Foundation Medicine, Inc. has introduced FoundationOne®RNA, a groundbreaking tissue-based RNA sequencing test designed to detect cancer-related fusions across a panel of 318 genes. This innovative test, now available for clinical use in the United States, expands Foundation Medicine’s suite of high-quality genomic profiling services. It complements their existing offerings, including FoundationOne®Liquid CDx for blood-based comprehensive genomic profiling and FoundationOne®Heme for hematological malignancies.
FoundationOne RNA fills a crucial gap in cancer diagnostics by enabling precise detection of fusions in various solid tumors, particularly in cancers like non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), pancreatic cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, sarcoma, thyroid cancer, and bladder cancer. Unlike DNA sequencing alone, RNA sequencing offers an additional layer of sophistication in fusion detection, enhancing physicians’ ability to make informed treatment decisions.
Dr. Mia Levy, Chief Medical Officer at Foundation Medicine, underscores the significance of RNA sequencing, emphasizing its role in detecting actionable fusions, especially in the context of emerging targeted therapies. By offering both DNA and RNA testing options, Foundation Medicine aims to provide physicians and researchers with comprehensive tools for fusion detection, thereby enhancing confidence in patient care and research outcomes.
Results from FoundationOne RNA and FoundationOne CDx, Foundation Medicine’s tissue-based DNA sequencing test, are integrated into a single comprehensive report. This consolidated report equips physicians with clinically actionable insights, including detected alterations, potential therapeutic options, and available clinical trials, enabling personalized treatment selection for each patient.
Experts in the field, such as Dr. Courtney Granville from GO2 for Lung Cancer, recognize the value of incorporating RNA testing into treatment planning, particularly for lung cancer patients. The addition of FoundationOne RNA to Foundation Medicine’s portfolio enhances the depth of information available to physicians, thereby improving patient care outcomes.
Foundation Medicine employs a coextraction method for FoundationOne CDx, allowing simultaneous isolation of DNA and RNA from a single sample. This approach minimizes tissue volume requirements without compromising turnaround time, ensuring efficient and reliable testing processes.
Foundation Medicine’s commitment to advancing precision oncology is evident through its innovative testing solutions. FoundationOne RNA, along with their other offerings, underscores their dedication to providing essential tools for cancer diagnosis, treatment selection, and research endeavors, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for patients worldwide.
