Process Doubles Accuracy of Genetic Tests

A new process can offer significant improvement in accurately identifying hereditary mutations or abnormalities in people.

Conventional genomic DNA sequencing analyzes both copies of a chromosome at the same time. However, the DNA sequence of the normal copy of one allele can mask or hide genetic mutations or deleted DNA sequences on the other allele, which can result in missed genetic mutations associated with hereditary diseases. The new process, called Conversion Technology, separates the chromosomes and allows for more accurate analysis of potential abnormalities.

In a study published in the February 16, 2005, issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, investigators found a 56% improvement in the diagnosis of abnormalities, which would have been missed completely by conventional DNA sequencing. The study, conducted by researchers at the Cleveland Clinic (OH, USA) made use of a registry of colon cancer families. The results showed that conversion analysis allows for comprehensive detection of abnormalities and clear interpretation of normal results from genetic testing.

Conversion Technology, based on discoveries by scientists at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center (Baltimore, MD, USA), was developed by GMP Genetics, Inc. (Ft. Lauderdale, FL, USA). The company recently sublicensed its enhanced high-throughput clinical platform for conversion analysis to Mayo Medical Laboratories (Rochester, NY, USA).

"We are very excited to have been able to make a significant contribution to the field of genetics,” said Michael Salem, M.D., senior scientific advisor to GMP Companies. "We can now suggest to people who have family histories of colorectal cancer that they seek out testing centers which utilize the Conversion Technology for a more accurate diagnosis of their predisposition to colorectal cancer.”





Related Links:
Cleveland Clinic
GMP Genetics