Multisite verification of the accuracy of a multi-gene next generation sequencing panel for detection of mutations and copy number alterations in solid tumours

PLoS One. 2021 Oct 1;16(10):e0258188. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258188. eCollection 2021.

Abstract

Molecular variants including single nucleotide variants (SNVs), copy number variants (CNVs) and fusions can be detected in the clinical setting using deep targeted sequencing. These assays support low limits of detection using little genomic input material. They are gaining in popularity in clinical laboratories, where sample volumes are limited, and low variant allele fractions may be present. However, data on reproducibility between laboratories is limited. Using a ring study, we evaluated the performance of 7 Ontario laboratories using targeted sequencing panels. All laboratories analysed a series of control and clinical samples for SNVs/CNVs and gene fusions. High concordance was observed across laboratories for measured CNVs and SNVs. Over 97% of SNV calls in clinical samples were detected by all laboratories. Whilst only a single CNV was detected in the clinical samples tested, all laboratories were able to reproducibly report both the variant and copy number. Concordance for information derived from RNA was lower than observed for DNA, due largely to decreased quality metrics associated with the RNA components of the assay, suggesting that the RNA portions of comprehensive NGS assays may be more vulnerable to variations in approach and workflow. Overall the results of this study support the use of the OFA for targeted sequencing for testing of clinical samples and suggest specific internal quality metrics that can be reliable indicators of assay failure. While we believe this evidence can be interpreted to support deep targeted sequencing in general, additional studies should be performed to confirm this.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • DNA Copy Number Variations / genetics*
  • DNA, Neoplasm / genetics
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing*
  • Humans
  • Mutation / genetics
  • Neoplasm Proteins / genetics
  • Neoplasm Proteins / isolation & purification*
  • Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / pathology
  • RNA, Neoplasm / genetics

Substances

  • DNA, Neoplasm
  • Neoplasm Proteins
  • RNA, Neoplasm

Grants and funding

This study was conducted with the support of the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research through funding provided by the Government of Ontario. Research support was provided by ThermoFisher through provision of in-kind reagents and analysis of results. The funder provided support in the form of in-kind reagents to all participating laboratories but did not have any additional role in the study design, data collection, decision to publish or preparation of the manuscript. One author employed by the funder (VM) assisted with data analysis. The specific roles of these authors are articulated in the author contributions section.