About Molecular Diagnostics

WHAT IS
WHAT IS MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS?

Molecular Diagnostics refers to in vitro diagnostic techniques based on detecting relevant biological markers. The most commonly used biological markers are DNA and RNA. Molecular tests can be used to determine germline genetic alterations that predispose individuals to certain diseases. This type of test normally only needs to be performed once in life. Molecular tests can also be used to determine an individual’s exposure to environmental assaults, including viral or bacterial infections and somatic mutations. This type of test is performed repeatedly. Two main techniques used in molecular diagnostics are polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. Molecular tests can be either qualitative or quantitative depending on the clinical application. Clinical molecular tests are regulated either by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA approved/cleared) or by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) (Laboratory developed tests).

ADVANTAGES OF
MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS

Sensitivity:

Molecular tests include an amplification step, which significantly increases the sensitivity compared to traditional diagnostic tests, enabling the detection of target molecules present at very low concentration

Specificity:

Properly designed molecular tests can distinguish target molecules with very few nucleotides differences, therefore minimize potentially false positive results.

Turn around time:

Molecular tests offer shorter turn around time compared to traditional culture-based methods for pathogens identification.

Early Detection:

Molecular tests can detect infections at earlier stages compared to traditional serological tests, enabling earlier intervention, consequently better outcome.

Precision Medicine:

Molecular tests allow more precise clinical management of patients to achieve personalized medicine.

CURRENT APLICATIONS OF MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS IN MEDICAL FIELDS

Infectious Disease Detection
Genetic Testing
Pharmacology
Cancer Diagnosis & Prognosis
Therapy Selection & Monitoring
Detect Various Infections (Viral or Bacterial)

Identify genetic mutations associated with hereditary types of cancer
Pharmacogenomics to optimize drug therapy
Oncology to select targeted therapies for cancer patients as well as to monitor treatment response

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WHAT IS WHAT IS MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS?

ADVANTAGES OF MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS