NeoGenomics’ Newly Published Study Underscores Potential of ctDNA as a Predictive Tool for Monitoring Patients with High-Risk Melanoma
Source: BusinessWire, December 2024
Many earlier ctDNA studies in melanoma utilized technologies that target a narrow spectrum of recurrent driver alterations, an approach that limits application in patients with tumors lacking BRAF and NRAS mutations. In contrast, the study successfully identified ctDNA in patients with tumors lacking BRAF and NRAS mutations, suggesting that this tumor-informed approach may be informative in a wider range of patients.
“There is an urgent need for dependable biomarkers to define recurrence risk and identify melanoma patients who would benefit most from adjuvant treatment, as no reliable criteria currently exist to guide therapy selection,” said Warren Stone, Chief Commercial Officer at NeoGenomics. “This study highlights the value of ctDNA in addressing this gap and provides a foundation for future research and integration into routine clinical care, aiming to improve patient outcomes.”
This study is an example of the potential applications of ctDNA for the implementation of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at improving the care of cancer patients, and findings have led to the development of the CLEAR-Me trial, an interception study to detect and clear MRD in patients with high-risk melanoma (NCT06319196).