NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Baylor Genetics and Rainbow Genomics announced on Monday a partnership to offer clinical exome sequencing tests to patients in Asia.
Hong Kong-based Rainbow Genomics will offer screening and diagnostic exome sequencing-based tests developed by Baylor, including one to assess risk for developing a genetic disorder, a test to assess cancer risk, and a diagnostic cancer test. In addition, Rainbow will use Baylor's Consultagene service to offer bilingual genetic counseling in English, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Japanese.
The two firms said that the tests cover more than 22,000 genes, including some that may be more specific to Asians, and may increase diagnostic yield. The geographies covered by the deal include Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and other countries in Asia.
Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.
Christine Eng, Baylor Genetics' chief medical officer, said in a statement that the partnership "gives us the opportunity to serve a new patient population."
Rainbow CEO Daniel Siu added that the firm is "committed to bringing validated genetic tests supported by clear medical evidence to patients and physicians in local communities."