NIBSC establishes first WHO international genomic reference panel for KRAS cancer mutations
Last October the World Health Organization (WHO) approved the first international standards for KRAS mutations, to underpin the harmonization of cancer genomic diagnostics.
Produced by scientists at NIBSC, the panel comprises genomic DNA materials covering seven common colorectal cancer (CRC)-associated KRAS mutations. As the only primary standards available for worldwide in vitro diagnostic use in the quantification of KRAS mutations at specific ‘hotspots’ in the gene, this product aims to transform the calibration of kits, assays and secondary standards used in cancer genomic diagnostics.

About the KRAS panel
The available WHO 1st International Reference Panel for genomic KRAS codons 12 and 13 mutations (NIBSC product code 16/250) comprises eight freeze-dried human genomic DNA materials produced from cell lines covering the seven most-common CRC-associated KRAS mutations, as found in codons 12 and 13, plus a wild-type KRAS standard (and diluent).
The panel was validated in a collaborative study involving 56 international laboratories using routine diagnostic methods such as next-generation sequencing (NGS) and PCR.
These reference standards will support cancer genomic diagnostics as they can be used to calibrate diagnostic assays, kits, and secondary standards for the seven most-common KRAS mutations.
Improving cancer diagnosis and treatment
We are the only organisation currently producing primary standards to support cancer genomic diagnostics. This WHO 1st International Reference Panel adds to our growing portfolio of cancer genomic standards aimed at improving the quality and consistency of cancer diagnostics.