ASO Author Reflections: Circulating Neuroendocrine Gene Transcripts (NETest): A Promising Biomarker for Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumours (PanNET)
The NETest exhibited a 93% sensitivity and 89% specificity in identifying and differentiating lung malignancies including NSCLC from NETs.
Surgery significantly reduced NETest levels consistent with removal of the source of the circulating gene expression. In those with surgical cures (NED – no evidence of disease), elevated levels after surgery predicted disease recurrence.
Current biomarkers used in broncopulmonary neuroendocrine tumor management are single analytes and have a low utility, e.g., CgA (Chromogranin A) or NSE (neuron specific enolase). Blood NET gene levels accurately identified BPNETs (100%) and differentiated these from controls, benign and malignant lung disease.
