Healthcare Revolution Predicted with Rise of Genomic Testing for Personalized Medicine

A new Frost & Sullivan (Mountain View, CA, USA) analysis has found that the direct-to-individual sector of genomic testing is now thriving, though not without criticism about the potential medical interpretation of some forms of tests that may have been initially requested for nonmedical purposes, such as those for genealogy analysis.

For personalized medicine, the need to better understand an individual’s genetic information has risen. This emerging branch has given birth to companies providing tests to help understand genetic profiles and assess predisposition to inherited and other diseases. From new analysis, Frost & Sullivan reports in “Future of Genomic Testing” that with reduction in sequencing costs companies are providing affordable genetic tests directly to the individuals being tested, generally via e-commerce. However, the clinical accuracy of direct-to-consumer tests has come under scrutiny since single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-based sequencing is not as accurate as more expensive technology platforms such as whole exome or whole genome sequencing.

“Stringent protocols and standardization policies need to be put in place to separate medically-viable genetic tests from the ones catering to sheer curiosity,” said research analyst Madhumitha Rangesa, “The entire industry requires a gold standard approach that establishes a foundation for the development of advanced genetic tests.” Also, genetic information available to the public and stored infinitely in a virtual e-space will bring multiple safety and ethical implications. Apprehensions on potential segregation that could take place, especially by health or life insurance providers, cannot be ignored. And ownership rights of genetic information are not well-regulated, another cause for concern.

Genetic service companies must partner with or hire genetic counselors to clarify and explain test results to end-users in order to improve medical interventions, facilitate informed decisions, and raise awareness on legal issues. To ensure accuracy and credibility, small companies are collaborating with larger laboratories that have the necessary certifications and lab protocols.

“To further enhance genetic tests, several national initiatives that boost funding opportunities have been deployed,” added M. Rangesa, “Organizations like the National Institute of Health are heavily sponsoring academics and industrial research to encourage innovation in this rapidly-evolving landscape.”

The new report, part of the Technical Insights subscription, provides technology snapshots and trends in genomic testing as well as an impact assessment of key players and their pertinent business models. Following extensive interviews with market participants, Frost & Sullivan's expert analysts thoroughly examined whole exome, whole genome, SNP-based, and array-based sequencing.

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