What is analysed?
The ALK (anaplastic lymphoma receptor tyrosine kinase) gene is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein called ALK, which plays an important role in various cellular processes.
However, alterations or rearrangements in the ALK gene can lead to the production of abnormal ALK proteins, which may contribute to the development of certain cancers, such as non-small cell lung cancer.
The ALK gene rearrangement test identifies specific rearrangements in the ALK gene in cancer cells and tissue. The presence of these alterations suggest that the non-small cell lung cancer will respond to targeted therapy.
What does the result mean?
The result indicates whether there are rearrangements in the ALK gene.
Why conduct the analysis?
The ALK gene rearrangement test is conducted to detect the presence of a specific ALK gene rearrangement in the cancer in order to guide targeted therapy for non-small cell lung cancer.
When to conduct the analysis?
The ALK gene rearrangement test is conducted at the time of initial diagnosis of non-small cell lung cancer, especially adenocarcinoma.
What sample is required?
A sample of tumour tissue, obtained through a biopsy or during surgery, is required.
Is any prior preparation necessary?
No specific prior preparation is needed.
How is it performed?
The sample is first analysed by a pathologist before it is sent to a laboratory, where it is analysed using molecular techniques such as fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) or polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
What are the normal values?
The following table outlines the standard reference range for this test.
What does having altered values mean?
- Positive: If the sample has a specific ALK gene rearrangement mutation, then it is likely that it will respond to ALK kinase inhibitor targeted drug therapy.