Latest news with #NGS
Time Business News
5 days ago
- Science
- Time Business News
NGS Gains Ground in Healthcare Amid Data Analysis Hurdles
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is a massively parallel sequencing technology that can establish the order of nucleotides in a whole genome with scalability, ultra-high throughput, and rapid scale. DNA pre-sequencing is key to the whole sequencing process since it involves readying the sample for the next sequencing step. NGS is being used more and more in clinical lab work, testing, and illness diagnosis in healthcare all over the world. The lack of adaptable computer tools is a key factor limiting how quickly we can analyze and understand NGS data. People in the industry are working together to combine resources. The aim is to extract useful information from big, complex databases for medical treatments. Key Growth Drivers and Opportunities Increased Genome Mapping Programs: Genome mapping is the process of assigning genes to specific regions of chromosomes and determining the relative distances between genes. Genome mapping is driven by programs designed to obtain high-throughput data and helps us understand genetic disorders, evolutionary relationships, and how traits are inherited. Advances in sequencing tech have made genome mapping rapid, more precise, and cost effective. Increased Applications of Next Generation Sequencing: Labs can sequence whole genomes fast using Next-Generation Sequencing. Deep sequencing of target areas is a good idea. To study gene expression, measure mRNAs, or use RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) to find new RNA variations and splicing sites. This method helps with thorough transcriptome profiling across different tissues, conditions, or health problems. It also helps find biomarkers and regulatory elements that change gene expression. RNA-Seq also gives info on post-transcriptional changes and non-coding RNAs. Challenges Next-generation sequencing demands qualified workers. So, large-scale testing isn't viable because it calls for great precision and skill. Data analysis complexity also means a need for trained bioinformaticians. Also, keeping protocols and quality consistent keeps being hard across labs. These limits may slow the spread of NGS in clinics and studies. Innovation and Expansion QIAseq Kit Cuts NGS Library Prep to 30 Minutes In July 2023, the launch of the QIAseq Normalizer Kits that give researchers a fast, convenient and cost-effective method to pool different DNA libraries for best-quality results from next-generation sequencing (NGS) runs. The QIAseq Normalizer Kit speeds up equalizing DNA concentrations across NGS libraries – so-called normalization – to 30 minutes from several hours by ending the need for quantifying DNA libraries using time-intensive and expensive procedures. It is high-throughput with an optimized protocol for parallel normalization of 96 samples, automation-friendly, and works without hazardous chemicals. Telesis Bio Ships First Automated NGS Plasmid Prep Kit In May 2023, Telesis Bio announced the first commercial shipment of its BioXp NGS Library Prep kit for plasmid sequencing. Leveraging this new automation capability of the BioXp platform is expected to enable researchers in high-throughput discovery workflows to reduce hands-on time, cost, and steps of NGS Library Preparation, both accelerating their time to answer and reducing barriers to access to Next-Generation Sequencing. This kit simplifies complicated procedures into an easy, automated process. This change allows for quicker and more scalable genomic studies in synthetic biology and molecular diagnostics. Inventive Sparks, Expanding Markets The key players operating the next-generation sequencing (NGS) market include Thermo Fischer Inc., Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., among others. Global businesses are collaborating to make NGS data analysis and interpretation simpler. They want to find helpful information in complicated genomic data for better medical treatments. About Author: Prophecy is a specialized market research, analytics, marketing and business strategy, and solutions company that offer strategic and tactical support to clients for making well-informed business decisions and to identify and achieve high value opportunities in the target business area. Also, we help our client to address business challenges and provide best possible solutions to overcome them and transform their business. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
6 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
The Next Frontier in Single-Cell Genomics
Single-cell genome sequencing is a powerful technique that enables the analysis of full genetic material from individual cells, allowing researchers to highlight genetic variations, mutation and cellular inequality that which wholesale sequencing is often missed. The market for this technique is growing rapidly, due to the increasing demand for accurate medicine, cancer research, and immune profiles, technological progress in microfluidics, the next generation sequencing, and AI-operated data analysis, as well as making single-cell workflow more scalable, cost-purpose and clinically relevant. Key Growth Drivers and Opportunities rising Demand for Accurate and Personalized Medicine: Increasing demand for accurate and personalized drugs is a major driver of single-cell genome sequencing market, as this technique allows for detailed genetic analysis at the individual cell level-important to identify drugs goals and treatment reactions. Especially by enabling accurate diagnostics and sequential therapy in oncology, immunology and neurology, the single-cell sequencing supports more effective, changes towards patient-specific medical interventions, fueling its adoption in research and clinical settings. Challenges Despite its rapid growth, the single-cell genome sequencing