What is the Tumor Mutation Burden (TMB) Panel?
The Tumor Mutation Burden being performed at our center is a panel consisting of 600+ genes. This panel is studied using next-generation sequencing (NGS) method and includes SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) related to cancer, copy number variation (CNV), and fusions of certain genes. Tumor Mutation Burden and MSI are studied within this panel. In our reports, information is provided regarding drug selection based on the variants detected in the patient and other pharmacogenetic (drug resistance, sensitivity, and toxicity) data. In addition to smart drug selection, evaluation of sensitivity, resistance, and side effects for chemotherapeutics is also performed.
The Tumor Mutation Burden (TMB) test is a test used to measure the number of genetic mutations in cancer cells. The number of genetic mutations occurring in cancer cells is based on the relationship that cancer cells become more clearly recognized by the immune system, thus leading to a better response to immunotherapy treatment.
The MSI (Microsatellite Instability) test is a genetic test used to identify changes in the repeat regions of microsatellites in DNA that occur due to disruptions in DNA repair mechanisms. Although MSI is most commonly associated with certain types of cancer such as colon cancer, results emerging in many types of cancer can affect treatments. Disruption in DNA repair mechanisms can trigger genetic changes in DNA necessary for the growth and division of cancer cells in these cancer types.
Personalized Medicine
With the broad panels we perform, the detection of genetic variants present in individuals affects treatment selection in many diseases, especially cancers, and this approach increases treatment success while reducing the risk of side effects.