Genaissance launches gene test for heart defects:
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
Genaissance Pharmaceuticals has launched a pharmacogenomic test for cardiac channelopathies - a broad clinical category that includes Long QT and Brugada Syndromes, two causes of arrhythmia that can result in sudden cardiac death. The CLIA-compliant test can confirm the presence of mutations known to cause cardiac channelopathies; identify family members who have similar mutations; and assist physicians in choosing the most appropriate course of treatment for each patient. It works by detecting genetic mutations in five cardiac ion channel genes. It is expected to provide an improvement to cardiac channelopathies testing using traditional electrocardiograms, which may miss a diagnosis, leaving a patient at risk of a sudden cardiac death, said the New Haven, Connecticut firm.