A genetic mutation is a change in the DNA code that can have various impacts, from being harmless to causing diseases. For example, mutations in specific genes can cause cancer by triggering the rapid growth of cells and which can influence how doctors decide on treatments.

Genetic mutations play a critical role in the initiation and progression of cancer by disrupting the normal cellular functions that maintain normal tissue growth and integrity. When certain genes acquire mutations, they can lose their ability to regulate these processes effectively leading to uncontrolled cell growth, which can become cancerous. Additionally, mutations can affect genes involved in repairing DNA damage or controlling cell death, further promoting cancer development. These mutations can occur spontaneously or be inherited from parents, influencing the likelihood of developing cancer.

Genetic mutations in cancer cells can be detected using several methods. Genetic testing, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), examines specific genes for mutations associated with cancer. Liquid biopsies using NGS detect circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) in blood to identify mutations less invasively. Immunohistochemistry uses antibodies to detect abnormal proteins produced by mutated genes in tumor samples. These techniques help oncologists understand the genetic profile of a cancer, guiding treatment decisions based on the identified mutations.

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a technology that rapidly sequences genetic codes (DNA or RNA). In cancer diagnosis, NGS identifies mutations that drive tumor growth, helping doctors choose precise treatments. It also personalizes medicine by studying each cancer patient’s unique genetic mutations. Since there are anti-cancer drugs that are designed to work on cancers with specific mutations, next generation sequencing allows your physician to select the best treatment. NGS can even detect cancer early by analyzing circulating tumor DNA from blood (liquid biopsies) and helps monitor how cancer changes and how the effective the treatment is over time by regularly examining its genetic material.

Somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells during an individual's lifetime, and are often associated with cancer, whereas germline mutations are inherited from parents and can predispose individuals to hereditary conditions, including certain types of cancer. Understanding these variants is crucial for personalized treatment and cancer risk assessment.

Somatic mutations are crucial in cancer treatment as they guide the use of targeted therapies that specifically attack mutated proteins driving cancer growth improving efficacy, and reducing side effects. Somatic mutations also help predict how cancer will respond to treatment and monitor treatment effectiveness over time through methods like liquid biopsies.

Germline mutations influence cancer treatment by informing risk assessment and determining the likelihood of developing certain types of cancer based on inherited genetic mutations. Additionally, germline mutations affecting drug metabolism can influence how cancer patients respond to treatments. These mutations guide treatment decisions by indicating which therapies may be most effective or ineffective due to specific genetic profiles. Finally, detecting certain germline mutations may cause family members to get screened and monitored, thus preventing cancer in other family members.

CANARY ACUITY™ is a DNA-based test that provides comprehensive treatment options for cancer patients. It sequences a panel of 1091 genes, offering personalized treatment recommendations based on deep sequencing to detect subclonal variants.

The Canary Focus™ test is a panel of 119 genes that are frequently found mutated in common cancers such as lung, colon and breast. It is less expensive than our comprehensive test, yet still provides important information about your cancer and offers the same treatment strategies found in our comprehensive test.

Yes, the Acuity™ and Focus™ tests are available for all solid tumor and hematologic malignancies, providing a comprehensive genomic profiling solution for various cancer types.

Your physician will determine the optimal test for you and submit the requisition. For our patients in India, once your physician recommends a Canary test, a simple phone call listed on the form will allow us to collect your sample and begin testing. Our team will be available to assist you at every step during the testing process.

14 business days from when we receive your sample.

The diagnostic report contains all the relevant information in a format that the physician can easily understand and act upon.

The Canary team is always here to help. We work closely with your physician and provide any molecular diagnostic support they request around your case.

Canary ensures patient data privacy by following stringent security measures and complying with healthcare privacy regulations, safeguarding patient information during and after testing.