faces several borders in the market, including the high cost of equipment and reagents, complex sample preparation protocols, and large-scale, data interpretations due to the noise dataset include challenges. Additionally, limited standardization in platforms and analytical devices may obstruct fertility and scalability, especially in clinical applications. These factors prohibit adoption widely, especially in low-resources settings and small research institutes. Innovation and Expansion Roche and Broad Clinical Labs Collaborate to Advance the Rollout of Next-Gen SBX Sequencing In May 2025, Roche and Broad Clinical Labs established a collaborative partnership to create and test innovative applications utilizing Roche's recently introduced Sequencing by Expansion (SBX) next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. The goal of this partnership is to use SBX technology to revolutionize biomedical research and clinical genomics. Additionally, it will seek to make SBX technology a standard product for the research community at Broad Clinical Labs in terms of quick, scalable sequencing. Ultima Genomics' UG 100TM Platform Partnership Increases Access to Inexpensive DNA Sequencing Worldwide In February 2025, The UG100TM next-generation sequencing (NGS) platform's creator, Ultima Genomics, Inc., announced several new collaborations with top genomic services providers, expanding access to high-quality, reasonably priced DNA sequencing worldwide. In order to facilitate single cell sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, proteomics, whole genome sequencing, and other applications, this international network of renowned service providers will deliver industry-leading DNA sequencing services using the UG 100. The Ontario Institute of Cancer Research, Novogene, Psomagen, Eurofins, and Broad Clinical Labs are among the top-tier companies that were revealed today. These partners join the University of Minnesota Genomics Center, Macrogen, and Inocras as current Ultima Genomics service provider partners. Inventive Sparks, Expanding Markets Key players operating in the single-cell genome sequencing include ThermoFisher Scientific, Inc., Illumina, Bio-Rad, BD, Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc., QIAGEN, 10X Genomics, Inc., BGI, Novogene Co. Ltd., NuGEN Technologies, Inc., Takara Bio, Inc., F Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Fludigim, and Agilent Technologies Inc. About Author: Prophecy is a specialized market research, analytics, marketing and business strategy, and solutions company that offer strategic and tactical support to clients for making well-informed business decisions and to identify and achieve high value opportunities in the target business area. Also, we help our client to address business challenges and provide best possible solutions to overcome them and transform their business. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
News18
18-07-2025
- Health
- News18
Cough, Cold, Or Something Worse? Why You Shouldn't Ignore Monsoon Flu Symptoms
Last Updated: Monsoon offers a breeding ground for the spread of viruses and bacteria. What looks like a common cold or viral fever might actually indicate something deeper. As the monsoon clouds roll in and bring a welcome respite from the heat, there's another problem that creeps up alongside – one filled with the heightened risk of infections. While many of us dismiss the flu during the rainy months as just a product of the weather change, this approach can be dangerous. The monsoon season in India is a breeding ground for numerous infections, and flu is one of the most commonly misinterpreted illnesses. What starts as a mild cold or fever is often treated with over-the-counter remedies, including antibiotics, which can actually worsen the problem. The onset of monsoon is accompanied by high humidity and pathogens, all of which create the perfect storm for the spread of viruses and bacteria. People often confuse flu-like symptoms with a common cold or the seasonal bug. This delay in recognising the illness can lead to more severe complications. Dr. Mahua Das Gupta, Director of Medical Affairs (Infectious Diseases) at HaystackAnalytics, says, 'Infections caused by respiratory viruses such as Influenza A (H1N1), H3N2, SARS-CoV2 and RSV can be severe, especially for those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing conditions like asthma, diabetes, and heart disease." The Risk of Misdiagnosis: Self-Treatment and Antibiotic Resistance In the rush to feel better, many people opt for self-medication, often reaching for antibiotics at the first sign of fever or cold. Dr Gupta says, 'This overuse of antibiotics has contributed to a growing problem – antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The WHO identifies AMR as one of the top ten global health threats, with an estimated 5 million deaths annually attributed to drug-resistant infections." 'The overuse of antibiotics accelerates the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making future infections more difficult to treat. More dangerously, the symptoms can escalate into complications like pneumonia or even organ failure, requiring hospitalizations that could have been avoided with earlier, more accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment," adds Dr Gupta. Early Diagnostics: The Key to Preventing Serious Illnesses The good news is that early diagnostic tools can help prevent the flu from escalating into more severe conditions. Dr Gupta says, 'Advanced technologies, like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), enable clinicians to identify pathogens at the genomic level with speed and accuracy that surpass traditional methods. NGS can detect the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection, even those that are difficult to culture or detect, using older diagnostic methods." NGS can detect a wide range of pathogens in a