Quest Diagnostics Launches Advanced Pharmacogenomics (PGx) Offering

Core Insights - Quest Diagnostics has launched an advanced pharmacogenomic (PGx) laboratory test service to help healthcare providers understand patients' genetic responses to drug therapies, aiming to optimize medication selection and dosing across various medical specialties [1][2][3] Group 1: Service Overview - The PGx offering includes testing for 17 genes and 4 HLA alleles, which are associated with drug responses, and is informed by expert groups such as the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC) and the FDA [2][5] - The service provides a comprehensive report that includes genotype and predicted phenotypic response, along with medication guidance through a personalized report powered by Coriell Life Sciences [3][4] Group 2: Clinical Implications - The PGx testing aims to reduce trial-and-error in prescribing, potentially preventing therapeutic failures and adverse drug interactions (ADIs), which are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality [2][5] - By leveraging genetic insights, the service supports safer and more effective prescribing decisions tailored to individual genetic profiles [5] Group 3: Accessibility and Collaboration - Patients can access the testing through Quest's 2,000 patient service centers or via home collection services, enhancing convenience for patients [4] - The collaboration between InformedDNA and Coriell Life Sciences aims to translate complex genetic data into actionable insights for healthcare providers, promoting individualized care [4][6] Group 4: Company Background - Quest Diagnostics serves a significant portion of the U.S. population, providing diagnostic insights that empower healthcare decisions and improve health outcomes [8] - The acquisition of Coriell Life Sciences by InformedDNA enhances the capabilities in pharmacogenomics, aiming to optimize clinical decisions and reduce healthcare costs [6][7]