The database is expected to be released in 2011 and will consist of data provided by the “providers of genetic tests” on a voluntary basis.

The GTR page is currently a little short on information but will likely fill out as details begin to emerge.

For an independent and detailed explanation of this recent news, there is an  interesting post on genomeweb and a good article and overview at the Genomics Law Report.

This week we see findings regarding testing of genes and the use of the blood-thinner Warfirin.  There’s a good article on the details here.

Basically, a genetic screening of patients, specifically those with heart conditions, can help detect an adverse reaction to Warfirin.  There are two genes that can be isolated to indicate a sensitivity to the drug that could potentially lead to hospitalization.

According to the press release from Medco Health Solution, “Hospitalization rates for heart patients taking warfarin, the world’s most-prescribed blood thinner, dropped by approximately 30 percent when genetic information was available to doctors prescribing the drug, researchers from Medco Health Solutions, Inc.– in association with the Medco Research Institute™– and Mayo Clinic announced today.”

Also, here’s a nice overview of some interesting developments in the genetic testing world.

AP IMPACT: Testing curbs some genetic diseases The Associated Press Genetic testing pushes hot-button issues: abortion, embryo destruction and worries about eugenics — selective breeding to rid a population of unwanted ... Half-hour DNA test to check for killer diseasesScotsman The government has my DNA?phillyBurbs.com Testing curbs some genetic diseasesContra Costa Times Reuters -TG Daily -WKBW-TV all 347 news articles »

via Google News

Genetic Testing to Help Dieters Lose Weight eMaxHealth A new genetic test may help pinpoint those genes that inappropriately metabolize certain nutrients and lead dieters toward the best weight loss program to ... Low-fat or low-carb? Gene test claims to show which diet works best; skeptics ...Gaea Times (blog) Dieters May Get Help With New Gene-Testing: ReportRedOrbit all 218 news articles »

via Google News

Lawsuit attacks patent giving company control over genetic test for cancer risk
Washington Post
They say that Myriad's patents on the isolated BRCA sequences impede research and women's access to their own genetic information through testing. ...

and more »

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Does your kid have the DNA of a sports superstar?
KOLD-TV
Reilly admits this particular science is still very young and it is precisely that reason why some genetic experts doubt the validity of this testing. ...

and more »

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The BBC recently featured news about a fast, low cost DNA test which can determine a person’s chances of developing certain inherited diseases could soon be a reality, experts said. Read more here.

According to the report: “Tiny differences in the DNA chain can show if a person is prone to disease, or has a life-threatening condition.”

Seattle Post Intelligencer

AP IMPACT: Testing curbs some genetic diseases Washington Post Genetic testing pushes hot-button issues: abortion, embryo destruction and worries about eugenics - selective breeding to rid a population of unwanted ... Fewer babies with genetic defects being bornWGME AP Health NewsBrief at 10:27 a.m. ESTInsurance News Net (press release) DNA Tests' Worth Questioned In StudyKERO-TV 23 Scotsman Typhoid collects on gallstones to perpetuate disease all 379 news articles »

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Private MD

Gene discovery may lead to test for aggressive prostate cancer Private MD The slow-growing nature of some prostate cancers is the reason that genetic testing is so important. Without a test capable of distinguishing the ... and more »

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