Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a new genetic test that can diagnose brain tumours in as little as 2 hours
The test, called ROBIN, uses PromethION nanopore sequencing to deliver rapid methylome classification. The researchers said results could be available intraoperatively, allowing clinicians to make faster, more informed decisions.
The same assay can also be used for next-day molecular profiling, including detection of single nucleotide, copy number, and structural variants.
DNA methylation-based classification is now essential for diagnosing and managing many brain tumour subtypes. Current diagnostic methods rely on additional microarray-based assays to detect pathognomonic somatic mutations and structural variants. These steps often delay final diagnosis.