Myriad Genetics Lowers Price Tag on BRAC Tests for Researchers
"We are pleased that Myriad Genetics is making its BRACAnalysis molecular diagnostic test available to NCI scientists and grantees to help in further defining the role of these genes in the development of breast and ovarian cancer," said Richard Klausner, NCI director. He added that the agreement applies to genetic testing for research purposes only, not the delivery of health care services to patients.
Though the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have been intensely studied since their discovery in the mid 1990s (in 1999 alone, according to MEDLINE, over 500 papers were published on the two genes), there is a still great deal to learn to fully understand the biological function of these genes and their role, when altered, in initiating tumors.
But, the cost of testing hundreds, and in some cases thousands, of DNA samples has been prohibitive. To get around this problem, Myriad and the NCI created a solution that eases the financial constraint, while providing uniform, high quality genetic testing.
In addition, Myriad's rapid test turnaround time will provide researchers with critical data quickly. And because the same test can now be used for research that is employed in clinical practice, the data from research studies can be directly applied to the care of patients.
"Thousands of women and their families will benefit from these research studies," said Gregory Critchfield, president of Myriad Genetic Laboratories Inc. "We are pleased to work with the NCI in supporting essential cancer research. Our experience in providing full DNA sequence analysis of these genes will assist researchers in their efforts to develop preventions and cures for these devastating diseases. These research studies will also benefit from the use of the most accurate testing method possible. This Myriad-supported research may yield new insights into breast and ovarian cancers and lead to greater clinical utility and increased use of the BRACAnalysis test."
Myriad Genetics Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company focused on the development of therapeutic and diagnostic products that are based on the use of genomic and proteomic technologies. The company has established two wholly owned subsidiaries—Myriad Pharmaceuticals Inc., which develops and markets therapeutic compounds, and Myriad Genetic Laboratories Inc., which develops and markets proprietary molecular diagnostic services and has introduced products in the fields of predictive medicine and personalized medicine.
For more informatin: Bill Hockett , Investor and Media Relations, Myriad Genetics Inc., 320 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108. Tel: 801-584-3600.