Genomics England has announced the successful completion of the first phase of its study assessing plasma samples and potential of liquid biopsy.
The research, which is in collaboration with Inivata and Thermo Fisher Scientific, analysed around 200 blood plasma samples donated by participants of the 100,000 Genomes Project.
The results showed that the plasma samples collected were of a high quality and produced reliable results when analysed, with results consistent across all cancer types.
The assessment of the suitability of the circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) samples will enable researchers to perform an objective technology evaluation of the various market offerings in liquid biopsy in the second stage.
The reliable results produced open up a range of possibilities for the further analysis of banked samples using liquid biopsy technology, and demonstrate a strong potential for liquid biopsy to improve cancer management and outcomes for UK patients.
Clive Morris, chief executive officer at Inivata, said: “We are delighted to be working with Genomics England, and to see the progress being made with this collaborative study.
“The successful end of this initial phase demonstrates the quality of the sample collection from all sites and will enable the exploration of a number of ways of providing further insights to patients.
“Inivata and Genomics England share a commitment to delivering innovations to UK patients, unlocking exciting new treatment options and improving patient care.”
The whole process will help to develop less invasive sample collection techniques, more effective monitoring processes, and ultimately better cancer care.
