New research from a regional Australian cancer centre has assessed the practical utility of molecular tumour profiling (MTP) for patients with advanced or rare cancers, showing that tailored genomic testing can identify actionable trial matches and facilitate local trial participation.
MTP was offered to patients with advanced or rare malignancies treated at a regional cancer centre as part of the Garvan Research Institute’s Cancer Molecular Screening and Therapeutics (MoST) program. Tumour specimens were analysed in a central laboratory, and results were reviewed by a molecular tumour board, which provided clinicians with a report of identified somatic mutations and corresponding clinical trial opportunities.
In total, 89 patients underwent profiling. Of these, 69 (around 78 per cent) had at least one potential clinical trial match based on the molecular features of their malignancy, underscoring the prevalence of actionable genomic targets in this population.
CLINICAL SUMMARY
What was examined
The real-world utility of molecular tumour profiling for patients with advanced or rare cancers treated at a regional Australian cancer centre, within the MoST program.
Key findings
- Of 89 patients profiled, around 78 per cent had at least one potential molecularly matched clinical trial.
- Eleven patients were enrolled in a matched trial, with most trials delivered locally rather than at metropolitan centres.
- Local trial participation was associated with reduced travel burden and potential cost savings for patients.
Clinical implications
- Actionable molecular targets are common in patients with advanced or rare cancers, including in regional settings.
- Molecular tumour profiling can support personalised care planning and improve access to clinical trials closer to home.
- Expanding local trial availability may help address geographic barriers to precision oncology.
Eleven patients went on to accept enrolment in a matched clinical trial, with 10 of these trials conducted locally at the regional centre rather than at metropolitan referral hospitals. This local delivery of trial care was associated with reduced travel burden and potential cost savings for patients, reflecting a meaningful benefit for those living outside major cities.
The authors note that while not all patients with actionable targets enrol in trials, the high proportion of patients with molecularly matched opportunities suggests significant value in routine tumour profiling for patients with challenging cancers in regional settings. They also highlight the potential for cost savings and improved accessibility when trials can be delivered closer to home.
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These findings support the broader use of genomic profiling to inform personalised care planning and to broaden access to precision oncology options for patients in non-metropolitan areas, where traditional barriers may otherwise limit participation in cutting-edge research.
Paper: Chilko, N., et al. The Utility of Molecular Tumor Profiling for Patients With Advanced or Rare Cancer in a Regional Australian Setting. Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology. First published: 30 December 2025. Access online here.
