Evolution of Translational Omics : Lessons Learned and the Path Forward

Technologies collectively called omics enable simultaneous measurement of an enormous number of biomolecules; for example, genomics investigates thousands of DNA sequences, and proteomics examines large numbers of proteins. Scientists are using these technologies to develop innovative tests to detect disease and to predict a patient's likelihood of responding to specific drugs. Following a recent case involving premature use of omics-based tests in cancer clinical trials at Duke University, the NCI requested that the IOM establish a committee to recommend ways to strengthen omics-based test development and evaluation. This report identifies best practices to enhance development, evaluation, and translation of omics-based tests while simultaneously reinforcing steps to ensure that these tests are appropriately assessed for scientific validity before they are used to guide patient treatment in clinical trials. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction2 Omics-Based Clinical Discovery: Science, Technology, and Applications3 Best Practices for Omics-Based Test Validation Prior to Use for Patient Management Decisions in a Clinical Trial Setting4 Evaluation of Omics-Based Tests for Clinical Utility and Use5 Responsible Parties6 Lessons from the Case StudiesAppendix A: Case StudiesAppendix B: Gene ExpressionBased Tests Developed at Duke University and Used in Clinical TrialsAppendix C: Introduction to BiomarkersAppendix D: Reporting GuidelinesAppendix E: Committee Member and Staff BiographiesAppendix F: Information Gathering Sessionsand SpeakersAcronyms and AbbreviationsGlossary