Insights into the genomics of multiple myeloma – new drug targets and when to do a genomic analysis

Nikhil Munshi, MD from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA gives an overview of the data presented on the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) genomics program in multiple myeloma (MM) at the Myeloma 2016 meeting held in Boston, MA. The summary of the DNA data shows many mutations whereby no single mutation is more frequent that 20%. The data provides information on potential new targets, such as in the RAS, RAF and p53 pathway. Further, there are multiple clones in myeloma, which change over time which means that genomic analysis at diagnosis may not be adequate. Moreover, Dr Munshi discusses the development of targeted platforms and how this smaller size method can identify common mutation for prognosis, to find targets and to treat patients.