Illumina partners with Henry Ford Health to analyze genomics in cardiovascular care

Illumina has entered into a joint agreement with Henry Ford Health to analyze the effect of comprehensive genetic testing on cardiovascular disease. CardioSeq is the first trial after the partnership agreement and it will include 1500 patients being taken care of by Henry Ford’s Division of Cardiovascular Medicine. By enabling personalized medication, Illumina hopes to accomplish for heart disease what DNA testing has done for cancer therapies.

David Lanfear, a senior representative at Henry Ford Health stated that the company has keen interest in the change in the management because of genetic information. Illumina expects that the integration of genetic data may result in a speedier diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, the top cause of mortality worldwide, and guide patients toward treatments with fewer adverse effects based on how they interact with their bodies.

The managing director of Illumina Phil Febbo believes that genomics should be considered as an important factor in health. The company ensures that the partnership will highlight the positives of this approach for individual patients in underserved communities and the broader healthcare system.

The CardioSeq study’s whole-genome sequencing test will look for more than 200 DNA biomarkers associated with cardiovascular illness, as well as evidence of hereditary heart disorders. Following that, the health system will rely on genetic counselors to notify participating individuals of any hereditary illness discoveries, while pharmacists will make suggestions based on probable drug interactions.

Researchers from the Lisa and Christopher Jeffries Centre for Precision Medicine and the Centre for Individualised and Genomic Medicine Research at Henry Ford expect to finish evaluating all 1,500 participants by the end of next year. Samples and DNA data from patients will also be utilized for the pair’s genomic medicine study, with their permission.

The probability of developing cardiovascular disease and the patient’s response to common medications is influenced by genetics. The CardioSeq study will employ Illumina’s clinical test that utilizes Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to create a comprehensive genetic profile specific to cardiovascular health.

Illumina has used its DNA knowledge for the TruSight Oncology 500 biopsy test, which is meant to discover genetic indicators of solid tumors. While it is presently only accessible for research use in the United States, a clinical version has been authorized in Europe as a companion diagnostic for Bayer’s gene-targeted medication Vitrakvi.

Illumina is committed to acquiring full control of cancer blood test provider Grail. The Federal Trade Commission and the European Commission have both formally protested Illumina’s $8 billion acquisition, which is set to close in August 2021. While facing penalties and other potential liabilities as a result of the transaction, Illumina has stated that it intends to fight the findings at all ends.

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