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Mayo Clinic Laboratories > Oncology > Neuro-oncology > Molecular and cytogenetic testing

Molecular and cytogenetic testing

Supporting patient care genetic testing

With rapid technological advancements and medical discoveries, the standard approach to genetic testing is evolving. Mayo Clinic Laboratories is at the leading edge of testing innovation and offers MayoComplete next-generation sequencing (NGS) of both DNA and RNA, as well as chromosomal microarray testing to complement standard morphological and immunohistochemical assessments.

In a Mayo Clinic study of adult glioma patients, comprehensive molecular and cytogenetic analysis resulted in a significant positive impact on patients.1 Of 379 patients seen:

Molecular and cytogenetic test menu

Next-generation DNA and RNA sequencing

Our neuro-oncology NGS panel is part of our suite of MayoComplete panels. This robust test includes most abnormalities described by the World Health Organization 2021 Classifications.2 It includes a DNA subpanel that assesses alterations in 89 genes and a comprehensive whole transcriptome RNA subpanel that assesses fusions and rearrangements in 1,445 genes, including known abnormal transcript variants in the MET and EGFR genes.

Key testing

Highlights


Mayo Complete next-generation RNA sequencing

Our unique-to-the-market, targeted RNA panel uses NGS to evaluate 1,445 genes within the RNA transcriptome for somatic gene fusions. Used as a complement to DNA-only sequencing, RNA sequencing efficiently and accurately detects genetic fusions, including identification of new or unknown fusion partners and fusions with novel breakpoints. By including evaluation of transcriptome areas typically underrepresented in existing testing, this assay offers an enhanced ability to detect challenging fusions.

Key testing

Highlights


Chromosomal microarray

Chromosomal microarray provides high-resolution assessment of copy number variations across the genome. According to published guidelines, when these abnormalities are found in diffuse astrocytic gliomas, IDH wild-type, the tumor should be considered as having molecular features of glioblastoma.2 Copy number variations can also further clarify or support diagnosis and provide information useful for prognosis.

Key testing

Advantages

  • Superior analysis of the 1p/19q deletion in gliomas.
  • Detects abnormalities, including the gain of chromosome 7, loss of chromosome 10, and EGFR amplification.
  • Simultaneously tests for multiple 2021 WHO diagnostic biomarkers, including copy number variants and amplifications.

Highlights


MGMT promoter methylation status

MGMT promoter methylation status has prognostic value for glioblastoma patients and can assist in predicting therapeutic response.

Key testing


Additional DNA testing

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References
  1. Praska C, Kollmeyer T, Barr Fritcher E, et al. Clinical utility of combined next generation sequencing and chromosomal microarray analysis for the diagnosis and management of adult gliomas. Neuro Oncol. 2020;22(Suppl 2):ii174. doi:10.1093/neuonc/noaa215.725
  2. WHO Classification of Tumours Editorial Board, Central nervous system tumours. Lyon (France): International Agency for Research on Cancer, 5th ed., vol. 6, 2021.
  3. Brat DJ, Aldape K, Colman H, et al. cIMPACT-NOW update 3: recommended diagnostic criteria for “Diffused astrocytic glioma, IDH-wildtype, with molecular features of glioblastoma, WHO grade IV.” Acta Neuropathol. 2018 Nov;136(5):805-810.
  4. Central Nervous System Cancers. National Comprehensive Cancer Network Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology. Version 2.2025: Aug. 28, 2025. https://www.nccn.org/professionals/physician_gls/pdf/cns.pdf
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