In Quebec, genetic testing for metastatic breast cancer is based exclusively on pathological tissue analysis. However, this approach has its limitations: the tissue may be insufficient, of poor quality or unavailable, preventing essential results from being obtained.
Liquid biopsy, performed using a simple blood sample, is a promising non-invasive option. It can detect genetic alterations from circulating DNA fragments released by tumour cells, without the need for a new biopsy. In Quebec, this technology is currently used only for lung cancer. Given the potential benefits for patients with failed tissue analyses—and who were thus deprived of crucial information to guide their treatment—we launched a pilot project at the CHU de Québec – Université Laval on June 1st, 2025, to offer liquid biopsies to patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
This CHU de Québec – Université Laval project, carried out in partnership with the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec (IUCPQ), carries out genetic analysis of tumour cell fragments released into the bloodstream. To date, our centre is the only one in Quebec that offers liquid biopsies for breast cancers in a clinical setting, and one of the few in Canada to offer this non-research protocol service.
Every month, patients whose disease is progressing gain access to genetic information that would be unavailable otherwise. This innovation paves the way for new treatments, improves quality of life and slows disease progression.
Lead:
Claudie Paquet, Ph.D., Clinical Specialist in Medical Biology, Pathology
Contributors:
Isabelle Brochu, Laboratory Technician
Sophie Pelletier, Laboratory Technician
Annicq Blais, Laboratory Technician
Annick Michaud, Biology Specialist
Chantale Tremblay, Laboratory Technician
Marie-Pier Mercier, Laboratory Technician
