Did you miss your chance to view this year's Corporate Workshops?! We are excited to announce that select Corporate Workshops are now accessible to AMP members and others in the molecular diagnostics community. Please see below for direct links to view the workshops. The workshops will be available until November 2024.
Note: Please read the privacy policy and disclaimer before viewing the workshops. In order to view the workshops, you will be required to register with your contact information and agree to be contacted by the Host Company.
Click Here to View the Corporate Workshop Program
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
In 2020, American Cancer Society released an updated cervical cancer screening guideline calling for primary human papillomavirus (HPV) screening as the preferred strategy. Utility of HPV primary screening enables risk stratification by genotyping which leads to more effective triage and personalized care for patients. This session will review the results from the Alinity m HR HPV* clinical trial and how this test may be utilized in clinical practice. We will also review the workflow efficiencies that can be achieved when introducing an automated pre-analytical system** to HPV testing. * Alinity m HR HPV assay is pending FDA review and not commercially available in the United States. ** Alinity mp is under development and not commercially available. |
Rethinking Solid Tumor Profiling: How Utilizing Complementary Technologies Can Allow Laboratories to Guide Better Treatment Decisions
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A Look at Current and Future Molecular Biomarkers in Locally Advanced and Metastatic Breast Cancers |
The importance of molecular Biomarkers in Breast Cancer, current molecular biomarkers in HR+/HER2- mBC, and emerging molecular biomarkers in HR+/HER2- mBC. • Appreciate the science and clinical applications of using molecular biomarkers to manage patients with breast cancer • Recognize the current and emerging biomarkers that may influence clinical decision-making for patients with advanced breast cancer based on their prognostic and/or predictive value • Understand the PI3K/AKT/PTEN pathway and its importance in HR+/HER2- metastatic breast cancer |
Optimizing Biomarker Testing in Resectable and Metastatic NSCLC: A Multidisciplinary Approach |
This program will illustrate key best practices and new developments for biomarker testing in the care of patients with resectable and metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The presentation will highlight the importance of multidisciplinary team (MDT) coordination and its crucial role toward implementing best practices in sample collection. Latest biomarker testing guidelines, evolving biomarkers, and recommendations for liquid biopsy integration in metastatic NSCLC will also be reviewed. Specifically, the speakers will discuss:
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Advancing Precision Medicine in Breast Cancer: Applying New Techniques and Approaches to Detect ESR1 Mutations and More |
The clinical relevance of ESR1 mutations and review of data supporting serial ctDNA monitoring to detect the emergence of ESR1 mutations (eg, from PADA-1). The comparison of different testing methods for ESR1 mutations and their benefits/drawbacks. • Appreciate the science and clinical applications of using ESR1 mutations as the dynamic biomarker to manage patients with metastatic breast cancer • Review data supporting ctDNA-mediated serial ESR1m monitoring, thereby identifying molecular progression before radiological progression of the disease, leading to a change in disease management • Discuss current and upcoming technologies for testing molecular biomarkers in metastatic breast cancer, including ESR1 mutations |
Simple, Sensitive, and Scalable: QuantideX Suite of Assays for Targeted MRD Monitoring of Leukemic Fusions |
The QuantideX qPCR BCR-ABL IS (IVD) and Minor (RUO) Kits, as well as the upcoming qPCR PML-RARA Kit (RUO)**, provide highly sensitive and scalable methods for detection and quantification of MRD involving these fusions, allowing for molecular laboratories big and small to implement such tests using widely available qPCR equipment. In this corporate workshop, we will review the key features and attributes of these assays and will describe key performance data illustrating why QuantideX is the portfolio of choice for highly sensitive detection of leukemic fusions. |
AmplideX to the Rescue: One Easy-to-Implement Test Workflow Enabling Repeat Expansion Resolution, Copy Number Assessment, and Highly Multiplexed Variant Detection |
AmplideX PCR/CE FMR1 kit has become the gold standard for FMR1 analysis. In the last few years, Asuragen has expanded the applications of AmplideX chemistry to other repeat disorder genes (e.g. C9orf72), copy number assays (SMN1/2), and highly multiplexed variant detection (CFTR). This workshop will highlight the experience of one clinical lab moving from assay validation through to routine testing using the AmplideX SMN1/2 Plus Kit. This kit provides the SMN1 and SMN2 copy numbers and detects variants associated with gene duplication and milder disease phenotype, all in one reaction with a simple, scalable, and streamlined workflow with analysis software. |
