Molecular oncology studies how genetic and molecular changes drive the development and progression of cancer. Clinically relevant biomarkers are molecular features that can inform diagnosis, prognosis, or treatment selection.
Examples include EGFR and ALK alterations in non-small cell lung cancer, HER2 amplification in breast and gastric cancer, KRAS mutations in colorectal and other cancers, and BRAF mutations in melanoma. Testing for these biomarkers can help determine whether specific targeted therapies may be appropriate.
Biomarker testing should be performed in accredited laboratories, and results should be interpreted by qualified healthcare professionals in the context of the individual patient.