All newly diagnosed metastatic CRC (mCRC) patients should be tested for BRAF mutations in congruence with the ESMO guidelines

. BRAF mutations (nearly always V600E) are present in ~8-12% of patients

. BRAF V600E mutations result in a molecularly distinct subpopulation with poor prognosis and poor response to standard treatment options. Thus, it is essential to assess BRAF mutation status to optimise patient management and guide therapeutic decisions before initiating first-line treatment.

The standard approach to assess BRAF mutation in patients with mCRC is using next-generation sequencing (NGS) or real-time PCR-based assays performed on a formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumour tissue sample or via liquid biopsy, only if no tissue is available

. Time to results is 1 to 2 weeks for NGS and 1 to 3 days for PCR-based assay. These molecular techniques have high sensitivity; however, there are several challenges. These include appropriate tumour sampling, prompt material delivery to diagnostic labs, protocol heterogeneity and turnaround time (TAT).

To optimise the heterogeneous pathological and molecular landscape of mCRC, it is paramount that these biomarker tests are ordered by treating oncologists immediately at the time of mCRC diagnosis. Labs must implement accurate and efficient molecular testing in routine diagnostics by considering pre-analytical and analytical factors.

The BRAF test is mandatory at the initial diagnosis of all mCRC, as BRAF is a prognostic marker, and the mutation analysis can guide treatment decisions.

Rapid time to request biomarker tests by oncologists and time to report the results are crucial to prevent unnecessary waiting periods.

A multidisciplinary team (MDT) collaboration with oncologists/surgeons is critical to optimal molecular testing.

We want to learn from you about mCRC BRAF testing in your practice. Take 5 minutes to complete the survey below and share your insights.

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Cervantes A, et al. Ann Oncol. 2023;34(1):10-32

2. Van Custem E, et al. Ann Oncol. 2016;27(8):1386-422

3. Angerilli V, et al. Critical Reviews in Oncol. 2022;172:103647

Due to its clinical relevance, accurate and early diagnosis of BRAF V600E mutation status is critical to inform therapeutic strategy in mCRC. However, the evolving diagnostic landscape highlights the growing need for hospitals and labs to optimise molecular testing for BRAF in mCRC.

Following a successful launch of our podcast series, ‘Better Testing, Better Treatment’, we are excited to announce our second episode is now available to the public!

Episode 2

We are fortunate to invite two experts in the field of breast cancer who share their experiences of using artificial intelligence within their laboratories.

Oncologist, Dr. Elie Rassy, and pathologist, Dr. Magali Lacroix-Triki, from the Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, dive into discussions about the profound impact that AI has brought to breast cancer diagnosis. By listening to this podcast, you will learn about current projects utilizing artificial intelligence, the challenges that AI brings to pathology labs and the future potential of this innovative technology.

Don't forget to listen to the first podcast from the series in full below! 

Episode 1

The first podcast covers the topic of HRD with guest speakers Professor Massimo Barberis, MD, a Pathologist at the European Institute of Clinical Oncology in Milan, Italy, and Professor Domenica Lorusso, a Gynecologist Oncologist at Hospital Policlinico Gemelli in Rome, Italy. These two experts have an intense discussion surrounding their views on HRD and its components.

Diaceutics are excited to announce episode 2 of our new podcast series, 'Better Testing, Better Treatment'!

CE-IVDR: where are we now in molecular testing?

The implementation of the new CE-In Vitro Diagnostics Regulation (IVDR) involves challenges faced by labs that are working within the diagnostic environment. The aim of this event is to get an overview of how IVDR implementation is progressing in different countries, and which are the most relevant challenges from a molecular pathology point of view. Five guest speakers from The Netherlands, France, Spain, Italy, and the UK with experience in the field will share their point of view and discuss the current situation and future perspectives.

Don't miss this opportunity to gain comprehensive insights into CE-IVDR, including the it's challenges. Join us for event 3 in the “Precision medicine in oncology’ series.

Sign up today

Immunotherapy insights: Biomarker testing and multi-disease treatment options

In the first event of this exciting series, key opinion leaders from the precision oncology field shared insights on the state of the art both in terms of biomarker testing and clinical utility of the use of immunotherapy as a multi-disease treatment option. Dr. Luiz Paz-Ares, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, and Dr. Phillipe Taniere, University Hospitals Birmingham, explored across different oncological diseases, the importance of biomarkers such as PD-L1, MMR/MSI, and TMB for immunotherapy response and what are mandatory patient criteria for biomarker testing. 

Liquid biopsy in oncohematology: Ready for clinic?