Expedite Patient Management Decisions with RAPID Molecular Tests |
This workshop will reflect on how we, as a community, can expedite patient management decisions through personalized medicine and specially via a diversification of molecular tests within the clinical setting. Today’s challenges in providing timely molecular results to enable fast decisions on diagnosis, therapeutic management will be discussed. Furthermore, the MSKCC Clinical Pathology Team will present an example where the implementation of a fully automated system to enable ultra-rapid assessment of IDH1/2 hotspot mutation status on various sample types without the need for prior DNA extraction enabled rapid and accurate identification of actionable biomarkers in hematologic malignancies and solid tumors. |
New Frontiers in Diagnostics: Simplifying High Purity Exosome Isolation with the ExoVerita™ Pro |
Extracellular vesicles, including exosomes, are cell-to-cell communication tools representing active tissues. Thus, exosomes offer the opportunity to intercept messages related to disease status. We will discuss how our automated platform, ExoVerita™ Pro, rapidly isolates highly purified exosomes from clinical samples, thereby enabling downstream analysis. The workshop will include discussion on recent results using ExoVerita Pro for early-stage cancer detection and how the system can be leveraged to empower other diagnostic applications. Attendees will have the opportunity to see and discuss the system with the developers and ask questions about how it can be used in their research.
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Structural Variant Insights from Adult and Pediatric CNS Tumors: Powered by Optical Genome Mapping |
According to ASCO’s “Cancer.Net” website, CNS tumors account for >300,000 overall cancer diagnoses worldwide and are estimated to be the second most common type of childhood cancers. When it comes to investigating the molecular bases of CNS tumors, and in particular the role of structural variants (SV), multiple technologies have been used over the past decades. However, the underlying genetic alteration remains unresolved for many samples. Therefore, there is a clear need for the application of new technologies.? In this enlightening symposium, three presenters unveil groundbreaking data from their clinical research on SVs in CNS tumors. The data was generated using Optical Genome Mapping (OGM), a method known for its comprehensive, high-resolution, and unbiased detection of SVs across the genome. As part of this session, a comparison of OGM performance to classical methods, such as microarrays, will also be presented. |
Revolutionizing Cytogenomics with Optical Genome Mapping in Hematological Malignancies |
Optical Genome Mapping (OGM) is emerging as a leading new method to assess the cytogenomic profile of hematological malignancies, as shown by the mounting evidence presented in peer-reviewed publications worldwide. Not only has OGM been shown to be highly concordant with classical methods in the detection of structural and numerical variants, but it has also been demonstrated to reveal multiple incremental pathogenic variants. Additionally, it is transforming lab workflows by enabling consolidation of multiple assays into a single assay. This session will start with a brief introduction on OGM by Dr. Hastie, followed by Dr. Dubuc and Dr. Crocker presenting clinical research data generated using OGM across different types of hematological malignancies, including lymphomas, myelomas and leukemias. The session will end with Dr. Smith discussing an international working group initiative and proposed framework for standardized implementation of OGM across cytogenetic labs. |
Discover Tumor Heterogeneity with Integrated Single-Cell Genomics and Transcriptomics |
While bulk sequencing has transformed cancer research and therapy, we are rapidly approaching the limits of discovery with bulk sequencing of tumors. Decreasing sequencing costs, increasing throughput, and improvements in methodology are enabling researchers to move from bulk to single-cell sequencing approaches. Furthermore, new chemistries are enabling multiomic analysis in single cells. In this workshop, learn how ResolveOME, an integrated single-cell genomic and transcriptomic workflow, was used to characterize intratumoral heterogeneity in ductal carcinoma in situ cells. |
TCR & BCR Repertoire Analysis and Other Approaches for the Discovery of Drug Targets, Resistance Mechanisms and Biomarkers |
We will describe a novel, comprehensive technique to profile all 7 TCR & BCR chains in a single, multiplex RT-PCR reaction as well as complementary methods for Targeted RNA-Seq and gene functional analysis using CRISPR and RNAi loss-of-function (CRISPR KO, CRISPRi, RNAi) and gain-of-function (cRISPRa) screening.
