US-based genomics company Helix has released a new suite of pharmacogenomics (PGx) tests, widening its portfolio to offer personalised patient care in neurology and oncology.
The suite includes a PGx Fluoropyrimidines DPYD test to detect individuals with dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPYD) gene variants at risk for side effects from certain chemotherapies, aligning with the recent guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.
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The DPYD test provides insights into a patient’s metabolism of cancer treatments. It targets therapies used in treating breast, pancreatic, head and neck, colorectal, and oesophageal cancers.
Additionally, the suite includes the PGx APOE test to evaluate the status of apolipoprotein E (APOE) relevant to Alzheimer’s drugs.
It assesses the risk of serious adverse effects such as amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) for individuals treated with Leqembi or Kisunla.
These drugs have US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) boxed warnings for individuals with two copies of the APOE ε4 allele.
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By GlobalDataWith these tests, Helix now covers all neurology and oncology-associated PGx haplotypes cited in the agency’s warnings.
The company noted that its PGx tests offer accuracy across varied populations, utilising its Exome+ assay and comprehensive star allele caller.
Its Sequence Once, Query Often model allows for exomes to be sequenced just once, with subsequent genetic tests not requiring additional samples. This facilitates rapid results, enabling genetic insights at the point of care.
Helix’s latest PGx tests encompass medications for cancer, cardiovascular diseases, pain management, gastrointestinal conditions, and anaesthesia guidance.
These tests add to the company’s existing PGx offerings for blood clotting, mental health, and immune suppression treatments.
In addition, Helix has also developed the Helix Research Network in collaboration with its partners.
This precision clinical research network comprises health systems focused on integrating genomics into routine care and advancing human health through genomics research. It also creates real-world evidence to support a wide range of initiatives, including studies showing the genomics’ clinical use.
Helix chief science officer Will Lee said: “By focusing on patients with neurodegenerative conditions and cancer, and actively identifying those at higher risk for adverse outcomes, we can help providers treat vulnerable patients more precisely and effectively.”