Event 2 in the series included an illuminating webinar featuring two distinguished experts in the field of oncohematology as they delve into the cutting-edge realm of liquid biopsies, their pivotal role in the detection of minimal residual disease (MRD) and investigate their role in the diagnostics of aggressive B cell lymphoma and multiple myeloma. Guest speakers Dr. Sven Borchmann from the University of Cologne, and Prof. Mattia D'Agostino from the University of Turin will guide participants through liquid biopsy as applied in B cell lymphoma, the profound implications of MRD, and techniques in the context of multiple myeloma and precision medicine. Attendees can participate in interactive sessions and engage in real-time Q&A sessions with the expert speakers, providing a chance to ask questions and gain a deeper insight and understanding of these increasingly relevant topics.

Access previous webinars now

The latest Diaceutics virtual event, “Precision medicine in oncology”, will allow you to join the forefront of cancer testing and treatment, with a series of 8 live webinars, culminating in a full day true-to-life virtual event. During these events, you’ll get exclusive access to clinical insights from top European lab experts.

2:00 - 2:05 : Welcome and introduction of Diaceutics and speakers by Romain Assemat

2.05 - 2.30 : Digital pathology and artificial intelligence : Way to a digitally driven workflow by Pr Sophie Prévot

Pr Sophie Prévot, President of the French Society of Pathology is a pathologist at the Bicêtre Hospital. Pr Prévot has made her laboratory entirely digital since 2019 with the integration of artificial intelligence tools. 

The difficulties in making an accurate diagnosis, the workload in terms of time and the small number of pathologists represent significant problems in laboratory routine. From this perspective, a system based on artificial intelligence could act as a solution or support for the doctor. Digital pathology with the use of high resolution scanners has allowed the creation of integrated systems that allow tissue characteristics to be observed directly from a computer monitor and manual annotations to be inserted for tumor detection. All this has facilitated the development of automatic algorithms based on neural networks for image classification.

This event will aim to provide a basic presentation of digital pathology in pathology laboratories.

Liquid biopsy, as the name suggests, involves the analysis of patient body fluids, primarily blood, to detect biomarkers that can provide valuable insights into disease progression, prognosis, and treatment options. This non-invasive approach has emerged as a game-changer in the world of cancer diagnostics, complementing traditional tissue biopsies.

Liquid biopsy's impact is perhaps most striking in the realm of NSCLC. It has played a pivotal role in identifying specific resistance mechanisms to targeted therapies. NSCLC patients who undergo liquid biopsy testing can benefit from:

- Early Detection of Resistance: Liquid biopsy can identify resistance mutations early in the treatment process, allowing for prompt therapeutic adjustments.

- Improved Treatment Outcomes: By pinpointing resistance mechanisms, physicians can select alternative treatment options, increasing the chances of successful outcomes.

While initially prominent in NSCLC, liquid biopsy is now extending its reach to other cancer types, including breast, ovarian, prostate, and colorectal cancer. Its non-invasive nature and ability to provide comprehensive genetic information make it a valuable tool in these areas as well.

Haemato- Oncology and Minimal Residual Disease (MRD)

In addition to solid tumours, liquid biopsy has made significant strides in the field of haemato-oncology. It is particularly invaluable in detecting minimal residual disease (MRD), which refers to the small number of cancer cells that may remain in the body after treatment. Liquid biopsy offers a highly sensitive method for tracking MRD, allowing for more precise monitoring and treatment adjustments.

In recognition of the transformative power of liquid biopsy in precision medicine diagnostics, we are excited to announce the launch of Diaceutics LBx Month. This initiative is designed to complement Lung Cancer Awareness Month and raise awareness about the importance of diagnostic testing in cancer care. Throughout this month, we will host a range of events, webinars, and educational sessions to highlight the advancements in liquid biopsy technology and its role in improving patient outcomes.

As we at Diaceutics celebrate international lung cancer awareness this month, let us also celebrate the remarkable progress in cancer diagnostics and treatment brought about by liquid biopsy. This non-invasive method has expanded beyond NSCLC and is now a cornerstone of precision medicine across various cancer types. With the ongoing advancements in this field, the future of cancer care is brighter than ever, offering patients hope and personalised treatment options like never before. To raise awareness of this month, Diaceutics are providing a range of events and materials to promote liquid biopsy and it’s benefits to cancer patients. Please click the link below to find out more about some of the exciting events scheduled to celebrate liquid biopsy.

Find out more

For more information, visit our DXRX platforms and social media channels to be kept up to date with upcoming liquid biopsy events.

In this month of international lung cancer awareness, Diaceutics would like to shed light on the remarkable impact of diagnostic testing on the cancer patient journey. One of the pivotal advancements in this field is the progressive use of liquid biopsy (LBx), a non-invasive and innovative method that has revolutionised precision medicine diagnostics. Liquid biopsy is changing the landscape of cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly in the context of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), and its expanding applications in other areas such as breast, ovarian, prostate, and colorectal cancer.

All articles

The clinical significance of BRAF V600E testing in metastatic colorectal cancer

The Better Testing, Better Treatment Podcast Episode 2

Precision medicine in oncology

Digital pathology and artificial intelligence : The path to a digitally driven workflow

The Transformative Role of Liquid Biopsy in Precision Medicine Diagnostics