DNA Sequencing at the Doctor's Office

As DNA testing expands and the cost and speed of sequencing equipment improves, it is not out of reach that the half-million dollar sequencers now only available in the best research labs may find their way into routine hospital and physician office labs throughout the United States over the next decade, according to recent market research.

These are the findings of Kalorama Information (New York, NY, USA), a healthcare market research firm in a recent report.

"With rapidly falling costs and increasing scientific discoveries, it is expected to reach a level where few other technologies can compete with sequencers,” said Justin Saeks, biotech analyst for Kalorama Information and author of the report. "Over the next decade, the largest opportunity for sequencing technologies may actually be in the doctor's office or hospital.”

According to the report, progress has been strong both in the development of better machines and in the mapping of the fully sequenced genomes, which help to justify the use of sequencers. The research noted that most of the 900 sequencing projects in the Genomes OnLine Database (GOLD) at the end of 2008 were bacterial and viral, and many of these could have clinical applications. Approximately one-third of sequencing projects were aimed at a specific disease. The growth in sequenced genomes points to a promising future for the technology, especially when combined with the downward movement in equipment pricing.

Indeed, in 2009 the Dover (Salem NH, USA) Polonator was released at one-third of the price. Another positive trend for the industry is the growth of DNA testing in laboratories. While it constitutes a small portion of overall testing in terms of revenues, the growth of molecular testing as a segment is faster than traditional segments, and points to a role for sequencers in the future.

Nonetheless, Kalorama Information noted that there are many steps along the way from the high-level research lab to the hospital and physician office. Clinical products are very different from a marketing and regulatory perspective than research products. One key to making the vision of the future a reality, according to Mr. Saeks, is that sequencing companies should partner with those who know their way around these markets already. "Sequencing companies will need to be aware of the regulatory processes and other pitfalls, and this is best achieved by partnering with established diagnostics companies,” he said.

Kalorama Information supplies independent market research in the life sciences, as well as custom research services.

Related Links:
Kalorama Information
Genomes OnLine Database