Latest news with #MRD
Medscape
a day ago
- Health
- Medscape
Can New Biomarker Help Identify High-Risk DLBCL Patients?
For patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), the detection of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) following first-line treatment is independently predictive of disease recurrence and overall survival over 2 years, suggesting important prognostic value of the biomarker to improve upon standard assessment with PET-CT imaging. 'We demonstrated the prognostic value of ctDNA MRD [minimal residual disease] in first-line DLBCL cell patients [and that] ctDNA MRD provides independent evidence of residual disease beyond PET-CT,' said first author Steven Wang, MD, of Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands, in presenting the findings at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting. 'These results support the integration of ctDNA MRD as a standard component of response evaluation in first-line DLBCL treatment,' he said. The prognosis for long-term outcomes in DLBCL currently relies on PET-CT; however, key challenges with the approach include sometimes suboptimal sensitivity and specificity, with the potential to miss microscopic residual disease. Liquid biopsy-based analysis of ctDNA, increasingly used in other cancers, meanwhile offers a radiation-free, non-invasive method for the assessment and monitoring of DLBCL. To further investigate the biomarker's prognostic benefits in DLBCL in a prospective context, Wang and colleagues evaluated data on 160 patients at more than 50 centers in the Netherlands and Belgium in the HOVON-902 trial. Of the patients, most (79%) had stage 3 or 4 disease. All patients had been treated with curative-intent first-line therapy, with either R-CHOP or DA-EPOCH-R chemotherapy regimens. In the assessment of ctDNA MRD, the investigators utilized the phased variant (PV) enrichment and detection sequencing (PhasED-Seq) assay, which targets unique 'phased variant' alterations, or multiple mutations on the same DNA molecule. The design boosts the assay's sensitivity compared with other tests, which can have limitations such as error profiles of single nucleotide variants (SNVs). Among the patients, most (90%) had DLBCL, with 9% having high-grade B-cell lymphoma and 1% with primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma. In terms of the distribution of International Prognostic Index (IPI) risk level, 22% were low-risk, 29% low-intermediate risk, 27% high-intermediate risk, and 22% at high-risk. Patients' median age was 67.5 years. With 31 months of median follow-up in the cohort overall, the 24-month rates of progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were 74% and 86%, respectively. The rates of PFS after 3 years were substantially higher for those who were MRD-negative at the end of treatment compared with those who were MRD-positive (85% vs 15%, respectively; hazard ratio [HR] 11.03; P < .0001), and 3-year rates of OS were also higher (92% vs 41%; HR, 7.38; P < .0001). The findings show that 'end-of-treatment ctDNA MRD is strongly prognostic for PFS and OS,' Wang said. Higher cancer stage and IPI risk were associated with MRD positivity (both P < .05), and ctDNA was the most strongly prognostic of PFS (HR, 11.03), compared with end-of-treatment PET-CT results (HR, 5.31) or IPI level of risk (HR, 1.61). Of patients who did not have a complete response based on PET results, MRD-positivity was likewise significantly prognostic for worse PFS at 3 years (PFS 4%) compared with those who were MRD-negative (PFS 64%), importantly suggesting the ability of MRD to adjudicate imaging results (HR for PFS, 6.78; P < .0001). 'End of treatment ctDNA MRD-positivity in patients without complete response have especially poor outcomes,' Wang noted. All of the patients who did not achieve a complete molecular response and remained MRD-positive experienced a relapse. The prognostic accuracy of ctDNA-MRD status was observed across subgroups, including based on the source of baseline sample (tumor vs plasma), best clinical response, IPI, sex, lactate dehydrogenase, stage, or extranodal disease. The researchers also examined how ctDNA MRD status at the end of treatment correlated with the timing of response, and they found that 80% of patients who relapsed within a year of treatment had positive ctDNA MRD at the end of treatment, while only 22% of patients who relapsed after the first 12 months of first-line therapy had positive MRD. 'This distinction is important as early relapsers might be eligible for CAR T-cell therapy, and this demonstrates that end of treatment ctDNA MRD can reliably predict early relapses; however, long late relapses might require longitudinal MRD monitoring,' Wang explained. 