Genomics
Genetic testing provides benefits for individuals and families by identifying increased risks of disease, potential interventions when disease is present, and also to determine the efficacy of ongoing treatments.
DNA testing is often associated with determining the parentage of a child and the guilt or innocence of a defendant in criminal cases. However, genetic testing provides benefits for individuals and families by identifying increased risks of disease, potential interventions when disease is present, and also to determine the efficacy of ongoing treatments.
Family Planning
Genetic testing, which includes analysis of DNA, RNA, enzymes and proteins, can be an important resource for family planning. Couples may benefit from genetic testing to determine if they are carriers for certain gene mutations that are identified with increased likelihood of developing disease. A specialist at Courtagen Life Sciences can also help with gene sequencing. While an individual carrier may not exhibit symptoms of a disease, their offspring will inherit genes that may lead to the development of symptoms of the disease.Related articles
Prenatal Diagnosis
Prenatal diagnosis through DNA testing is performed on the fetus to determine the presence of disease or changes in the fetus' genes and chromosomes that may indicate disorders before birth. Amniocentesis, one type of fetal genetic testing, is performed in vitro by obtaining a sample of amniotic fluid, typically after 15 weeks of pregnancy. Prenatal testing may indicate genetic abnormalities responsible for diseases such as Down Syndrome. Chrorionic Villus Sampling, performed after the 10th week of pregnancy, uses material from the placenta to test for genetic abnormalities.Early Detection of Disease
Newborns in developed countries typically receive DNA testing within one to two days after birth to screen for certain illnesses or health risks. Determining health vulnerabilities early provides a better outcome when treatment strategies can be applied before symptoms are prevalent. Additionally, when genetic mutations or abnormalities have been identified early, monitoring changes over time may indicate the development of disease that otherwise may go undetected.Personalized Medicine
Pharmacogenomics, a type of DNA testing associated with personalized medicine, provides benefits when treatment for disease has already been implemented. Information about an individual’s potential reaction and response to certain types of pharmaceutical interventions may determine changes in treatment protocols. While one treatment may prove beneficial to one individual, the same treatment may prove ineffective or detrimental for someone else depending on his or her unique genetic makeup.As new developments in DNA testing continue to inform scientists and medical professionals about the causes of serious diseases such as Diabetes and Alzheimer’s, increased opportunities arise for individuals and families to take a more proactive approach to disease prevention and health maintenance.
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