May 17, 2011

New Hereditary Breast Cancer Test Can Cut Costs

UK-based NewGene has developed a test for hereditary breast cancer that is more time and cost-effective than conventional methods. NewGene uses the Roche 454 GS-FLX next-generation sequencer and the Sequenom MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer, which enables it to introduce a range of clinical

By cms admin

UK-based NewGene has developed a test for hereditary breast cancer that is more time and cost-effective than conventional methods.

NewGene uses the Roche 454 GS-FLX next-generation sequencer and the Sequenom MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer, which enables it to introduce a range of clinical tests.

The test, which combines the sequencing and genotyping technologies, identifies all mutations in the coding regions of two genes associated with inherited breast cancer, BRCA1 and BRCA2.

Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust assistant medical director Michael Wright said the test paves the way for healthcare organisations to improve the speed and quality of the service that they provide to patients and their families whilst halving the cost per test at the same time.

“Our close partnership with NHS organisations means we have access to clinical patient samples that have enabled us to validate our testing and ensure identification of all mutations,” Wright added.

The test aids in the earlier identification of breast cancer risk, and is currently available in France and Germany.