'These data demonstrate the robust prognostic value of ctDNA MRD by PhasED-Seq in first-line DLBCL patients,' Wang said. ctDNA Risk-Stratification Benefits Important Discussing the research at the meeting, Mark Roschewski, MD, of the National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, agreed that results on the timing of events were notably important. 'Now we can have a better understanding of when these events get captured [on ctDNA testing] and what we saw is that mostly these are early events,' said Roschewski, who recently co-authored a review of ctDNA as measurable residual disease in aggressive B-cell lymphoma. Roschewski noted that the benefits of ctDNA are reflected in changes in National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Guidelines, which indicate that ctDNA, using a sufficient test — such as PhasED Seq — does appear to be suitable as an alternative to invasive tissue biopsies for positive PET scans. However, the most important thing that the research shows — which validates other findings — is that 'these tests can actually risk-stratify patients who have positive as well as negative PET scans, improving upon our current definition of remission,' Roschewski added. Ultimately, the findings show that 'ultrasensitive ctDNA at the end of frontline therapy for large B-cell lymphoma is the most precise tool to define remission,' he said. Not Ready for Prime Time? However, for all of its promising benefits, a key concern expressed in the Q&A portion of the session was whether ctDNA could indeed be relied upon to replace a tissue biopsy in real-world practice. For instance, while a positive PET scan and positive ctDNA MRD result could likely give clinicians confidence in moving ahead with second-line therapy, the approach may be less clear if a patient is PET-negative but MRD-positive. 'What I worry about is that [ctDNA] is prognostic, but not predictive, and with a relatively small dataset in this study, what are the implications in terms of overtreatment in that kind of situation?' one audience member noted. 'This is an important point,' responded Roschewski. 'However, we should recognize that with the way things are done now, our PET scans have a positive predictive value of about 50%,' he said. 'One of the concerns, and we see it in the data, is that these patients with a positive PET scan are getting second-line therapy when they don't even have any active disease.' 'So, this is something that is already happening,' he explained. Guidelines in such situations suggest either repeating the PET scan or the biopsy, hence delaying therapy. 'So, a negative ctDNA test could help you get information sooner,' Roschewski said. 'But would it improve patient outcomes?' the audience member pressed, getting to the issue of clinical utility. 'That's something we don't have data on yet,' Roschewski conceded. 'I completely agree that this may not be ready for general clinical care without that data, but it may be fine in the context of a clinical trial for now.' Roschewski noted that the good news is that 'at least three clinical trials' are currently being planned to address the issues. He noted that 'we are able to [use this] in other hemolytic malignancies, but we have not gotten there yet [with DLBCL] and we need prospective trials to tell us what to do.' The encouraging news, however, is 'if we see success here, there is no reason to stop at large cell lymphoma. There are other curable lymphomas that we would like to test this in, and I think this could be a domino effect in which we start thinking about this all across therapies for a bunch of different lymphomas,' Roschewski said. ctDNA Benefits in Early Disease Assessment Anticipated Jane N. Winter, MD, professor of medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, agreed that, with the data showing that ct-DNA is a powerful predictor of clinical outcome and can identify patients at high risk of relapse, 'the big question is how we should use this information.' For instance, 'how important is it to identify refractory disease immediately at the end-of-treatment?' she said in an interview. 'I'm hopeful that ctDNA kinetics early in the course of therapy can help us identify patients for escalation of therapy,' said Winter, a past president of the American Society of Hematology. 'Similarly, we might be able to use ctDNA to deescalate or abbreviate therapy.' Ultimately, the results underscore that 'ctDNA at the end of treatment is a powerful predictor of progression/relapse,' Winter said. 'I'm very interested in using ctDNA as part of an early disease assessment.'