single test, including bacterial, fungal, and viral agents responsible for respiratory infections, and even reveal the antimicrobial resistance profiles of these pathogens. With a turnaround time as quick as 24 hours, this technology empowers clinicians to initiate the most effective treatment without delay. How Genomics Can Help with Flu Diagnosis NGS-based diagnostic tests can help physicians move beyond broad-spectrum antibiotics and make data-driven treatment decisions. These tests provide a clear picture of which pathogens are involved, whether viral, bacterial, or fungal, allowing for targeted treatment. Dr Gupta explains, 'By providing a comprehensive pathogen profile, genomic tests also enable doctors to understand the exact nature of a patient's infection. Instead of relying on trial-and-error, doctors can make informed decisions about whether to prescribe antiviral medications, manage symptoms, or employ more aggressive treatments." A Call for Vigilance: The Role of Preventive Care As the monsoon season approaches, it's crucial to stay vigilant about flu and other infections. Flu-like symptoms during this time shouldn't be dismissed as just the weather. Early intervention with proper diagnostics can prevent complications, reduce unnecessary antibiotic use, and combat antimicrobial resistance. view comments Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
17-07-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Homi Bhabha centre begins DNA, RNA-based technology for advanced cancer diagnosis
Bringing cutting-edge technology to patient care, the Department of Oncopathology at Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, Punjab has initiated DNA and RNA-based Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) for advanced cancer diagnosis and personalised treatment in its New Chandigarh unit in Mohali. NGS is a molecular diagnostic technology that enables rapid and comprehensive analysis of DNA and RNA, which helps to identify genetic mutations that drive cancer. This powerful tool allows doctors to tailor treatment plans based on a patient's unique tumour profile, ensuring more precise and effective therapy. It also plays a crucial role in detecting hereditary cancer syndromes and monitoring disease progression or recurrence. With this addition, the hospital further strengthens its commitment to offering world-class and personalised cancer care. The service is now available for patients with both solid tumours and blood cancers. Dr Ashish Gulia, director of the hospital, stated that very few hospitals in this part of the country offer this testing facility. He highlighted how cancer treatment is becoming increasingly specialised. In the past, there were only a few types of chemotherapy and treatments, and cancer categories were limited. Taking lung cancer as an example, he explained that previously, there were just two types. Now, by checking the genetic profile of lung cancer, doctors can determine its specific type. This test offers two main benefits. Firstly, it helps identify which cancers are treatable and the ones incurable. This allows medical professionals to focus their efforts effectively, rather than applying the same energy to all types of cancer. Second, the test reveals specific tumours that can be treated in a specialised way, leading to better treatment outcomes. Comparing past and present technology, Gulia noted that a decade ago, a lung cancer diagnosis often meant a bleak prognosis. However, with NGS, it is now possible to treat such patients much more effectively. Dr Sankalp Sancheti, head, Department of Oncopathology, Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre, described the new high-end test as a complex process, and previously, samples for this test had to be sent to Mumbai. Now, with the facility available in-house, it will save considerable time for both the hospital and patients, thereby improving convenience. The cancer hospital is a tertiary care hospital with a 300-bed capacity, built at the cost of over Rs 660 crore by Tata Memorial Centre, an aided institute under the Department of Atomic Energy, Government of India. The hospital functions like a 'hub' of cancer care and treatment in the region, with the 100-bedded hospital in Sangrur functioning as its 'spoke' as part of the hub and spoke model.
Hindustan Times
17-07-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Mohali: Homi Bhabha hospital begins DNA testing for advanced cancer diagnosis
The Homi Bhabha Cancer Hospital and Research Centre (HBCHRC) in New Chandigarh has started in-house DNA and RNA-based Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), marking a major upgrade in cancer diagnostic services in the region. Hospital director Dr Ashish Gulia said that only a few hospitals in this region currently offer such testing. (HT file) The department of oncopathology at the hospital will now use NGS technology to analyse genetic mutations in cancer patients, enabling doctors to personalise treatment based on individual tumour profiles. The facility is available for both solid tumours and blood cancers. Officials said that until now, samples for this test had to be sent to laboratories in Mumbai. The new facility will reduce diagnostic time significantly and allow quicker initiation of targeted treatments. 'NGS is a molecular diagnostic method that allows detailed analysis of DNA and RNA to identify genetic drivers of cancer. It also helps detect hereditary cancer syndromes and monitor disease progression,' they added. Hospital director Dr Ashish Gulia said that only a few hospitals in this region currently offer such testing. He explained that cancer treatment has evolved from broad chemotherapy protocols to targeted therapies that depend on genetic profiling. Dr Sankalp Sancheti, head of the oncopathology department, noted the test's complexity and emphasised that the development of the facility was a team effort.
