Series 5 Episode 3 - Liquid Biopsy Testing Genomics Pilot: A Partnership between the NHS and Industry

Welcome to Genomics Now, a podcast series where you can learn how genomics is developing in England's NHS. This podcast series is recorded in 2024 and is part of the North Thames Genomic Medicine Service's educational toolkit.

In each bite-sized episode, we explore what is changing in genomics. We answer the questions on genomics we've been asked by different healthcare professionals, discuss the ways genomics may impact various healthcare roles, and how genomics can be used to improve patient care successfully.

In this episode, Dr. Shazia Mahamdallie is joined by Stephen Kelly, UK Medical Director at Guardant Health, and Dr. Sophie Scott, UK General Manager at Guardant Health. Together, they discuss the role of liquid biopsy technology - a revolutionary blood test used to detect circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in cancer patients - and explore its potential in transforming cancer diagnosis and treatment, especially for lung cancer.

This episode covers the evolving partnership between Guardant Health and The Royal Marsden Hospital London, which is at the forefront of piloting liquid biopsy testing in NHS patient pathways. Stephen and Sophie share insights on how this partnership has helped to drive clinical research and improved patient care, speeding up diagnoses and treatment decisions.

Join us for an insightful conversation on the future of liquid biopsy testing, its current applications, and the exciting possibilities for further advancements in genomics.

Visit our website for more resources and updates on genomic-based clinical developments and research. If you've enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share your thoughts and spread the word by tagging the North Thames Genomic Medicine Service on social media