Abstract: This invention concerns patentable devices configured to capture cancer stem cells and cell clusters. After capturing such cells and/or clusters, the cancerous cells are subjected to whole genome sequencing. The resulting genomic sequence information is then compared to that for “normal” or non-diseased tissue (obtained, for example, from either the same patient, or a population sample, etc.) in order to identify the specific genetic mutation(s) present in the CSCs. Further analysis then correlates the genetic mutations with cell growth signaling pathways typically found with tumor metastases. Armed with this information, an oncologist can then develop a specifically targeted therapy that utilizes approved drugs or drug candidates undergoing clinical testing to address the identified driver mutations and thus effect a “targeted” therapy tailored to the particular patient's disease.

Abstract: This invention concerns patentable devices configured to capture cancer stem cells and cell clusters. After capturing such cells and/or clusters, the cancerous cells are subjected to whole genome sequencing. The resulting genomic sequence information is then compared to that for “normal” or non-diseased tissue (obtained, for example, from either the same patient, or a population sample, etc.) in order to identify the specific genetic mutation(s) present in the CSCs. Further analysis then correlates the genetic mutations with cell growth signaling pathways typically found with tumor metastases. Armed with this information, an oncologist can then develop a specifically targeted therapy that utilizes approved drugs or drug candidates undergoing clinical testing to address the identified driver mutations and thus effect a “targeted” therapy tailored to the particular patient's disease.