QFusion™ EML4-ALK and KIF5B-ALK Fusion Gene Detection Kit

QFusion™ Fusion Gene Detection Tests

QFusion™ fusion gene detection kit provides an easy-to-use multiplex RT-qPCR assay that simultaneously detects the most prevalent gene fusion breakpoints. This highly specific and sensitive assay makes use of Taqman chemistry and requires a minimal amount of RNA. It is a comprehensive, rapid and reliable alternative to the laborious FISH test. After RNA extraction from FFPE samples, there are three major steps in the assay workflow: i) qPCR assay preparation, ii) qPCR run, and iii) data analysis.

ALK fusion genes and cancer

EML4-ALK has been emerged as one of the most important driver oncogenes in lung cancer and the first targeted fusion onco-kinase to be identified in 4-6% of lung adenocarcinomas. Other non-EML4 fusion partner genes including KIF5B, TFG, and KLC1 have also been reported. Over the last few years, ALK inhibitors have shown significant benefits in the management of ALK-positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared to conventional chemotherapy.

Chromosomal translocations involving the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene as a 3’ partner have been found in ~5% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). These translocations fuse the kinase domain of ALK with other genes, producing a chimeric protein with oncogenic potential. Recently developed kinase inhibitors that target the kinase domain of ALK are currently used to treat ALK fusion positive NSCLC patients. Most frequent 5’ partners of these fusions are EML4 and the KIF5B genes.

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