Illumina, Inc., a global biotechnology leader in DNA sequencing and genomics, has announced the launch of the next-generation TruSight Oncology 500 version 2 (TSO 500 v2)—an upgraded cancer research assay designed to advance comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP). This latest version reflects Illumina’s commitment to delivering high-quality, rigorously validated tools that support precision oncology research and broaden access to tumor profiling technologies.
CGP is increasingly recognized as a vital component in precision medicine, offering labs detailed molecular insights to guide therapy selection research and clinical trial matching. TSO 500 v2 provides a streamlined sample-to-report workflow, requiring minimal tissue input and offering enhanced speed and efficiency.
“TSO 500 is a trusted assay used by hundreds of researchers globally. With built-in HRD detection, faster turnaround, and lower tissue requirements, the latest version offers even greater value,” said Everett Cunningham, Chief Commercial Officer at Illumina. “Researchers need end-to-end workflow solutions that make CGP more efficient and scalable—this product delivers on that need.”
From a small tissue sample, TSO 500 v2 analyzes hundreds of cancer-relevant genes across all major variant classes and immuno-oncology biomarkers. Importantly, homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status will now be included in every sample analysis at no extra cost. HRD detection is powered by the Genomic Instability Score (GIS) algorithm licensed from Myriad Genetics—a gold-standard tool in HRD research—enabling deeper insights into the biomarker’s relevance across cancer types.
Early-access users have reported significant improvements:
Dr. Weiyi Chen, Technical Director at siParadigm Diagnostic Informatics, stated: “We observed increased data accuracy with TSO 500 v2 over our current vendor’s solution. The updated workflow is faster, HRD is integrated, and the ability to consolidate our tests on Illumina sequencers helps reduce operational costs.”
Faster, more efficient workflow with reduced turnaround and hands-on time
Highly sensitive variant detection, including improved coverage of challenging genomic regions
HRD analysis included in all samples using Myriad’s GIS algorithm
Sustainability improvements: 50% less packaging, 70% fewer tubes, and a user-friendly color-coded tubing system
Integrated data analysis using DRAGEN and Illumina Connected Insights, or compatibility with third-party solutions like Velsera Clinical Genomics Workspace (CGW)
Broad instrument compatibility with both high- and mid-throughput sequencers
Automation-ready kits and methods (coming soon) for even greater workflow efficiency
Dr. Conxi Lázaro, Lab Director at the Catalan Institute of Oncology, praised the improved kit design: “Fewer boxes and tubes make setup quicker and more organized. Color-coded tubes also reduce potential errors and simplify tracking across workflow steps.”
The TruSight Oncology portfolio includes both research-use-only solutions (such as TSO 500) and in vitro diagnostic assays (like TSO Comprehensive), designed for a wide range of sequencing platforms. In addition, through its collaboration with Pillar Biosciences, Illumina has expanded its offering to include targeted molecular profiling solutions. The oncoReveal CDx IVD kit, developed through this partnership, is expected to become available for order later this quarter.
As a pioneer in genomics, Illumina continues to invest in research and clinical innovation to scale advanced tumor profiling and meet the diverse needs of oncology researchers and clinicians.