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Current testing options for monitoring leukemia patients are not only cumbersome, but can be expensive and time-consuming for the lab to implement. Join us to learn more about how Cepheid’s advanced Lab in a Cartridge™ technology decreases workflow complexity and hands-on time by automating the entire testing process, delivering faster results. |
HDPCR-Multiplex Multi-Analyte < 24-Hour Turnaround Assays in Blood and FFPE Using Existing dPCR Instruments; Performance in Molecular Profiling, Monitoring and MRD |
Despite technical progress, critical biomarker testing remains inaccessible due to complex workflows, high costs, and impractical turnaround times.
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Achieving High Sensitivity and Concordance for CGP from “Liquid Biopsy” Specimens |
Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP) of whole blood “liquid biopsy” specimens from cancer patients is being performed in increasing numbers when tumor tissue is inaccessible or unavailable. The accuracy and sensitivity of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assays vary greatly. Consequently, a rigorous validation including comparisons with matched tissue is critical in establishing clinical utility. We will discuss important considerations when establishing a ctDNA CGP assay to ensure high sensitivity and concordance and share implementation challenges and proposed solutions experienced in a community-based, Integrated Network Cancer Program. We will also highlight the benefits of in-house CGP testing for both tissue and liquid. |
Implementing CGP+ HRD Testing In-House in a Large US Healthcare System |
Homologous recombination repair deficiency (HRD) is associated with response to poly-ADP-ribose polymerase inhibition (PARPi) therapy in advanced ovarian cancer. In combination with comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP), these analyses allow clinicians to maximize clinical information so that patients with ovarian cancer are matched with approved therapies or enrolled in relevant clinical trials. A pathologist and laboratory director will discuss the impact of implementing a HRD assay at their institution. They will describe the details of implementing the assay, technical considerations for HRD testing, concordance with other HRD assays, and the added value of offering CGP and HRD testing in-house . |
The Evolving Role of NGS and Measurable Residual Disease in CLL/SLL and AML |
While diagnostic test procedures are well defined for hematologic malignances, despite the scientific communities’ recognition of its importance, guidelines for IGHV somatic hypermutation (SHM) status and MRD remain ambiguous. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have led to improved classifications for inclusion in clinical trials, determination of prognosis, and improved treatments. A growing body of research suggests that the presence of any MRD, particularly in AML, provides important information regarding risk for subsequent relapse. Lastly, we will discuss best practices for the detection of specific genetic mutations, such as mutated IGHV in CLL/SLL. |
Improving Patient Access to Precision Oncology Through Centralized Services and Kitted Solutions to Empower Localized Testing |
Clinical NGS has advanced precision oncology, enabling physicians to identify actionable biomarkers in patients to aid in therapy selection. However, access remains a challenge with only 20% of patients receiving molecular profiling. This workshop highlights the value of a scalable FDA-cleared tissue-based solid tumor profiling solution. With best-in-class bioinformatics and a path to reimbursement, this solution can help local laboratories implement in-house testing and increase access to a larger patient population. The workshop also covers liquid biopsy-based biomarker profiling solutions that assist with distinguishing somatic from CH variants and tissue-agnostic treatment response monitoring for patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. |
From High-Throughput to Point-of-Care Oncology Testing: Cutting-Edge Genotyping Chemistries for Direct Analysis of Blood, FFPE Tissue, Urine and Stool
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In this session, we will look at PCR genotyping technology and the latest chemistries that Meridian developed for the identification of mutations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Lyo-Ready™ Genotyping Direct qPCR master mixes not only simplify the workflow while ensuring superior cluster resolution and allelic discrimination but are also compatible with lyophilization. We will demonstrate how these chemistries enable the detection of SNPs directly from blood, plasma, urine, stool or FFPE tissue, without obligatory nucleic acid extraction and purification and down to 1 copy per reaction. Meridian’s latest development brings faster genotyping testing from high-throughput to point-of-care.
