The launch of a new service in the field of genetics has set a world first in examining the quality of RNA and DNA isolated from specimens during testing, providing an accurate way to improve analysis and determine samples that will generate accurate results opposed to unstable samples. Currently, the most common process by which RNA and DNA samples are preserved is through FFPE (formalin fixation and then paraffin embedded), a process that normally degrades the quality of genetic material. Now however, the US based company AltheaDx has launched its ‘RNA QC’, a service that informs clinical researchers of the accuracy of these results from a patient’s genetic tests.
This provides great benefits to cancer patients in particular and researchers as over 90% of cancer patient specimens are FFPE. It will provide scientists with a way of knowing to what degree RNA or DNA is degraded in a patient FFPE specimen and allow improved analysis of results – for diagnosis, prognosis or prediction of therapeutic response. Furthermore, a good result from genetic testing is directly related to the quality of the sample. The AltheaDx RNA QC service works by examining the integrity of different genes through PCR technology to determine the quality of RNA from a specimen and uses this to predict its level of quality if used in further genetic testing.
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Article reference:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/143716.php
http://www.altheadx.com/newsroom/032409.php?action=fullnews&showcomments=1&id=18
