Genomes for Kids (G4K)

Summary

The development of next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques, including whole genome (WGS), exome (WES) and RNA sequencing has revolutionized the ability of investigators to query the molecular mechanisms underlying tumor formation. Through the Pediatric Cancer Genome Project (PCGP), investigators at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (SJCRH) have successfully used NGS approaches to evaluate more than 1,000 pediatric cancers ranging from hematologic malignancies to central nervous system (CNS) and non-CNS solid tumors. From these and related studies, it has become clear that genomic approaches can accurately classify tumors into distinct pathologic and prognostic subtypes and detect alterations in cellular pathways that may serve as novel therapeutic targets. Collectively, these studies suggest that by characterizing the genomic make-up of individual tumors, investigators will be able to develop personalized and potentially more effective cancer treatments and/or preventive measures. This protocol was initially enacted to usher NGS approaches into routine clinical care. During the initial phase of the G4K protocol, 310 participants were recruited and enrolled onto the study. Tumor and/or germline sequencing was completed on all 310 patients, with 253 somatic reports generated (representing 96% of the 263 participants for whom tumor tissue was available and analyzed) and 301 germline reports generated (100% of the 301 participants who agreed to the receipt of germline results). Analyses of the study data are ongoing with plans to prepare initial manuscripts within the next several months. Due to the successful initial execution of the G4K protocol, clinical genomic sequencing of tumor and germline samples is now offered as part of standard clinical care for pediatric oncology patients at St. Jude. The G4K protocol has now been revised. With the revision, the study team will record, store and analyze germline and tumor genomic information. Through the collection of these data, we will examine how germline mutations in 150 cancer predisposition genes influence clinical presentation, tumor histology, tumor genomic findings, response to therapy and long-term outcomes. The overall goals of this research are to further define the prevalence, spectrum and heritability of germline variants in these genes and to decipher how germline mutations influence the phenotypes of an expanding array of cancer predisposition syndromes. These studies allow us to provide more accurate genetic counseling and management strategies to future children harboring mutations in these genes. This remains a non-therapeutic study. Investigators anticipate a sample size of approximately 2500 patients who will be recruited over the next 7 years.

Detailed description

PRIMARY OBJECTIVES: * To use clinical genomic sequencing to define the prevalence and spectrum of germline mutations in cancer predisposition genes in children with cancer. * For those identified with germline mutations, to correlate germline genomic information with clinical presentation, tumor genomic findings, treatment response, and outcome. OTHER PRESPECIFIED OBJECTIVES: * To generate and analyze data describing patient/parent perceptions of genomic investigations and research at various time points throughout the study. * To generate and analyze data surrounding the return of genomic sequencing results, examine patient/parent understanding of these results and assess the impact of results on patients and families. * To determine the feasibility and reliability of performing WES and RNA sequencing on derivatives from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor samples alongside the analysis of matched frozen tumor and germline samples. For participants who give consent, a normal tissue sample will be obtained and used for WGS, WES and RNA sequence analysis. A defined list of 150 genes will be analyzed for reporting using the normal tissue. Once the results of these analyses are available, they will be disclosed to physicians, patients and parents. Mixed measures approaches will be used to assess understanding, acceptance and impact of genomic results on patients and parents. During the course of the study, the investigators anticipate the list of genes to be reported using normal tissue to change due to advances in the literature or other evidence linking additional genes to tumor formation and cancer risk, and new lists may be defined. To assess provider, patient and family understanding and describe the impacts of genomic testing and return of results, this study will also incorporate administration of surveys and semi-structured interviews. Surveys and interviews are optional, but will be offered to all primary SJCRH providers, as well as all eligible participants and parents, regardless of whether or not they consent to pursue the genomic testing. A sample of blood or a skin biopsy will be obtained as a source of germline DNA. This sample is necessary as it is the comparator against which tumor samples are evaluated. Skin biopsies may be done on patients who have a diagnosis where peripheral blood is likely to be contaminated by tumor cells.

Arms & interventions

• OtherStudy Introduction Visit

  Within 5±3 weeks following arrival at SJCRH, or at the participant/family's convenience, participants will meet with a genetic counselor and clinician, provide information for a family pedigree, undergo a physical and discuss germline testing options. Study introduction materials will be provided. Families interested in the G4K study will be referred to the study nurse or other G4K member and an Informed consent visit will be scheduled.

• OtherInformed Consent Visit

  Within 1±3 weeks following the Study Introduction Visit, or at the participant/family's convenience, the research nurse or other study team member will consent the family and collect demographic and medical information. Participants will complete assessment questionnaires.

• OtherInformed Consent Follow-Up Visit

  At or after enrollment but before the release of the gerline results, or at the participant/family's convenience, a subset of participants (30-40) will participate in semi-structured interviews.

• OtherReturn of Results Conversation

  Participants will complete the assessment questionnaires.

• OtherReturn of Results Follow-Up Visits

  Return of Results Follow-Up Visits will be conducted twice: the first within 8±4 weeks of the Return of Results Conversation, or at the participant/family's convenience, and the second within 28 ± 4 weeks of the Return of Results Conversation or at the participant/family's convenience. At each visit, participants will complete assessment questionnaires. Semi-structured interviews with parents and adolescents will be conducted.

• ProcedureBlood Sample

  For patients who have not previously provided a blood sample, a sample of blood will be obtained as a source of germline DNA.

• ProcedureSkin Biopsy

  After consent, for participants with a diagnosis where peripheral blood is likely to be contaminated by tumor cells, skin biopsies may be done as a source of germline DNA.

Outcome measures

Eligibility criteria