Molecular Profiling
For decades, doctors treated lung cancer primarily based on its appearance under the microscope. For patients, that usually meant a “one-size-fits-all” approach when it came to formulating their treatment plan. Now, doctors understand that there are different types of lung cancer, which can be driven by different genetic factors. Molecular profiling can help doctors tailor treatment plans for certain patients based on the genetic makeup of their tumors. It may also help determine some tumors’ potential for spreading or recurring.1-6
Biomarkers
Simply defined, a biomarker is a distinctive biological indicator of a condition. Through molecular profiling, lung cancer biomarkers can be found in biopsied tumor tissues and can reveal a great deal of information.7-9
Why Is Molecular Profiling Important?
Molecular profiling is an important step forward because it may help doctors treat your lung cancer based on the genetic characteristics of your tumor. If you test positive for certain biomarkers, it may provide information to your team that can guide them in developing a treatment plan for you, possibly including a clinical trial.3-6,9
Learn more about molecular profiling and biomarkers by talking to your doctor. Get the conversation started with our helpful guide for Planning Your Next Visit.
The Future of Molecular Profiling and Biomarkers
Molecular profiling technology continues to advance, especially in the area of identifying cancer tissue biomarkers. This is significant because with each newly discovered biomarker comes the possibility of finding genetically targeted treatments for specific subtypes of tumors.4,6,9
