Illuminating Breast Cancer Recurrence Risk  |   > Search     |   Take me to: Oncotype - Home Patients and Caregivers - Home Oncotype DX Logistics - Home About Oncotype DX The Role of Oncotype DX Oncotype DX Studies Oncotype DX Logistics Clinical Practice Guidelines Health Insurance Coverage The TAILORx Clinical Trial Frequently Asked Questions About Oncotype DX Oncotype DX Process Advantages of RT-PCR Oncotype DX Development Oncotype DX Results The Role of Oncotype DX Oncotype DX Studies Oncotype DX Logistics Clinical Practice Guidelines Health Insurance Coverage The TAILORx Clinical Trial Frequently Asked Questions Advantages of RT-PCR Oncotype DX® analyzes the expression of a panel of 21 genes from a tumor specimen using a technique called RT-PCR (reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction). A high-throughput, real-time RT-PCR method was developed to analyze the expression of several hundred genes simultaneously. It is sensitive, specific, highly reproducible, and has a wide dynamic range. RT-PCR is a mature technology that is routinely utilized in several clinical applications including viral load testing for HIV. To quantify gene expression, RNA is extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FPET) tumor tissue and subjected to DNase I treatment. Total RNA content is measured and the absence of DNA contamination is verified. Reverse transcription is performed and is followed by quantitative TaqMan® RT-PCR reactions in 384-well plates. The expression of each of 16 genes is measured in triplicate and then normalized relative to a set of five reference genes. The Oncotype DX standardized testing methods have been optimized to minimize variablilty due to: Tissue preparation method: FPET vs. fresh frozen Tumor block age, storage, and variability in preparation Heterogeneity within and between FPET blocks Heterogeneity with respect to enriched tumor and non-tumor areas within an FPET block What's New? November 11, 2008 Genomic Health to Present at Stephens Fall Investment Conference November 10, 2008 Genomic Health Announces Publication of a Study Demonstrating the Oncotype DX(R) Breast Cancer Assay Influences Chemotherapy Treatment Recommendation in 44 Percent of Patients Evaluated

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