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New Paradigm Molecular Pathology: Early-Stage Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) Biomarker-Informed Treatment and Longitudinal Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) Monitoring |
Recent studies indicate that biomarker-informed adjuvant therapy selection in early-stage NSCLC can extend disease-free survival. Genotype may indicate a benefit from targeted therapy; however, PD-L1 expression can be a negative predictive factor (e.g. EGFR+ NSCLC treated with a Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI). Considering both stage and mutation/PD-L1 status is critical when choosing between targeted therapy, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy for adjuvant treatment. Real-world survival data indicates poor prognosis in patients with locoregional recurrence. There is a need for new diagnostic tools to detect molecular recurrence through minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring, enabling earlier and potentially more efficacious treatment for NSCLC. |
Supporting Precision Medicine with Advanced Sequencing Offerings for Solid Tumor and Hematologic Malignancies |
Precision medicine has become increasingly important for management of cancer patients including comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) and molecular residual disease (MRD). Join us to learn more about NeoGenomics suite of advanced sequencing tests. NeoComprehensive™ – Solid Tumor and NeoComprehensive™ – Myeloid leverage both DNA and RNA sequencing analysis to detect multiple classes of genomic alterations that are relevant for diagnosis, therapy selection, prognosis, and clinical trials. RaDaR® is a personalized liquid biopsy test for the detection of MRD and recurrence, detecting the trace amounts of ctDNA that remain after surgery or other curative intent treatment, and early signs of relapse. |
Understanding Spatial Relationships in an Era of Digital Pathology |
How cells are spatially organized and interact with one another to affect the tumor microenvironment (TME) is critical to improving novel biomarker drug development and advancing cancer research. Utility of MultiOmyx™, a proprietary multiplexed immunofluorescence (IF) technology enables visualization and characterization of multiple biomarkers on a single FFPE tissue section. By utilizing deep learning and advanced cell classification algorithms, our novel approach to spatial analysis uncovers the complex interplay between infiltrating immune cells and relevant immuno-oncology biomarkers, and provides a detailed analysis of specific cell phenotypes that may help in predicting clinical responses and mechanisms of resistance to therapy.
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Reagents for Molecular Diagnostics Workflows: Removing Barriers for Assay Developers |
Nucleic acid enzymes have long powered the chemistries of molecular diagnostics, and as the field moves to rapid POC and field settings, new demands are placed on DNA polymerases, reverse transcriptases, and other key enzymes. Through protein engineering, discovery, and novel mechanisms for control of enzymatic activities, New England Biolabs is enabling this new generation of diagnostic applications. Methods and reagents for isothermal amplification and RT-qPCR in particular can benefit from enzyme innovation, robust development, and lyophilization and we will present how our approaches to building better tools and services has benefited both core and developing applications of molecular diagnostics. |
Novel Enzymatic Solutions for DNA NGS Library Prep: 5mC and 5hmC Detection and FFPE Samples |
Identification of 5mC and 5hmC in DNA provides insight into epigenome dynamics. Bisulfite sequencing has commonly been used to detect these modifications, but the chemical-based conversion damages and degrades DNA, introducing bias into the data. To overcome this, we developed an enzymatic approach termed NEBNext® Enzymatic Methyl-seq (EM-seqTM). EM-seq outperforms bisulfite converted libraries in all metrics examined including coverage, duplication, sensitivity, and nucleotide composition. Additional optimizations have also been incorporated into an upcoming EM-seq v2 kit that will streamline the workflow, minimize hands on time, and enable robust methylation profiling on inputs as low as 100 pg. |
Localized NGS-based Methylation Testing to Help Inform BioPharma Clinical Trials and Improve Patient Care in Oncology |
DNA methylation testing can help provide clinicians and researchers with valuable insight into gene regulation and identify potential biomarkers for therapy selection and clinical trial enrollment. NGS testing has provided the ability to interrogate key biomarkers in a cost-effective and high-throughput manner. In this workshop we will explore and present data on the emerging role for highly accurate and sensitive kitted NGS methylation assays in oncology leveraging Pillar Biosciences SLIMamp technology. We will also be presenting new emerging data suggesting an important clinical role for methylation testing beyond HRD score to help to inform patients response to PARPi therapy. |
Highly Accurate and Automated NGS Assays for Efficient Localized LBx and TBx Clinical Testing in Oncology |
Multiple clinical advantages exist by localizing NGS clinical testing. We will discuss how Pillar’s oncoReveal™ NGS products, powered by SLIMamp® technology and automated workflows provide accurate and actionable results to allow clinicians to make timely and informed therapeutic decisions. The presentations from this workshop cover the rigorous evaluation and clinical validation of Pillar’s solid tumor & liquid biopsy NGS products, automation solutions and how Pillar’s Decision Medicine™ solutions, including FDA approved IVD can enable better, more informed outcomes for everyone, everywhere. |
dPCR Technologies Enable Treatment and Response Monitoring in Patients Affected by Solid Tumors |
Advancements in molecular analysis technologies enhance understanding of tumor biology, optimizing cancer patient management. Cell-free DNA (cfDNA), found in plasma and body fluids, offers tumor-derived genetic material, an alternative to tissue samples.
