High-Sensitivity Liquid Biopsy for Detecting Homologous Recombination Deficiency in Cancer

Ana Vivancos.

Fundació privada Institut Investigació Oncològica Vall Hebron (VHIO), Spain.

Homologous recombination deficiency is a form of DNA repair deficiency that affects how tumour cells repair DNA. This phenotype is key in predicting how certain tumours will respond to specific targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors. However, current tests often fail in samples containing very little tumour material. This project aims to provide a faster and more sensitive diagnostic tool to identify this deficiency.

The CAN-HRD-LB test detects copy-number alterations associated with HRD-positive tumours, even in samples with low tumour content. It offers a quicker turnaround and is more affordable and easier to implement than existing HRD tests and is optimised for both tissue and liquid biopsies. Its simplified bioinformatics workflow also makes it easier to implement in clinical settings, making it suitable for broader clinical use.

The results from this project could help clinicians select targeted treatments for a larger number of patients and improve treatment decisions when tissue samples are limited or difficult to obtain. It could also expand access to precision oncology, ensuring equity in cancer care and improving patient outcomes worldwide.

STAGE 2