Cancer genetic testing is an advanced biomedical technique that allows for the sequencing of cancer genomes. Its invention and subsequent use have had a major impact on cancer treatment and prevention. Genetic tests can also identify mutations that play a role in cancer development. This information can, in turn, help providers make more informed decisions about their care, including identifying risk factors and recommending diagnostic or preventive measures. Keep reading to learn about the innovative types of cancer genetic testing available:
1. Chromosomal tests
This newly researched integrated genetic/epigenetic DNA-sequencing protocol is called MultiMMR (multi-molecular methylation and epigenetic DNA sequencing). The test uses a targeted multiplex DNA sample that includes a hairpin-containing promoter and an internal ribosomal binding site (IRBS), which is subsequently amplified. After the DNA amplification, expression profiling of five gene-specific test panels, including those listed above, is performed by high throughput technology. These types of tumor suppressor genes can be detected in cancer cells.
2. Gene expression tests
To perform a gene expression test, a cell line is used. This type of testing involves measuring levels of specific proteins in cancer cells from patients. This is also referred to as an RNA-sequencing test or a microarray analysis test. After the tissue sample is processed, it will be studied using a microarray or RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Knowing what genes are expressed in cancer cells can allow doctors to treat your cancer better and determine if you will respond to particular treatment options.
3. Newborn screening
Newborn screening is used for genetic disorders and for rare or inherited. The purpose of newborn screening is to identify children with genetic disorders as early as possible so that treatment can be started or improved. Healthcare professionals administer these genetic tests, and the information gathered is sent to the state department that performs the tests.
4. Germline testing
This testing is typically done on cancer cells from patients but is also available for second-generation and third-generation family members. Germline testing can detect these mutations before they cause changes in the DNA. More than 80 percent of genetic mutations that cause cancer occur in the germ line. It can generally detect changes that are present in both copies of a gene, but it is not possible to detect changes that are present in just one copy. Mutations in the germ line can be passed from generation to generation without causing symptoms. Such mutations may happen randomly or be passed down because they were inherited from a parent who carried the mutation.
5. Molecular tests
This type of genetic test requires a gene expression profile to be analyzed. Most molecular genetic tests are designed to identify the most common mutations or to screen for cancer-causing variants. There are two major types of molecular cancer tests. The first type is the invasive test, which detects cancer-causing mutations by testing tumor DNA in a patient. The second type is the noninvasive test, which measures levels of specific proteins in cancer samples or a patient’s blood or saliva samples.
Cancer genetic testing is a great tool for understanding the risk of cancer. However, it cannot be used to diagnose cancer or determine prognosis. Many tests and procedures to detect cancer, such as chest x-rays and mammograms, are currently widely used by doctors. These tests can help diagnose the presence or extent of tumors after they have developed, but they cannot identify cancer before it develops.