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Expanding Sensitivity and Precision of Oncology Assays with Roche Digital PCR and qPCR
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(LDT) plays a vital role in helping healthcare institutions defend against outbreaks and manage disease proliferation. Learn how industry peers have used the cobas omni Utility Channel to automate their solution to deliver innovative, effective, and efficient testing solutions.
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Tick Uptick! Tick Populations are Increasing - What Can We Do About It? |
Tickborne infections are on the rise and are frequently misdiagnosed due to under recognition of these pathogens and lack of access to quality diagnostic tests. Current serologic methods lack specificity and cannot differentiate past from current infection. Microscopic examination suffers from poor sensitivity and relies on experienced laboratory technologists to recognize potential pathogens. Molecular methods have the potential to provide sensitive and specific detection of tickborne pathogens in a single blood specimen. In this workshop Dr. Blake W. Buchan, PhD, D(ABMM) will review the changing epidemiology of tickborne infections and share data demonstrating the benefits of NAATs for accurate diagnosis. |
Accelerating Research with Fast, Flexible, and Cost-Efficient Next-Generation Sequencing on the G4 Platform |
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has become a foundational tool for both biological research and in-vitro diagnostics, particularly in oncology, immunology, and detection of genetic disorders. Despite its success, limitations of traditional NGS systems include long analysis times and high cost due to batching related inefficiencies.
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Considerations Surrounding the Implementation of a Complete Syndromic Molecular Workflow for the Identification of Infectious Gastroenteritis Causing Pathogens |
Join us in Salt lake City, Utah, at AMP 2023, for a conversation with Amanda Hancock and Greg Behringer from Genesis Laboratory Management, LLC. They will discuss implementing syndromic testing for enteric pathogens, selecting clinically relevant targets like Clostridioides difficile, and incorporating genotypic antimicrobial resistance into panel workflows. |
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Join us at AMP 2023, where Dr.Vijay Singh, Vice President of HealthTrackRx, a leading molecular PCR-based infectious disease laboratory, will discuss the development and validation of a laboratory developed, multiplex real-time PCR test for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhea (NG), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) on two separate PCR platforms. He will show how the test displayed high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for the tested pathogens in different patient sample types. In addition, Dr. Singh will discuss the viability of using urine, a non-invasive sample type, for testing STIs.
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Biomarker Assessment Through Comprehensive Genomic Profiling
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Demonstration of Next Generation Software for Molecular Testing Workflows from Sample Preparation to qPCR Analysis
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Unlocking Efficiency and Accuracy: Solutions for High Throughput Sample Extraction and Digital PCR Testing |
Efficient and accurate sample analysis plays a crucial role in advancing cancer research and optimizing workflows. This presentation emphasizes the importance of efficient and accurate sample analysis in cancer research and workflow optimization. We explore the benefits of leveraging streamlined, scalable workflows for sample processing and digital PCR analysis. Using a modular approach, researchers simplify sample extraction and integrate with high-throughput digital PCR solutions. Additionally, accurate digital PCR and unique assay design helps enable multiplexing of targets, providing more comprehensive information from limited materials. These advancements help contribute to the progress of liquid biopsy research. |
Advancing Research in Liquid Biopsy: Updates from University of Leicester, Leicester Cancer Research Center
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