Scoop
3 days ago
- Business
- Scoop
Minister Waneoroa Opens CDF Governance Workshop For Constituency Officers In Honiara
Press Release – Solomon Islands MRD The workshop is one of the key priority activities under MRD annual work plan for this year with the sole objective to; capacitate constituency officers with foundational knowledge on the CDF Act 2023 and the CDF Governance Framework. The Minister for the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), Honourable Member of Parliament Daniel Waneoroa this morning officially opens the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Governance Training workshop and Program Implementation, welcoming 150 Constituency officers and 50 Constituency Development Committee (CDC) Secretaries members to the 4-days sessions in Honiara. The workshop is one of the key priority activities under MRD annual work plan for this year with the sole objective to; capacitate constituency officers with foundational knowledge on the CDF Act 2023 and the CDF Governance Framework. In his official remarks, Hon. Minister Waneoroa said, that, as the Minister responsible for the Ministry, he has the biggest task of overseeing and ensuring the delivery of the SIG largest development budget and its projects under the Constituency Program. 'This is a task that I will ensure we all work together to achieve. You all present here today play a major role to achieving and successfully deliver this program. 'As I alluded to in my response to the Speech from the Throne in the current Parliament meeting, this workshop and other activities related to the national Government's policy will guide the MRD's work program for this year and the coming ones,' Hon. Minister Waneoroa emphasized. The minister outlined that under the GNUT Policy Statement and specific to the Section 8.3 on the Resource Sector, MRD is mandated to work on the following policy areas: • Strengthen processes to improve accountability and transparency in administering CDF funds to ensure compliance with CDF Act 2023 and Public Finance Management Act and Regulations; • Promote and utilize constituency funds to decentralize development activities and improve rural livelihood and services; • Review and implement policies and legislation to strengthen constituency development and services; • Prioritize the establishments of Constituency Development Growth Centers (CDGC) in constituencies to decentralize development activities and provide government services to rural areas; and • Implement relevant organizational and functional restructuring within the ministry to align with relevant provisions of the CDF Act 2023. Hon. Minister Waneoroa told the participating officers that the introduction of the CDF Act 2023 necessitates the importance of building our capacities to work on and familiarise ourselves with the changes brought about both in the legislative and administrative aspects of our program. 'Being strategic within this new legal framework as a Ministry and making ourselves relevant in the whole of the government system is important. Thus, everything that we do today either through this workshop or other community-based trainings and administrative guidelines provided by MRD is important for our area of work and to achieving the policy directions of the national government.' Hon. Minister Waneoroa said that 'capacity development for all constituency officers in the critical areas required to improve effective and efficient service delivery in the rural communities will be prioritised for all constituency officers.' The training workshop is purposely designed to achieve the following key outcomes: • Participants will be able to explain the key provisions of the CDF Act 2023 and how it governs constituency development, ensuring compliance with legal and accountability requirements. • participate in the review of the draft of the CDF Act 2023 Regulations and provide informed feedback to ensure that constituency perspectives are incorporated into the final document. • broaden the understanding in the structure, roles, and responsibilities of the Constituency Development Committee (CDC) under the CDF Act 2023 and apply this knowledge in constituency governance. • Participants will be able to identify and use the mandatory templates and the development of constituency plans and reports. • Briefed on the implementation guidelines for PRC RSDP Phase Two and other related future matters on this funding. • Be able to design and implement effective civic-awareness initiatives and communications guideline and methods to improve public understanding of the CDF program and its regulatory framework. 'My good officers, as you go through the various topics of training over the next 4 days, I appeal to you to make good use of this opportunity to learn as much as you can. 'I hope that through this workshop you will develop skills and acquire knowledge which will support you to deliver your work more productively with our constituents and for our rural people,' Hon. Minister Waneoroa said. He thanked everyone for making all efforts to attend this important training and also conveyed well wishes to everyone for a successful training.
Scoop
3 days ago
- Politics
- Scoop
Minister Waneoroa Opens CDF Governance Workshop For Constituency Officers In Honiara
The Minister for the Ministry of Rural Development (MRD), Honourable Member of Parliament Daniel Waneoroa this morning officially opens the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) Governance Training workshop and Program Implementation, welcoming 150 Constituency officers and 50 Constituency Development Committee (CDC) Secretaries members to the 4-days sessions in Honiara. The workshop is one of the key priority activities under MRD annual work plan for this year with the sole objective to; capacitate constituency officers with foundational knowledge on the CDF Act 2023 and the CDF Governance Framework. In his official remarks, Hon. Minister Waneoroa said, that, as the Minister responsible for the Ministry, he has the biggest task of overseeing and ensuring the delivery of the SIG largest development budget and its projects under the Constituency Program. 'This is a task that I will ensure we all work together to achieve. You all present here today play a major role to achieving and successfully deliver this program. 