Clinical-grade validation of whole genome sequencing reveals robust detection of low-frequency variants and copy number alterations in CLL

Br J Haematol. 2018 Aug;182(3):412-417. doi: 10.1111/bjh.15406. Epub 2018 May 29.

Abstract

The 100 000 Genome Project aims to develop a diagnostics platform by introducing whole genome sequencing (WGS) into clinical practice. Samples from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia were subjected to WGS. WGS detection of single nucleotide variants and insertion/deletions were validated by targeted next generation sequencing showing high concordance (96·3%), also for detection of sub-clonal variants and low-frequency TP53 variants. Copy number alteration detection was verified by fluorescent in situ hybridisation and genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism array (concordances of 86·7% and 92·9%, respectively), confirming adequate sensitivity by WGS. Our results confirm that WGS can provide comprehensive genomic characterisation for clinical trials, drug discovery and, ultimately, precision medicine.

Keywords: CLL; Genomics England; chronic lymphocytic leukaemia; precision medicine; whole genome sequencing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • DNA Copy Number Variations / genetics
  • Female
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
  • Humans
  • INDEL Mutation / genetics
  • Leukemia, Lymphocytic, Chronic, B-Cell / genetics*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide / genetics
  • Whole Genome Sequencing / standards*