Response Genetics launches EML4-ALK genetic test in lung cancer.

Response Genetics Inc announced that it has expanded its ResponseDX: Lung genetic test panel to detect the presence of EML4-ALK gene variants in lung cancer patients. EML4-ALK fusion genes are present in about 4% of tumours from patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These rearranged genes promote tumour cell growth and predict lack of benefit from therapies that inhibit EGF receptor (EGFR) activity. Recently, ALK inhibitors have entered clinical development and shown efficacy in NSCLC patients harbouring EML4-ALK fusion proteins. Response Genetics' proprietary PCR-based assay is capable of rapidly detecting and identifying nine known fusion gene variants in archival tissue3. …