Personalized Onco-Genomics (POG) Program

Across cancer types, cutting-edge genomic analysis is being used to inform treatment planning. For example, the Personalized Onco-Genomics (POG) program began as BC Cancer’s flagship clinical trial focusing on uncovering treatments for people with metastatic cancers. Since then, it has evolved and is now offered to more patients at an earlier stage. Here are a few milestones that the Rix Family Foundation has helped BC Cancer achieve over the last few years:

• BC Cancer contributed to the largest POG publication to date, examining over 500 people with advanced or metastatic cancers between 2012-2017. The research showed that genomic analysis influenced treatment choice in 75% of patients;

• BC Cancer led a breakthrough study revealing that immunotherapy could be effective in treating a subset of aggressive pediatric tumours;

• BC Cancer launched PATH (Personalized Approach in the Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers), which uses genomic data to identify people who may be innately resistant to curative treatments like radiation and redirect them to alternatives like surgery. It also helps differentiate between patients who are cured by standard treatment and those who may benefit from an intensified treatment strategy;

• Genomic analysis helped to uncover that KRAS mutations are absent in approximately 10% of people with metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (mPDAC) and identified two new drugs that target the cancer;

• BC Cancer has expanded POG eligibility and can now enroll patients earlier in their disease and include surgical patients who are at a high risk of cancer recurrence;

• The THRIVE study is using genomic clues to help scientists understand why immunotherapy is not effective for most people with lung cancer and predict which patients are likely to respond. If the response to immunotherapy can be anticipated, patients could be spared unnecessary side effects and toxicities;

• The breast cancer research team is preparing to launch a new study that will use whole genome and transcriptome analysis to uncover what causes drug resistance in women with triple-negative breast cancer; and

• BC Cancer is exploring the use of previously donated tissue for genomic analysis rather than an additional biopsy. While at a preliminary stage, this could set a new global precedent for genomics research.