Biomarker testing has become central to the diagnosis and management of non-small cell lung cancer, yet the rapid expansion of actionable targets and testing technologies has introduced new challenges for pathology and laboratory teams. In this episode, expert panelists reflect on how NSCLC biomarker testing has evolved over the past decade, driven by advances in targeted therapies, next-generation sequencing, and professional practice guidelines.
The discussion focuses on the clinical relevance of emerging biomarkers, the rationale behind broad molecular profiling, and real-world decision-making around testing strategies and platform selection. Panelists also address practical considerations such as tissue stewardship in small biopsies, coordination across multidisciplinary care teams, and the expanding leadership role of pathologists in ensuring timely, appropriate, and equitable access to biomarker testing for patients with NSCLC.
Course topics include:
- Evolution of NSCLC biomarker testing and its impact on precision oncology
- Current and emerging biomarkers in NSCLC, including HER2, TROP2, and HER3
- Laboratory workflows, testing strategies, and tissue stewardship to support comprehensive biomarker assessment
Target Audience
This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of pathologists and laboratory professionals.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, you will be able to:
- Discuss current and emerging biomarkers for NSCLC and their relevance to evolving targeted therapies
- Identify practice guideline–recommended approaches to biomarker testing and testing strategy selection in NSCLC
- Apply practical specimen-handling and laboratory workflow strategies to optimize tissue utilization and support comprehensive, equitable biomarker testing
Faculty
Ying-Chun Lo, M.D., Ph.D., Associate Professor and Consultant
Divisions of Anatomic Pathology and Laboratory Genetics and Genomics, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology
Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
Mamatha Chivukula, MD, FASCP
Sutter Health,
San Francisco, California
Faculty Disclosures
Dr. Chivukula has no financial relationships to disclose. All relevant financial relationships for Dr. Lo have been mitigated.
Accreditation Statement
The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education (CME) for physicians.
Credit Designation Statement
The ASCP designates this activity for a maximum of .75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)â„¢. Physicians should claim only credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
ASCP designates this activity for a maximum of .75 CMLE credit. This activity meets CMP and state re-licensure requirements for laboratory personnel.
For questions regarding CME credit, please contact ASCP Customer Service at 1-800-267-2727, option 2, in the US & Canada or internationally at access code + 3-1-312-541-4890. Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm CT.
Method of Participation
To complete the activity and receive credit, the participant must participate in the online activity. CME certificates will be provided online.
Commercial Support
This activity is supported by independent educational grants from AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals and Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.