Kuala Lumpur, 12 December 2023 — Leading local genomic sequencing centre, AGTC Genomics has been awarded the Malaysia Technology Excellence Award 2023 for its remarkable strides in the area of precision diagnostics with the development of liquid biopsy technology. Marking a possible tide shift in the field of oncology, this innovative approach to cancer detection is set to redefine early diagnosis and treatment decision-making.
In the ongoing battle against cancer, time is of the essence. Detection of the disease emerges as a pivotal factor in determining its gravity and the treatment needed — the sooner it is detected, the sooner patients can get the treatment they need. This not only significantly elevates their survival rates and quality of life, but potentially also helps patients to curb treatment costs. Traditional blood tumour markers, however, have long faced scrutiny for their limitations in identifying early-stage cancers, contributing to delayed diagnoses and diminished survival rates. With the development of the liquid biopsy method, AGTC Genomics now stands at the brink of what could be a new chapter in cancer detection and treatment.
“Early detection is the cornerstone of cancer survival and treatment. Liquid biopsy is not just another diagnostic tool; it is the future of early cancer detection,” states Professor Chee-Onn Leong, CEO of AGTC Genomics.
Liquid Biopsy: The Mechanics Behind The Method
Deep DNA sequencing forms the foundation of liquid biopsy, enabling the detection of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) shed by tumours into the bloodstream. This technological breakthrough offers sensitive and specific detection of early-stage cancers across diverse organs. Recent findings unveiled at the International Congress of Pathology And Laboratory Medicine (ICPALM2023) in September underscore the unmatched potential of multi-cancer early detection (MCED) using AGTC Genomics’ pioneering technology.
In fact, liquid biopsies extend beyond early detection. They stand to play a pivotal role in diagnosis, treatment decision-making, reduction of invasive procedures, and monitoring for recurrence. AGTC Genomics’ technology therefore not only increases survival rates but also enhances the overall quality of life for cancer survivors.
As the sole Malaysian provider of a comprehensive liquid biopsy sequencing of over 500 cancer-related genes, AGTC Genomics offers a unique alternative to standard detection processes. Some of the many benefits of this innovative method include higher accuracy rates of 83.1% sensitivity and 95.4% specificity, surpassing existing blood tests, as well as a less invasive and straightforward collection process, and faster results. The liquid biopsy results are also able to be integrated with treatment planning, as they utilise novel genomic analysis techniques for detailed insights into cancer biology.
AGTC Genomics remains committed to ensuring that Malaysians can access and afford this advanced precision test, contributing to a brighter and healthier future in the fight against cancer. For more information on AGTC Genomics and its upcoming projects, kindly visit https://agtcgenomics.com/.
