What is EML4-ALK?
Approximately 80% of lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) 1. The anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene frequently involves in gene fusions that lead to lung cancer. One of its most frequent fusion partners in NSCLC is the echinoderm microtubule-associated protein-like 4 (EML4) gene.
How does EML4-ALK cause cancer?
EML4-ALK fusion proteins cause cancer by activating the signaling pathway that causes uncontrolled cell growth in lungs. This eventually progresses into cancer.
Why is detecting EML4-ALK fusions important?
Knowing the existence of EML4-ALK fusion not only helps physicians identify the root cause of cancer, but also helps in selecting the most effective therapy for patients with NSCLC. Inhibition of ALK may be an effective treatment approach for patients with ALK-positive tumors2, 3, but its efficacy varies among the different types of EML4-ALK fusions3, 4. Finding this information can provide better treatment for patients.
Who should consider this test?
Patients who are suffering from NSCLC and/or patients who have received targeted therapy and failed to show signs of recovery are advised to perform this test.
Test Specifications
What should I do if my test results are positive?
Please consult your physicians for professional advices.
- Jemal, Ahmedin, et al. "Global cancer statistics." CA: a cancer journal for clinicians 61.2 (2011): 69-90.
- Shaw, Alice T., et al. "Clinical features and outcome of patients with non–small-cell lung cancer who harbor EML4-ALK." Journal of Clinical Oncology 27.26 (2009): 4247-4253.
- Horn, Leora, and William Pao. "EML4-ALK: Honing in on a new target in non–small-cell lung cancer." Journal of Clinical Oncology 27.26 (2009): 4232-4235.
- Kwak, Eunice L., et al. "Anaplastic lymphoma kinase inhibition in non–small-cell lung cancer." New England Journal of Medicine 363.18 (2010): 1693-1703.