availability is often limited, and awaiting tumor biomarker results may delay treatment decisions and ultimately affect patient outcomes. Blood testing can also capture mutation information regardless of tumor location or heterogeneity, while tissue testing may miss relevant molecular alterations.
For more information, visit Biodesix.
