Overview

This 56-gene tumor panel is built for the resistance moment: disease that has progressed on prior therapy and now needs a reasoned next step. With 20 targeted and 36 chemotherapy-sensitivity genes, it is small enough for fast turnaround yet focused on the alterations that explain why a line failed and where to move next.

How It Works

At progression, tumors often acquire a secondary mutation, switch a fusion partner, or activate a bypass pathway. The targeted portion scans for these emerging resistance alterations, while the chemotherapy portion reassesses which cytotoxic drugs remain favorable. The combined read helps the team avoid re-challenging a pathway that has clearly escaped control.

Indications

It is indicated at radiographic or clinical progression on a prior targeted or chemotherapy regimen, especially when tissue or plasma can be freshly obtained. Re-testing at this point captures the evolved genomic state rather than the original baseline profile.

Specimen & Turnaround

Plasma is frequently used at progression because it reflects current clonal mix with minimal invasiveness; FFPE from a recent biopsy is an alternative. Faster turnaround matters here, since therapy decisions are time-sensitive.

Storage & Sourcing

Ship at 2–8°C and request the lab's resistance-focused reporting that highlights change-from-baseline findings when prior data exist. GIVE LIFE TIME International sources resistance-oriented panels with rapid reporting.

At progression, speed matters, so confirm the laboratory's fastest turnaround and whether plasma is prioritized for resistance testing. Ask how the report presents change-from-baseline findings when prior results exist, because showing what shifted is more useful than a fresh standalone list. Buyers should also verify the lab can return the chemotherapy-sensitivity read alongside the targeted portion in one document, avoiding a second order. Clarify sample minimums and reflex rules so a single draw supports the full panel without delay. Document the re-test policy up front so sequential decisions are not blocked by logistics.

Keep the re-test policy documented in writing so sequential decisions are never delayed by missing paperwork.

FAQ

Q: Why re-test at progression instead of using the baseline panel?
Tumors evolve resistance mutations that the original profile could not show.

Q: Can plasma detect resistance mechanisms?
Yes, circulating tumor DNA often reflects the current resistant clone with less invasiveness.

Q: What does the chemotherapy-sensitivity read add once disease progresses?
It reassesses which cytotoxic drugs remain the better choice after a line has failed.