'As I alluded to in my response to the Speech from the Throne in the current Parliament meeting, this workshop and other activities related to the national Government's policy will guide the MRD's work program for this year and the coming ones,' Hon. Minister Waneoroa emphasized. The minister outlined that under the GNUT Policy Statement and specific to the Section 8.3 on the Resource Sector, MRD is mandated to work on the following policy areas: • Strengthen processes to improve accountability and transparency in administering CDF funds to ensure compliance with CDF Act 2023 and Public Finance Management Act and Regulations; • Promote and utilize constituency funds to decentralize development activities and improve rural livelihood and services; • Review and implement policies and legislation to strengthen constituency development and services; • Prioritize the establishments of Constituency Development Growth Centers (CDGC) in constituencies to decentralize development activities and provide government services to rural areas; and • Implement relevant organizational and functional restructuring within the ministry to align with relevant provisions of the CDF Act 2023. Hon. Minister Waneoroa told the participating officers that the introduction of the CDF Act 2023 necessitates the importance of building our capacities to work on and familiarise ourselves with the changes brought about both in the legislative and administrative aspects of our program. 'Being strategic within this new legal framework as a Ministry and making ourselves relevant in the whole of the government system is important. Thus, everything that we do today either through this workshop or other community-based trainings and administrative guidelines provided by MRD is important for our area of work and to achieving the policy directions of the national government.' Hon. Minister Waneoroa said that 'capacity development for all constituency officers in the critical areas required to improve effective and efficient service delivery in the rural communities will be prioritised for all constituency officers.' The training workshop is purposely designed to achieve the following key outcomes: • Participants will be able to explain the key provisions of the CDF Act 2023 and how it governs constituency development, ensuring compliance with legal and accountability requirements. • participate in the review of the draft of the CDF Act 2023 Regulations and provide informed feedback to ensure that constituency perspectives are incorporated into the final document. • broaden the understanding in the structure, roles, and responsibilities of the Constituency Development Committee (CDC) under the CDF Act 2023 and apply this knowledge in constituency governance. • Participants will be able to identify and use the mandatory templates and the development of constituency plans and reports. • Briefed on the implementation guidelines for PRC RSDP Phase Two and other related future matters on this funding. • Be able to design and implement effective civic-awareness initiatives and communications guideline and methods to improve public understanding of the CDF program and its regulatory framework. 'My good officers, as you go through the various topics of training over the next 4 days, I appeal to you to make good use of this opportunity to learn as much as you can. 'I hope that through this workshop you will develop skills and acquire knowledge which will support you to deliver your work more productively with our constituents and for our rural people,' Hon. Minister Waneoroa said. He thanked everyone for making all efforts to attend this important training and also conveyed well wishes to everyone for a successful training.
Korea Herald
3 days ago
- Health
- Korea Herald
Illuminating ctDNA-MRD: Gene Solutions' K-CONNECT APAC 2025 Sparks Regional Collaboration in Precision Oncology
, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- May 9-11, 2025, Gene Solutions, a pioneer in AI-driven precision oncology hosted K-CONNECT APAC 2025, a pivotal summit uniting over 100 distinguished oncologists and molecular biologists from nine Asia-Pacific countries. — This landmark event marked a significant milestone in advancing precision oncology, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in the fields of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), Molecular Residual Disease (MRD), and Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP). Under the theme "Empowering the Potential of ctDNA-MRD," 16 distinguished speakers and panelists shared clinical insights, breakthrough research, and innovative strategies for integrating ctDNA-MRD into cancer practice. "While ctDNA and MRD are invisible to the eye, K-CONNECT APAC 2025 shed transformative light on their potential through regional collaboration and clinical innovation," said Ida Deleskog Lindstrom, Global Medical Affairs Director at Gene Solutions. "Illuminating ctDNA-MRD means revealing actionable insights that spark hope, clarity, and progress through molecular insights to transform precision oncology." "K-CONNECT APAC 2025 was a transformative moment for precision oncology in the Asia-Pacific, bringing together diverse expertise to translate ctDNA-MRD advancements into real-world clinical impact'' said Professor Nick Pavlakis, Co-Chair of the summit and a leading medical oncologist from Australia. "This summit has set a new benchmark for collaborative innovation, paving the way for personalized cancer care across the region'' A First-of-Its-Kind Gathering in Asia-Pacific Gene Solutions, a regional pioneer in ctDNA-MRD testing, has supported over 6,000 cancer patients via its next generation comprehensive AI-powered K-TRACK® and K-4CARE® platforms. K-CONNECT APAC 2025 showcased its role in fostering cross-border expertise to accelerate adoption of precision diagnostics. The summit featured three key sessions shared by 16 esteemed experts K-CONNECT ACADEMIC Session: K-CONNECT NEXT LANDMARK Session Beyond an Event — Establishing a Platform for Ongoing Impact K-CONNECT is evolving into a regional hub for knowledge exchange, clinical collaborations, and precision oncology innovation acceleration. Upcoming initiatives include: Shaping the Future of Cancer Care K-CONNECT APAC 2025 solidified Gene Solutions' leadership in genetic testing and its commitment to advancing equitable access to innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes. By fostering collaboration and showcasing real-world impact, the summit laid the foundation for a more connected, data-driven, and patient-centered future in cancer care across the Asia-Pacific. About Gene Solutions Gene Solutions is a leading multinational biotechnology company headquartered in Asia, pioneering the integration of advanced AI and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technologies to deliver innovative solutions across the cancer care continuum. Recognized for its proprietary research and CAP-accredited laboratories, the company combines multi-dimensional genomics with AI-driven analytics to transform oncology—from early detection to real-time treatment monitoring. With a strong regional presence and a commitment to empowering access to precision medicine, Gene Solutions is shaping the future of cancer diagnostics and personalized care across the Asia-Pacific.
