Mohammad Taghi Akbari - Medical Genetics Department, Faculty of Medical Sciences, TarbiatModares University, Tehran, ۲. Tehran Medical Genetics Laboratory, Taleghani Ave, Tehran, Iran

Purpose of the review—We are currently on the threshold of a revolution in breast cancer research thanks to the emergence of novel technologies based on next generation sequencing (NGS). Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is arguably one of the most significant technological advances in the biological sciences of the last 30 years. In this review, we will describe the impact of this technology on breast cancer diagnosis, research and treatment. Recent findings—NGS is now maturing to the point where it is being considered by many laboratories for routine diagnostic use. The sensitivity, speed and reduced cost per sample make it a highly attractive platform compared to other sequencing modalities. Moreover, current advances and promises of next generation sequencing in breast cancer including new insights in cancer progression, genetic monitoring of the disease, presence and relevance of intratumor heterogeneity and identification of new treatment targets will lead us in to genome-informed personalized medicine. Summary—The application of NGS to breast cancer has been associated with tremendous advances and promises for increasing the understanding of the disease. However, one should keep in mind that interpretation and relating of NGS findings to breast cancer progression and treatment is always challenging.