The Future Is Now: Molecular Diagnostics in Cancer Care
Dr Aparna Dhar, a specialist in cancer genetics and molecular oncology, firmly believes that the era of “one-size-fits-all” cancer treatment is behind us. The foundation of modern personalised cancer care is molecular diagnostics—the analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins that drive tumour development and progression.
Molecular diagnostics enables a fundamental shift in cancer care. It allows clinicians to move beyond tumour localisation toward an understanding of each tumour’s unique genetic profile. This transformation is reshaping the way we diagnose, treat, and monitor cancer, making it possible to deliver more precise and effective therapies. This specialised approach highlights the importance of care guided by a molecular oncology expert or cancer geneticist.
What Is Molecular Diagnostics?
Molecular diagnostics encompasses a group of advanced laboratory techniques designed to detect specific molecular alterations in cancer tissue or blood samples. Unlike conventional pathology, which examines cells under a microscope, molecular diagnostics focuses on the genetic and molecular characteristics of cancer.
Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
This advanced technology enables simultaneous analysis of millions of DNA and RNA fragments, allowing detection of multiple cancer-associated mutations (“hotspots”) in a single comprehensive test.
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Targeted PCR-based techniques, including digital PCR, detect known genetic alterations. Along with NGS-based circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) assays, they are valuable in monitoring minimal residual disease (MRD), particularly in solid tumours.
Liquid Biopsies
This non-invasive approach analyses circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) fragments shed by tumour cells into the bloodstream, enabling real-time monitoring of tumour evolution and treatment response.
Expanding Role in Clinical Care
The increasing adoption of these technologies highlights the growing integration of molecular oncology into routine cancer care, improving diagnostic precision and personalised treatment strategies.
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Why Is Molecular Diagnostics Essential?
Understanding the molecular profile of a tumour is critical for personalised, precision-driven cancer care.
Targeted Therapy Guidance
Modern cancer therapies inhibit specific mutated proteins or signalling pathways. Identifying actionable targets such as EGFR mutations or HER2 amplification directly informs personalised treatment and may reduce reliance on conventional chemotherapy.
Predicting Prognosis & Risk
Molecular tumour features provide insight into biological behaviour, helping predict recurrence risk, treatment sensitivity, and overall prognosis — guiding surveillance intensity and long-term planning.
Monitoring Treatment Response (MRD)
ctDNA-based liquid biopsy assays detect minimal residual disease by identifying tiny fragments of tumour DNA in blood — often months before recurrence becomes visible on imaging.
Early Detection of Recurrence
Molecular diagnostics can demonstrate ctDNA clearance or undetectable ctDNA levels, confirming an excellent molecular response and enabling earlier intervention if recurrence occurs.