Haystack Oncology develops a tumor-informed, next-generation minimal residual disease (MRD) test that detects ultralow levels of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from blood samples to identify residual cancer post-treatment. This technology enables earlier detection of disease recurrence and informs treatment decisions, improving patient outcomes in oncology care.
Funding
Funding not disclosed
Founders
Product
Problem
Detecting minimal residual disease (MRD) after cancer treatment is challenging, especially when circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels are extremely low. Current methods may lack the sensitivity needed for early detection of recurrence or accurate assessment of treatment response.
Solution
Haystack Oncology offers Haystack MRD, a tumor-informed, next-generation sequencing assay designed for highly sensitive detection of ctDNA in post-treatment cancer patients. This MRD test uses a personalized approach, tracking up to 50 variants to achieve a limit of detection of 0.0006% tumor fraction. By identifying even trace amounts of residual disease, Haystack MRD enables clinicians to make more informed decisions regarding adjuvant therapy, monitor treatment response more effectively, and detect disease recurrence earlier than traditional methods. The assay is powered by Quest Diagnostics' infrastructure, ensuring end-to-end reliability in testing, logistics, and reporting.
Target Audience
The primary audience includes oncologists and biopharmaceutical companies focused on improving treatment strategies and clinical management through precise MRD assessment in patients with solid tumors.
Features
- Tumor-informed assay design, creating a personalized MRD test for each patient
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology for ultrasensitive ctDNA detection
- Ability to track up to 50 variants, enhancing detection accuracy
- Exceptionally low limit of detection (0.0006% tumor fraction) for early detection of residual disease
- Comprehensive monitoring of neoadjuvant response, treatment response, and recurrence surveillance
- Seamless integration with Quest Diagnostics' existing oncology testing services