New Delhi — Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute & Research Centre (RGCIRC) concluded FESTOMICS-2, a two-day academic programme focused on “Precision Through Omics,” held on January 30 and 31 at its Rohini campus.
The programme brought together specialists in pathology, molecular diagnostics, oncology and translational research to discuss the role of omics-based technologies in cancer care. According to the organisers, the sessions examined how genomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics and metabolomics are being applied in cancer diagnosis, risk assessment and treatment selection.
Academic discussions covered topics including cancer genomics, next-generation sequencing, PCR-based diagnostics, fluorescence in situ hybridisation, liquid biopsy, methylation classifiers and metabolomics. Speakers also addressed practical challenges in molecular diagnostics, such as quality control, test selection, data interpretation and clinical relevance.
Case-based sessions focused on integrating molecular data into clinical decision-making. These discussions explored how molecular findings may inform therapeutic choices, prognostication and multidisciplinary tumour board deliberations across solid tumours and hematological malignancies. Emerging biomarkers in cancers such as breast, lung, prostate, sarcoma, thyroid and paediatric malignancies were also discussed.
Dr. (Col. Retd.) Anurag Mehta, principal director of laboratory services and transfusion medicine at RGCIRC and organising chairman of the programme, said molecular diagnostics are now part of routine oncology practice and highlighted the need to translate complex molecular data into clinical decisions.
The programme featured faculty from oncology centres, tertiary cancer care institutions and diagnostic laboratories across India. Interactive sessions and panel discussions encouraged multidisciplinary engagement, according to the organisers.
The conference concluded with closing remarks by Dr. Sunil Pasricha, senior consultant in histopathology at RGCIRC and organising secretary for the event, who emphasised continued learning and ethical application of molecular technologies in patient care.
