Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS): A Simple Guide to Decoding Your Cancer

What Is Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)?

Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a powerful technology that reads the genetic blueprint of your cancer—identifying the specific mutations, markers, and vulnerabilities that make your tumor unique.

Think of it as a high-tech detective that looks at hundreds of clues at once to create a complete picture of your cancer.

How Is NGS Different from Traditional Testing?

Traditional Testing	NGS
Tests 1–5 genes at a time	Tests hundreds of genes at once
May miss rare mutations	Captures all mutations
Multiple biopsies may be needed	One sample gives complete picture
Slower results	Faster turnaround

How NGS Works: A Simple Analogy

Imagine your cancer is a book with many chapters. Traditional testing reads one page at a time. NGS reads the entire book at once—finding every typo, missing page, or hidden message that matters.

The NGS Process in 4 Steps

Step	What Happens
1. Sample Collection	A small piece of tumor (biopsy) or a simple blood draw (liquid biopsy) is taken
2. DNA Extraction	The genetic material is extracted from your cancer cells
3. Sequencing	Advanced machines read hundreds of genes simultaneously
4. Analysis	Specialists interpret the results to find actionable mutations

What NGS Reveals About Your Cancer

NGS identifies:

✅ Driver Mutations – The genetic changes that cause cancer to grow
✅ Targetable Mutations – Genes that can be treated with precision drugs
✅ Resistance Mutations – Why cancer stopped responding to treatment
✅ Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB) – How many mutations your cancer has (helps predict immunotherapy response)
✅ MSI Status – Whether your cancer may respond to certain immunotherapies
✅ Hereditary Mutations – Genetic changes you inherited that increase cancer risk

Liquid Biopsy: A Non-Invasive Option

NGS can be performed on a simple blood draw (liquid biopsy), which:

✅ Avoids invasive tissue biopsy
✅ Captures tumor DNA circulating in the blood
✅ Monitors treatment response in real-time
✅ Detects emerging resistance early
✅ Ideal for patients who cannot undergo tissue biopsy

What Cancers Can Benefit from NGS?

Cancer Type	What NGS Reveals
Lung Cancer	EGFR, ALK, ROS1, RET, MET, KRAS, NTRK, TMB
Breast Cancer	HER2, BRCA1/2, PIK3CA, ESR1, MSI
Colorectal Cancer	RAS, BRAF, MSI, NTRK, HER2
Prostate Cancer	BRCA1/2, ATM, MSI, AR mutations
Ovarian Cancer	BRCA1/2, MSI, HRD
Melanoma	BRAF, NRAS, c-KIT, TMB
Blood Cancers	FLT3, IDH1/2, KMT2A, and many others
Pancreatic Cancer	KRAS, BRCA, MSI, NTRK

Benefits of NGS

✅ Comprehensive – Hundreds of genes tested at once
✅ Fast – Results in days to weeks
✅ Actionable – Guides targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and clinical trial options
✅ Non-Invasive Option – Liquid biopsy available
✅ Cost-Effective – Avoids ineffective treatments
✅ Personalized – Treatment designed around YOUR cancer’s unique genetics

Makati

Phone Number

Send Your Mail