The role of next-generation sequencing in understanding the genomic basis of diffuse large B cell lymphoma and advancing targeted therapies

Expert Rev Hematol. 2016 Mar;9(3):255-69. doi: 10.1586/17474086.2016.1130616. Epub 2016 Jan 14.

Abstract

Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) has redefined the genetic landscape of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) by identifying recurrent somatic mutations. Importantly, in some cases these mutations impact potentially actionable targets, thus affording novel personalized therapy opportunities. At the forefront of today's precision therapy era, how to best incorporate NGS into daily clinical practice is of primordial concern, in order to tailor patient's treatment regimens according to their individual mutational profiles. With the advent of cell-free DNA sequencing, which provides a sensitive and less invasive means of monitoring DLBCL patients, the clinical feasibility of NGS has been greatly improved. This article reviews the current landscape of DLBCL mutations, as well as the targeted therapies developed to counter their effects, and discusses how best to utilize NGS data for treatment decision-making.

Keywords: Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma; Next Generation Sequencing; actionable target; cell-free DNA; molecular multidisciplinary meeting; targeted therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA Mutational Analysis / methods
  • Epigenesis, Genetic / drug effects
  • Genomics / methods
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing / methods
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / drug therapy
  • Lymphoma, Large B-Cell, Diffuse / genetics*
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy / methods
  • Mutation*
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA / methods

Substances

  • DNA