Medtech4Health funds clinical implementation of long-read sequencing for cancer diagnostics
Clinical Genomics Uppsala is a key partner in a project aiming to implement long-read sequencing for diagnostics of leukemia and hereditary cancer which was recently funded by Medtech4Health.
Panagiotis Baliakas. Photo: Anna Olsson
Current genetic analysis for cancer diagnostics often relies on several methods, including short-read sequencing and traditional methods like FISH and chromosome analysis. Long-read sequencing technology offers a comprehensive test that can detect different types of genetic variants, including complex variants that are missed with today’s methods. The goal of this project is to implement long-read sequencing in the clinic for cost-effective and fast diagnostics of leukemia and hereditary cancer, says Panagiotis Baliakas, senior consultant in hematology and clinical genetics and PI for the project.
The project, which is performed in collaboration with Uppsala University Hospital, is one of 12 funded projects in Medtech4Healths call. The funding from Medtech4Health complements a recent grant from Regional Cancer Centers in Sweden. The aim of the MedTech4Health call was to strengthen the ability of health care organizations to be able to evaluate, test and introduce new medical technology solutions, as well as to increase the pace of implementation and widespread adoption.
Medtech4Health strive to increase the number and quality of new innovative products and services within medtech. In collaboration with patients, healthcare, academia, and business, we contribute to increasing value for people affected by disease in their everyday lives. Medtech4Health is funded by the Swedish government through the Swedish innovation authority Vinnova, Swedish Energy Agency and Swedish Research Council for Sustainable Development Formas, and by the programme’s partners.