In the past, the method of sequencing DNA was not only time-consuming and laborious but also greatly expensive. Moreover, at that time, it was possible only to sequence a small number of base pairs, which was too less from the number required to sequence a single gene.
Fortunately, vast technological advancements have been made since then. Moreover, automation has made the process much faster, efficient, effective, and practical. In today’s age, single genes are sequenced regularly, quickly and at a much lower cost at laboratories.
DNA sequencing finds applications in biomarker discovery, oncology studies, personalized medicine, forensics, and others.
Allied Market Research has recently published a report on DNA Sequencing Market. According to the report, the market was valued at $5,156 million in 2016 and is expected to accrue a sum of $18,284 million in 2023, thus registering a CAGR of 19.6% from 2017 to 2023.
The main growth drivers of the market include a rise in sequencing applications, technological advancements in DNA sequencing, increasing number of genome mapping programs, and rise in R&D investment.
Several recent developments in the field are making way for a prolific growth in the future. In February 2017, Promega Corporation and Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation announced the development of a benchtop capillary electrophoresis (CE) instrument for DNA analysis. In July 2017, Helix launched its app store for genetics.
In May 2017, Mayo Clinic launched first-in-world mate-pair sequencing test that figures out breakpoints of chromosome rearrangements.
In March 2017, MagBio Genomics launched a new solution for isolation of circulating cell-free DNA from stabilized plasma sample. In October 2016, Eurofins Genomics opened a new DNA sequencing facility in Canada.
Promega and Hitachi Comes Up with a Novel Development
By collaborating with Hitachi High-Technologies Corporation, Promega Corporation announced the development of a benchtop capillary electrophoresis (CE) instrument for DNA analysis in February 2017.
The Spectrum Compact CE System meets small batch and single sample needs in DNA analysis. It also executes both sequencing and fragment analysis. The instrument also allows performing single nucleotide polymorphism, PCR sizing and microsatellite analysis, de novo sequencing, next-generation sequencing validation, and mutation detection.
Featuring four-capillary, six-dye detection with an integrated touch-screen, the Spectrum Compact CE System runs up to 32 samples at one go. Plug-and-play prefilled reagent cartridges with a guided software user interface in the system allow for easy operability.
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Helix Launches an App Store for Genetics
In July 2017, Helix, a DNA testing startup, introduced its app store for offering genetic tests. The company along with its launch partners are coming out with 20 tests that are supported by Helix’s DNA sequencing technology.
The test reveals every detail of an individual such as ancestry, risk of inherited diseases such as diabetes, and more. Instead of sending your spit to a number of different places for different tests, you could just let companies access your genetic code.
The platform introduces more companies to the DNA testing space. For instance, if you want to know about your ancestry, you pay for National Geographic’s Geno 2.0 test and send in your spit to Helix. The results would be received via National Geographic’s system.
Now say you want to try Vinome, a test that analyzes your DNA to determine your taste in wine. Since you’ve already had your spit analyzed, you only have to allow Vinome to access that information and your results will come back to you in a short time.
Mayo Clinic Launches Mate-Pair Sequencing Test
In May 2017, Mayo Clinic launched first-of-its-kind mate-pair sequencing test that identifies chromosome alterations or breakpoints involved in chromosome rearrangements.
The test analyses the 23 pairs of chromosomes in a go and it could help clinicians and patients avoid the expensive tests while searching for a chromosome defect. Since the test analyses all the chromosomes, it could figure out past unknown alterations that may provide patients with a diagnosis or alter their treatment.
MagBio Genomics Launched a New Solution for Isolation of Circulating Cell-free DNA
In March 2017, MagBio Genomics, a biotechnology company based in the USA, launched its cfKapture 21 kit for isolation of circulating cell-free DNA (ccfDNA) from stabilized plasma sample. The kit contains a proprietary reagent that prevents degradation of plasma after separation and ccfDNA fragments for up to 21 days at room temperature.
This lets laboratories safely transport and process samples within a much longer time frame without requiring extensive cold chain, thereby bringing down cost, improving efficiency, and increasing outreach for both local and international samples.
Eurofins Genomics Opens a New DNA Sequencing Facility
In October 2016, Eurofins Genomics, a provider of quality DNA oligonucleotides and sequencing services, launched a new DNA sequencing facility in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The new facility provides fast and high-quality DNA sequencing services using Sanger method to researchers across Canada.
The facility meets the growing needs of the scientific community in the country and the customers in the US.
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(Disclaimer: This is a guest post submitted on Techstory by the mentioned authors. All the contents and images in the article have been provided to Techstory by the authors of the article. Techstory is not responsible or liable for any content in this article.)
Image Source:Â Oxford University
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Sharmistha has always had a keen interest in reading and writing. Allied Market Research has given her the chance to gain knowledge about different subjects.
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