Malaysian Reserve
3 days ago
- Health
- Malaysian Reserve
Illuminating ctDNA-MRD: Gene Solutions' K-CONNECT APAC 2025 Sparks Regional Collaboration in Precision Oncology
DA NANG, Vietnam, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — May 9-11, 2025, Gene Solutions, a pioneer in AI-driven precision oncology hosted K-CONNECT APAC 2025, a pivotal summit uniting over 100 distinguished oncologists and molecular biologists from nine Asia-Pacific countries. — This landmark event marked a significant milestone in advancing precision oncology, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in the fields of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), Molecular Residual Disease (MRD), and Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP). Under the theme 'Empowering the Potential of ctDNA-MRD,' 16 distinguished speakers and panelists shared clinical insights, breakthrough research, and innovative strategies for integrating ctDNA-MRD into cancer practice. 'While ctDNA and MRD are invisible to the eye, K-CONNECT APAC 2025 shed transformative light on their potential through regional collaboration and clinical innovation,' said Ida Deleskog Lindstrom, Global Medical Affairs Director at Gene Solutions. 'Illuminating ctDNA-MRD means revealing actionable insights that spark hope, clarity, and progress through molecular insights to transform precision oncology.' 'K-CONNECT APAC 2025 was a transformative moment for precision oncology in the Asia-Pacific, bringing together diverse expertise to translate ctDNA-MRD advancements into real-world clinical impact' said Professor Nick Pavlakis, Co-Chair of the summit and a leading medical oncologist from Australia. 'This summit has set a new benchmark for collaborative innovation, paving the way for personalized cancer care across the region' A First-of-Its-Kind Gathering in Asia-Pacific Gene Solutions, a regional pioneer in ctDNA-MRD testing, has supported over 6,000 cancer patients via its next generation comprehensive AI-powered K-TRACK® and K-4CARE® platforms. K-CONNECT APAC 2025 showcased its role in fostering cross-border expertise to accelerate adoption of precision diagnostics. The summit featured three key sessions shared by 16 esteemed experts K-CONNECT ACADEMIC Session: The Importance of ctDNA-MRD and CGP in Precision Oncology Unique Combination of Genomic & Transcriptomic Profiling with ctDNA-MRD Monitoring Key findings from Asia's First Real-World Study of ctDNA-MRD Monitoring in Solid Tumors. K-CONNECT CASE SHARING Session ctDNA-MRD Applications & Real-World Case Sharing in Colorectal, Lung and Breast cancers. K-CONNECT NEXT LANDMARK Session Genetic Testing Guided Personalized Immunotherapy in Refractory Solid Tumors. Triad of Impact– A Multi-omic Solution to Advance Precision Oncology Innovation. Beyond an Event — Establishing a Platform for Ongoing Impact K-CONNECT is evolving into a regional hub for knowledge exchange, clinical collaborations, and precision oncology innovation acceleration. Upcoming initiatives include: K-CONNECT Webinar Series – Ongoing expert-led case discussions Clinical Trials Collaboration – Cross-border partnerships with biopharma and research institutions Experience ctDNA-MRD Program – Hands-on implementation support for clinicians Knowledge Hub – A digital platform for APAC oncology insights Shaping the Future of Cancer Care K-CONNECT APAC 2025 solidified Gene Solutions' leadership in genetic testing and its commitment to advancing equitable access to innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes. By fostering collaboration and showcasing real-world impact, the summit laid the foundation for a more connected, data-driven, and patient-centered future in cancer care across the Asia-Pacific. About Gene Solutions Gene Solutions is a leading multinational biotechnology company headquartered in Asia, pioneering the integration of advanced AI and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technologies to deliver innovative solutions across the cancer care continuum. Recognized for its proprietary research and CAP-accredited laboratories, the company combines multi-dimensional genomics with AI-driven analytics to transform oncology—from early detection to real-time treatment monitoring. With a strong regional presence and a commitment to empowering access to precision medicine, Gene Solutions is shaping the future of cancer diagnostics and personalized care across the Asia-Pacific. Explore more information at: MEDIA CONTACT: pr@
