Quest Diagnostics to Present Important ctDNA MRD Research
Quest Diagnostics, a prominent provider of diagnostic information services, is poised to share significant findings on circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) minimal residual disease (MRD) testing during two presentations at an important symposium. The 2026 ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium will showcase these developments online and in-person, highlighting advancements in colorectal cancer diagnostics.
Details of the Upcoming Presentations
The presentations focus on the application of the Haystack MRD® test from Quest Diagnostics, elaborating on its crucial role in the realm of oncology. Two studies are set for presentation:
Poster Presentation 1
Title: Reproducibility and Clinical Concordance of a Tumor-Informed MRD Assay in Patients with Resected Colorectal Cancer from the DYNAMIC Trials
Lead Author: Jeanne Tie, MBChB, FRACP, MD
Session Time: January 10, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM (PST)
Poster Presentation 2
Title: Use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) to monitor patients undergoing total neoadjuvant treatment (TNT) for locally advanced rectal adenocarcinoma (LARC)
Lead Author: Eric Christenson, MD
Session Time: January 10, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM (PST)
The Significance of ctDNA MRD Testing
The implementation of ctDNA-based MRD testing marks a significant advancement in cancer diagnosis and management. This method helps identify residual or recurring cancer in solid tumors by detecting minute amounts of tumor-derived DNA in the bloodstream. Such capability can unveil clues to cancer recurrence months before it becomes visible through traditional imaging techniques.
By gaining early knowledge about disease status, clinicians are better equipped to adjust surveillance strategies, enhance treatment plans, and potentially intervene before cancer progresses into a more severe stage. Notably, a recent survey has shown that nearly all oncologists believe that MRD testing could play a pivotal role in the early detection of cancer recurrence compared to other available methods.
About Haystack Oncology
Haystack Oncology is the result of over two decades of innovation and teamwork among experts in cancer genomics. As a subsidiary of Quest Diagnostics, they have introduced the Haystack MRD test, a sophisticated tool designed to detect ultra-low levels of ctDNA. This test enables the identification of residual or recurrent disease with impressive sensitivity and accuracy.
In collaboration with biopharmaceutical partners, Haystack Oncology aims to propel clinical development programs that support vital therapeutic advancements. They strive to bridge innovations from early-phase clinical trials to global markets, offering valuable insights for companion diagnostics. The Haystack MRD test has been developed in a CLIA-certified lab and is available for commercial applications as a lab-developed test (LDT) through Quest Diagnostics. Furthermore, it is accessible for clinical trials as an investigational device at facilities located in different parts of the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the 2026 ASCO Symposium?
The ASCO symposium serves as a key platform for presenting innovative research in cancer care, highlighting breakthroughs such as ctDNA MRD testing.
What is ctDNA MRD testing?
Circulating tumor DNA MRD testing detects small amounts of tumor DNA in the blood to identify residual or recurring cancers.
How does Haystack MRD testing work?
Haystack MRD testing leverages advanced liquid biopsy technologies to find minute traces of ctDNA, helping clinicians make informed decisions in oncology.
Why is early detection important in cancer treatment?
Early detection allows for timely interventions and personalized treatment plans, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.
Who leads the presentations on Haystack MRD?
The presentations are led by renowned experts, including Jeanne Tie and Eric Christenson, who are poised to share their findings.
