Molecular diagnostics in oncology were at the center of ANTISEL’s participation in the 10th Panhellenic Congress of Molecular Medicine, held from June 25–27, 2026, at Aigli Zappeiou in Athens, Greece. The congress brought together leading researchers, clinicians, and laboratory professionals to discuss advances in precision medicine and the growing role of molecular testing in cancer care.
As part of the scientific program, ANTISEL supported the satellite lecture titled “Eliminating Barriers for Tumor Profiling: The Genexus Experience.” The session focused on the real-world implementation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in clinical oncology and on how streamlined laboratory workflows can make tumor profiling more accessible.
The lecture was delivered by Dr. Louiza Machaira, Biologist, PhD in Genetics, from the Molecular Genetics Laboratory of the General Cancer Oncology Hospital “Agios Savvas.” Her presentation highlighted how molecular diagnostics can support the identification of clinically actionable biomarkers and contribute to personalized treatment decisions. We sincerely thank Dr. Machaira for sharing her expertise and insights.
The Role of Molecular Diagnostics in Clinical Oncology
During the lecture, the work of the Molecular Genetics Laboratory was presented, highlighting its expertise in the molecular analysis of clinical samples, primarily from solid tumors. A central part of this work is the identification of clinically actionable molecular biomarkers that can support precision medicine and personalized treatment strategies based on each patient’s genomic profile.
By integrating advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies into clinical laboratory workflows, molecular testing can provide valuable information for the characterization of tumors. These insights can help healthcare professionals evaluate relevant genomic alterations and make more informed decisions regarding patient management and potential treatment options.
This approach reinforces the growing role of molecular diagnostics in oncology, where laboratory findings are increasingly connected with clinical decision-making. The ability to analyze multiple molecular targets can contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of each tumor and support the transition from broader treatment approaches to more individualized care.
NGS Platforms and Workflow Optimization for Tumor Profiling
A key focus of the lecture was the implementation of advanced next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies in clinical oncology and the optimization of laboratory workflows for tumor profiling.
The Molecular Genetics Laboratory uses solutions from Thermo Fisher Scientific, including the Ion GeneStudio™ S5 System, to support the molecular analysis of clinical samples. The presentation highlighted how established sequencing platforms can be incorporated into laboratory workflows to identify relevant genomic alterations and generate valuable molecular information.
The lecture also presented the Genexus™ System and its role in simplifying the implementation of NGS in routine laboratory practice. Through a more integrated workflow, the system is designed to reduce operational complexity and support laboratories in managing the different stages of the sequencing process. This approach also enables greater flexibility in sample processing, as laboratories are not required to batch large numbers of samples. Instead, NGS can be performed on a more frequent basis, allowing results to be generated within approximately 24 hours and supporting faster turnaround times in routine clinical practice.
The experience shared during the session demonstrated that the adoption of NGS depends not only on sequencing capabilities, but also on workflow organization, consistency and ease of use. Optimized workflows can help laboratories integrate molecular diagnostics in oncology more effectively and support the broader application of precision medicine.
Expanding Molecular Testing with Comprehensive Genomic Profiling
The presentation also addressed the NGS panels currently used in routine testing and the laboratory’s plans to broaden its molecular analysis capabilities. A key next step is the planned implementation of the Oncomine™ Comprehensive Assay Plus on the Genexus™ System.
Designed for comprehensive genomic profiling, the assay covers approximately 500 genes and supports the broad analysis of genomic alterations relevant to oncology. It can also support the assessment of homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), with results available within approximately 24 hours through the integrated Genexus workflow.
The HRD score is an increasingly important biomarker in precision oncology, particularly in ovarian cancer, where it can contribute to treatment selection. As its clinical use continues to expand, comprehensive genomic profiling is expected to play an increasingly important role in connecting molecular findings with personalized therapeutic strategies.
Supporting Progress in Molecular Medicine
ANTISEL remains committed to supporting the scientific and clinical community by facilitating access to advanced molecular diagnostics technologies and promoting the exchange of knowledge between research, laboratory practice and clinical care.
Through its collaboration with leading technology providers such as Thermo Fisher Scientific, as well as its participation in scientific congresses and educational initiatives, ANTISEL contributes to the wider adoption of next-generation sequencing (NGS), comprehensive genomic profiling and precision medicine in oncology.
By connecting innovative technologies with scientific expertise and practical laboratory needs, ANTISEL continues to support the evolution of molecular medicine and the integration of new diagnostic capabilities into routine clinical practice.