Horizon Discovery Group plc, Cambridge, UK, has launched a novel Myeloid DNA reference standard. The first-to-market, large cell-line derived myeloid cancer reference standard enables fast, reliable, and cost-effective assay validation.

The latest addition to the company’s portfolio of more than 100 reference standards, the Myeloid DNA reference standard was developed using Horizon’s specialized gene editing technology to deliver a cell line-derived reference standard containing 22 mutations across 19 genes that are commonly associated with myeloid cancer. The standard provides genetic testing laboratories and assay developers with a tool to effectively validate and optimize myeloid genetic tests with DNA of a known genotype that closely mimics the genomic DNA format and mutations present in real patient samples. The Myeloid DNA reference standard contains variants in more genes than are found in most clinical samples, enabling quality assurance goals to be reached faster.

Pizzie

Terry Pizzie, Horizon Discovery Group.

In recent years, blood cancers have been the subject of increased biomarker identification and associated targeted drug development, resulting in an increase in genetic testing for myeloid cancer. There are now a number of multigene next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays on the market, in addition to custom-designed myeloid gene panels.

High-quality, accurate genetic diagnosis is vital for guiding the treatment of cancer patients. Myeloid cancer is associated with more actionable gene targets that can guide clinical treatment options than are available for solid tumors. The new Myeloid DNA reference standard fulfils the need for clinical testing labs and assay developers to access well-characterized, multigene, multiplexed reference standards.

“This is an exciting new launch for Horizon, as it is the largest cell-line derived reference standard hitting the market that is focused exclusively on myeloid cancer,” says Terry Pizzie, CEO at Horizon Discovery Group. “Horizon has successfully developed an extensive range of genetically defined, human genomic reference standards already, and the Myeloid DNA reference standard further demonstrates our commitment to providing the right tools our customers need to tackle the challenges of oncology genetic testing.”

For further information, visit Horizon Discovery Group.