Pathway genetic cancer tests to use Next Generation Sequencing
Singapore: Pathway Genomics, a genetic testing laboratory, plans to launch its inherited cancer panel with BRCA1 and BRCA2. Inherited BRCA gene mutations are responsible for approximately five percent of breast cancers and about 10-to-15 percent of ovarian cancers.
Pathway Genomics' Hereditary Cancer DNA Insight test utilizes next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology and will analyze genes related to a selection of hereditary cancers including breast, ovarian, colorectal and others. The company notes that it intends to introduce all their cancer panels in August 2013.
Pathway Genomics' genetic tests screen patient DNA using advanced technologies to provide scientifically-validated and actionable information for a wide range of genetic and inherited diseases including recessive diseases, traits that impact heart health, drug response and nutrition.
"I am delighted to see laboratories like Pathway offering genetic tests for inherited cancers," said Dr Linda Wasserman, former director, Clinical Cancer Genetics Care Unit, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, US. "Next-generation sequencing is a critical step in making actionable genetic information more accessible to the physician, ultimately benefitting the patient."
Mr Jim Plante, president and CEO, Pathway, said, "Pathway is committed to innovation in health care and to improving the health of millions of patients with increased risk of developing cancer. We believe Pathway Genomics' Hereditary Cancer DNA InsightSM is an important test in our genetic portfolio and it will enable the medical community to progress towards more personalized health care at an affordable price."
