Low-Cost DNA Test To Pinpoint Risk Of Inherited Diseases

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Low-Cost DNA Test To Pinpoint Risk Of Inherited Diseases

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/179386.php

An inexpensive, fast, accurate DNA test that reveals a person's risk of

developing certain diseases is expected to become a reality, thanks to

technology developed at the University of Edinburgh.

Scientists have developed a method of pinpointing variations in a person's

genetic code at critical points along the DNA chain. The technique could be used

to analyse DNA in a drop of saliva.

Tiny differences or omissions in DNA code can determine whether or not a person

is healthy, susceptible to disease, or has a serious or life-threatening

condition, such as cystic fibrosis. The technology seeks to enable improved

personal diagnosis, allowing prompt, appropriate treatment for patients.

The method, based on chemical analysis, delivers reliable results without the

need for expensive enzymes used in conventional DNA testing. Researchers behind

the technology will soon test whether it can decode entire human genomes. The

study, published in the journal Angewandte Chemie, was funded by ish

Enterprise.

Dr -Mochon of the University's School of Chemistry, who led the

research, said: " This technology offers a speedy, cost-efficient alternative to

existing methods of DNA analysis. The market for DNA testing is quickly

expanding as it becomes more affordable. Our method could help reach the goal of

complete genome analysis in a few hours for less than $1000. "

Professor Mark Bradley of the University's School of Chemistry, who also took

part in the study, said: " We plan to test the technology further, extend our

collaborations with leading researchers and companies in the DNA sequencing

field and establish our first commercial operations within the next six months. "