In the past, resistance mechanisms were usually thought of as static. Our study demonstrates, conversely, that a binary designation of resistance may oversimplify cancer’s true biology. These genetic mutations can fluctuate over time, and some patients can harbor more than one mutation.

In an era where cancer treatment is increasingly personalized to the biology of each individual patient, our findings highlight the importance of molecular testing and the need for improved, noninvasive methods for serial testing.

In the past year, the Vice President’s moonshot initiative has brought critical attention to the need for greater collaboration and innovation in cancer research, and we are invigorated at the prospect of radiation oncology being an instrumental component of future progress. Moving forward, we must maintain the focus on advancing both the science and practice of cancer care while aligning our efforts to move Congress to authorize the $700 million requested by the President for cancer research initiatives. Substantial, predictable financial support is essential to sustain the fight to eradicate cancer.

The goal of ASTRO’s 2016 Annual Meeting is to highlight the latest scientific and technological advances while emphasizing the importance of radiation oncology in providing value to cancer patients through cure and palliation.