CancerEssential® Update: Enhanced Gene Analysis for Solid Tumors

March 20, 2025

The updated version of CancerEssential® includes new and expanded gene sets for various tumor types, enabling even more precise molecular analyses to support targeted therapy decisions. Additionally, essential target regions for FGFR2, FGFR3, and MET exon 14 skipping have been extended to enhance the comprehensiveness of fusion detection.

What’s new?

1. Additional gene set for endometrial carcinomas (PAT15):

The new gene set for endometrial carcinomas simplifies the selection of suitable therapeutic targets, supporting more precise and efficient therapy planning.

2. Expanded genetic testing for Talazoparib therapy in prostate cancer (PAT12):

The prostate cancer gene set has been expanded to include the genes ATR, FANCA, MRE11, and NBN. These genes are involved in homologous recombination repair (HRR) and can influence therapy decisions. This expansion allows for a comprehensive assessment of Talazoparib therapy eligibility based on FDA approval for mCRPC with HRR gene mutations.

3. Expanded gene sets for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (PAT04), colorectal carcinomas (PAT02), and gliomas (PAT05):

To optimize therapy recommendations for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), the genes SDHA, SDHB, SDHC, and SDHD have been added. These help detect potential resistance to standard therapies early and identify alternative treatment options. In addition, the gene set for colorectal carcinomas has been expanded to include two additional genes that account for the subtype ‘TMB-high tumors.’ Since the high mutation burden in these tumors arises from a different pathogenic mechanism than in dMMR tumors, this expansion further improves tumor subtype differentiation. The glioma gene set has been expanded by one additional gene, enabling an even more precise molecular characterization of tumors of this type.

4. Extended target regions for FGFR2,FGFR3 and MET exon 14:

To optimize fusion detection, new target regions for the FGFR2 and FGFR3 genes have been added. Rearrangements in these genes are relevant for approved drugs in bladder cancer and cholangiocarcinoma. Additional target regions have also been added for MET exon 14 skipping, which is important for the targeted treatment of NSCLC patients.

Why choose CancerEssential®?

CancerEssential® is a cost-effective, comprehensive gene analysis designed to identify clinically relevant gene mutations in solid tumors. The extensive pathology panel was developed in collaboration with oncologists and pathologists to provide a fast, affordable, and high-quality analysis of key driver mutations across the most common tumor types. By detecting these specific mutations in tumor tissue, CancerEssential® provides actionable insights for selecting approved and targeted therapies. With continuous updates, you stay informed about the latest drug approvals—without the burden of additional research.

Make informed therapy decisions based on the latest scientific data with CancerEssential®.

We are happy to support you in selecting the most suitable diagnostic strategy for your patients. Call us at +49 (0) 7071 565 44 55 or email us at tumor@cegat.com.