Two-Time Multiplexed Targeted Next-Generation Sequencing Might Help the Implementation of Germline Screening Tools for Myelodysplastic Syndromes/Hematologic Neoplasms

Abstract

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) tools have importantly helped the classification of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), guiding the management of patients. However, new concerns are under debate regarding their implementation in routine clinical practice for the identification of germline predisposition. Cost-effective targeted NGS tools would improve the current standardized studies and genetic counseling. Here, we present our experience in a preliminary study detecting variants using a two-time multiplexed library strategy. Samples from different MDS patients were first mixed before library preparation and later multiplexed for a sequencing run. Two different mixes including a pool of three (3×) and four (4×) samples were evaluated. The filtered variants found in the individually sequenced samples were compared with the variants found in the two-time multiplexed studies to determine the detection efficiency scores. The same candidate variants were found in the two-time multiplexed studies in comparison with the individual tNGS. The variant allele frequency (VAF) values of the candidate variants were also compared. No significant differences were found between the expected and observed VAF percentages in both the 3× (p-value 0.74) and 4× (p-value 0.34) multiplexed studies. Our preliminary results suggest that the two-time multiplexing strategy might have the potential to help reduce the cost of evaluating germline predisposition.