Genetic Testing Roundup – Gene Tests and Warfirin
Every week we see more and more uses for genetic testing. It’s not uncommon to find new genetic testing companies entering the market, laboratories releasing results regarding their new findings and a good deal of discussion regarding the implications of this new found and exciting scientific technology that is genetic testing.
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.
