Caris Life Sciences Adds DPYD Variant Profiling to Caris Assure Assay
Caris Life Sciences has added DPYD genetic variant reporting to its Caris Assure blood-based whole exome and transcriptome sequencing assay, enabling simultaneous tumor and inherited variant profiling from a single blood draw. Integration addresses FDA labeling updates on fluoropyrimidine toxicity and could expand assay adoption among colorectal cancer patients.
1. Integration of DPYD Testing into Caris Assure
Caris Life Sciences has incorporated DPYD gene variant reporting into its Caris Assure blood-based whole exome and transcriptome sequencing assay, allowing clinicians to detect inherited DPD deficiency variants alongside tumor biomarkers from a single blood sample.
2. Clinical Significance of DPYD Variants
Inherited variants in the DPYD gene can reduce dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase enzyme activity and elevate risk of severe toxicity from fluoropyrimidine therapies such as capecitabine and 5-FU, prompting FDA updates to safety labeling that recommend pre-treatment genetic screening.
3. Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month Initiative
During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Caris highlighted rising incidence among younger adults and inconsistent DPYD testing across care settings, advocating for earlier pharmacogenomic profiling to improve treatment safety and personalize care.
4. Implications for Caris Life Sciences
By expanding its molecular profiling platform to include pharmacogenomic data, Caris aims to enhance the clinical value of its assays and capture additional market share in precision oncology diagnostics for colorectal cancer patients.