Bengaluru: Strand Life Sciences, India’s leading genomics and bioinformatics company, has launched a new blood-based test for early detection of many types of cancer at its newly opened Genomics Diagnostics and Research Centre (GDRC) in Bengaluru.
The test, called CancerSpot, will use globally accepted methylation profiling technology to identify cancer tumor DNA. Strand Life Sciences is a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Limited (RIL). It is a blood-based test. It uses genome sequencing and a special analysis process to identify DNA methylation signatures of cancer in the blood. This test is a simple and convenient alternative to regular cancer screening.
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The GDRC was inaugurated on Monday by Charles Cantor, an expert in genomics and biophysical chemistry and previously a professor at Columbia University, UC Berkeley and Boston University.
Isha Ambani Piramal, board member, RIL, said, “Reliance is committed to serving humanity and shaping the future of medicine. Cancer is emerging as a leading cause of death in India. It places a huge financial, social and psychological burden on patients, families and communities. Strand’s new cancer detection test is a breakthrough healthcare solution. We are committed to harnessing the power of genomics to transform healthcare and improve lives in India as well as the rest of the world. Reliance’s vision of ‘We Care’ is reflected in every initiative we take.”
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Speaking at the inauguration of Strand’s new state-of-the-art diagnostic centre, Ramesh Hariharan, chief executive officer and co-founder, Strand Life Sciences, said, “Early detection is the key to fighting and defeating cancer. We are proud to launch an accessible early cancer detection test that will help save people from cancer. Over its 24-year history, Strand has been a pioneer in genomics.
Opening of the GDRC is another major milestone for India. The genomics laboratory spans over 33,000 square feet.
