University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) and AGTC Genomics Partner to Strengthen Precision Oncology Awareness and Personalised Cancer Care
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) and AGTC Genomics are working together to strengthen awareness of precision oncology and the role of genomic testing in helping oncologists make more informed treatment and monitoring decisions.
Two patients with the same cancer diagnosis may respond differently to the same medicine because their tumours carry different molecular changes. Precision oncology examines these differences to help identify suitable targeted therapies, immunotherapies and clinical trial opportunities, while supporting more personalised follow-up.
The collaboration brings clinical expertise and local genomic capabilities together, helping healthcare professionals understand when to test, which test to choose and how to interpret results in the context of each patient’s care.
Genomic insights across the cancer care journey
AGTC Genomics offers a portfolio of cancer genomic tests addressing different clinical questions:
OncoDx™ Comprehensive Genomic Profiling analyses tumour DNA and RNA to identify mutations, gene fusions and other treatment-relevant alterations, alongside biomarkers such as microsatellite instability and tumour mutational burden. Broad profiling can conserve limited tissue by assessing multiple biomarkers together.
OncoInsightDx™ provides cancer-specific targeted genomic testing focused on actionable biomarkers relevant to particular tumour types, supporting a more focused and accessible testing pathway.
LiquidDx™ analyses circulating tumour DNA in blood to identify treatment-relevant alterations, particularly when tumour tissue is insufficient or difficult to obtain, and can help investigate emerging treatment resistance.
CancerTRACE™ supports assessment of molecular residual disease (MRD) and recurrence risk through blood-based monitoring of tumour-derived DNA after treatment.
CancerRiskDx™ assesses inherited cancer susceptibility, helping inform genetic counselling, personalised surveillance and appropriate testing of relatives.
CancerScreenDx™ is a multi-cancer early detection blood test intended to complement appropriate screening pathways. A positive signal requires diagnostic investigation, and a negative result does not exclude cancer.
For oncologists, these tools can clarify treatment options and support multidisciplinary discussions. For patients, the potential benefits include better matching to suitable medicines, fewer sequential tests and a clearer understanding of treatment and follow-up plans. Benefits depend on the findings, clinical context and access to appropriate care.
Matching lung cancer treatment to an EGFR alteration
For a patient with advanced non-small cell lung cancer, OncoDx™ or an appropriate targeted panel could identify a sensitising EGFR alteration. This finding can help the oncologist select an EGFR-targeted treatment, such as osimertinib, when clinically appropriate. If tissue is limited, LiquidDx™ may provide useful molecular information; a negative blood result may still require tissue testing. The value is a treatment decision informed by the tumour’s biology.
Identifying an immunotherapy option in colorectal cancer
In metastatic colorectal cancer, OncoDx™ can assess microsatellite instability. An MSI-high result, interpreted with appropriate pathology and clinical findings, can identify patients who may benefit from immune checkpoint inhibitors, including pembrolizumab. Profiling of other biomarkers, such as KRAS, NRAS and BRAF, further informs treatment planning. This helps oncologists explain why patients with the same cancer type may need different medicines.
Monitoring molecular residual disease after colorectal cancer surgery
After surgery, imaging may show no visible disease while small amounts of tumour DNA remain detectable in blood. CancerTRACE™ can support serial MRD assessment in suitable patients. Persistent or reappearing ctDNA can signal increased recurrence risk and prompt specialist review, further investigation or consideration of clinical trials. A negative result does not guarantee cure. MRD findings complement imaging and clinical assessment; their use to change treatment depends on evidence for the specific cancer and setting.
Quality that supports clinical confidence
AGTC Genomics operates an ISO 15189- and College of American Pathologists (CAP)-accredited laboratory in Malaysia. These accreditations reinforce its commitment to laboratory quality, technical competence and reliable clinical testing. Clinically meaningful genomic care also requires validated assays, careful interpretation and close communication between laboratory specialists and treating clinicians.
A close clinical research partner
The relationship between UMMC and AGTC Genomics extends beyond diagnostic services. AGTC Genomics is pleased to be a close clinical research partner, with the collaboration contributing to several successful grant applications and scientific publications. This shared work connects clinical questions with genomic expertise and supports the development of evidence relevant to Malaysian patients.
By combining awareness, accredited testing and collaborative research, UMMC and AGTC Genomics aim to help more patients benefit from informed, personalised cancer care. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to turning scientific progress into practical clinical value and renewed hope for patients and their families.
About AGTC Genomics
AGTC Genomics is a Malaysian precision medicine and advanced molecular diagnostics company providing genomic testing and research services across oncology, inherited diseases, infectious diseases and precision health. Its advanced genomics laboratory in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, holds ISO 15189, ISO/IEC 17025 and College of American Pathologists (CAP) accreditations.
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