In a significant step toward advancing precision medicine in Sri Lanka, Avon Pharmo Chem successfully partnered with the College of Pathologists of Sri Lanka (CPSL) to host a comprehensive Molecular Diagnostics Workshop. Held at the Auditorium and Molecular Laboratory of the National Cancer Institute of Sri Lanka (NCISL), the event brought together consultants, specialists, and medical students to explore the transformative power of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and advanced molecular workflows.
The workshop served as a vital platform for integrating cutting-edge technology into clinical practice, focusing on enhancing patient quality of life through accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment. Dr. Mangala Bopagoda, President of the CPSL, welcomed the participants and reviewed the core objectives behind the session, emphasizing the need for standardized genomic services
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Expert Insights: The Genomic Frontier in Oncology
The academic sessions featured distinguished speakers who addressed the critical role of genomics across various oncology disciplines:
- Improper Processing and its Impact: Dr. Priyangie Amarabandu, Consultant Histopathologist at NCISL, opened the technical sessions by emphasizing that “quality starts at the surgical theatre”. She detailed how cold ischemia time and suboptimal fixation can adversely affect gene expression and downstream DNA/RNA analysis.
- Adult Oncology and Targeted Therapy: Dr. Vimukthini Peiris, Consultant Clinical Oncologist, highlighted how genetic testing has revolutionized adult cancer care. By identifying mutations in genes such as EGFR, KRAS, and BRCA, clinicians can select highly effective targeted therapies while reducing unnecessary toxicity.
- Paediatric Solid Tumours: Dr. Prabani Maddumarachchi, Head of the Paediatric Blood and Marrow Transplant Unit at NCISL, utilized a case-based approach to demonstrate how molecular diagnostics guide risk stratification in children. She noted that identifying specific fusions, such as PAX3/7-FOXO1 in rhabdomyosarcoma, is essential for accurate diagnosis.
- Innovations in Genomic Solutions: Dr. Aarti Arun Gokhale from Integrated DNA Technologies (IDT) presented oncology research solutions backed by xGen™ and Archer® AMP™ technologies. These tools enable high-performance target enrichment and the detection of known and novel gene fusions even in challenging samples like FFPE tissues.
Driving the Future of Sri Lankan Science
As a premier partner, Avon Pharmo Chem showcased an end-to-end molecular workflow designed to complement the Illumina platform for robust genomics processes. The session highlighted world-class solutions including Altona Diagnostics, IDT’s xGen and Archer products for library preparation, Promega’s Maxwell® RSC System for automated extraction, and Eppendorf epMotion for liquid handling. Essential laboratory tools such as Nishiryo micropipettes, Optika microscopes, and NeoDx RT-PCR kits were also featured as integral components of a precision medicine laboratory.
Group CEO Prasanga Dilip Kumar Fernando shared the latest edition of the Sri Lankan Scientist Magazine with hospital leadership and the CPSL President. The publication ignited immediate interest, leading to preliminary discussions regarding the development of new research initiatives focused on genomics-related works.
Most of the event’s detailed arrangements were overseen by Mr Sameera, the Regional Manager, ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees. For more information, please visit www.avonpc.com
