Director of Molecular Pathology NYU Langone Health New York, New York, United States
Description: Gene fusions play a pivotal role in cancer pathogenesis and targeted therapy selection. However, identifying clinically significant and novel gene fusions remains challenging due to technical limitations, biological complexity, and the evolving landscape of fusion discovery. This session will delve into the latest innovations in gene fusion detection technologies, methylation data and bioinformatics pipelines that enhance sensitivity and specificity. We will discuss obstacles such as interpreting rare or previously unreported fusions, distinguishing driver from passenger events, and integrating fusion data into clinical decision-making. Attendees will gain insight into emerging strategies for overcoming these challenges and advancing the clinical utility of gene fusion testing.
Learning Objectives: - Explain the clinical significance of gene fusions in neurooncology - Identify common challenges in detecting and interpreting novel and rare gene fusions in CNS tumors. - Describe recent technological and bioinformatic advancements improving gene fusion discovery.