[Processing of morphological material for molecular genetic tests].

Molecular genetic analysis has become a mandatory component of cancer diagnostics. Preanalytical step for DNA and RNA analysis is a complex process requiring tight interaction between surgeons, pathologists and molecular geneticists. This article discusses key aspects of handling of the tissues before DNA- and RNA-testing.

[Assessment of applicability of archived cytological lung cancer specimens for molecular genetic analysis].

Molecular genetic analysis of lung tumors is often essential for the proper choice of therapy. EGFR mutation is a well-known marker of sensitivity to gefitinib, erlotinib and afatinib; ALK-translocations make tumor sensitive to several ALK inhibitors; low intratumoral expression of DNA repair genes (ERCC1, BRCA1, etc.) may increase the therapeutic index of platinum-based drugs.