Making Personalised Medicine a Reality

Genomic Testing

Blood cancers are a set of complex diseases that are driven by genetic mutations within the cancer cells. Precisely which gene mutations are present in the cancer cell determine the blood cancer type and how they will respond to treatment. As technology advances and the world of personalised medicine evolves, understanding the effects of these mutations through research is saving many from undergoing treatments that will have little to no effect on their particular cancer type.

Jennifer* was one such patient. At age 67, Jennifer was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Undertaking genomic testing at the Wilson Centre for Blood Cancer Genomics, the team identified the genetic mutations causing the CLL. Her treatment team then determined the best treatment pathway. In Jennifer’s case it was the use of a targeted therapy using two drugs – Venetoclax and Obinutuzumab, avoiding the use of chemotherapy. Nearly one year on Jennifer continues to respond well to treatment and remains in remission.

*Name and personal details have been changed.

Thanks to the Wilson Centre for Blood Cancer Genomics, over 5,000 Australians diagnosed with blood cancer have received cutting-edge genomic testing since the Centre opened in 2017. The Centre was made possible by the incredible generosity of the Wilson family, who have donated over $9 million.