US-based ophthalmic technology company RetinalGenix Technologies has partnered with LabCorp to launch the RetinalGenix DNA/RNA/GPS Pharmaco-Genetic Mapping platform.
The collaboration allows patients to undergo genetic testing and high-resolution retinal imaging anonymously and provide insights into both ocular and systemic diseases.
Under the partnership, patients can visit any LabCorp location in the US to have blood, tears, nasal secretions, and saliva collected for analysis.
RetinalGenix’ unique algorithms will analyse these samples, correlating genetic and retinal biomarkers to set a new standard for early disease detection.
Patients can have their data analysed using specific algorithms recommended by RetinalGenix.
The ophthalmic technology company will keep all health records anonymous and confidential, managing appointments and test orders through its online platform.
Results are securely released to patients after payment validation at their chosen LabCorp centre.
RetinalGenix Technologies CEO Jerry Katzman said: “This cost-effective methodology aims to reduce reliance on expensive diagnostic procedures such as MRIs, CT scans, PET Scans, echocardiograms to name a few, helping to alleviate the financial burden on both patients and the healthcare system.
“Equally important is avoiding the use of high-priced specialists to perform basic eye care services. The company is actively collaborating with regulators to establish CPT codes, which should lower healthcare costs and improve access to necessary evaluations. By doing so, the already overburdened patient assessment process can be streamlined.”
Established in 2002, RetinalGenix is focused on providing advanced solutions for the early detection and treatment of both ocular and systemic diseases.
As part of the partnership, the company plans to introduce high-resolution retinal imaging as an additional service at various locations soon.
The integration is expected to enhance diagnostic accuracy, enabling general practitioners and standard eye clinics to assist in mass patient screening.
The advancements aim to make screening more accessible and cost-effective, improving early detection and treatment of diseases.
Furthermore, RetinalGenix is also developing therapeutic drugs for dry age-related macular degeneration and Alzheimer’s disease/dementia.
RetinalGenix Technologies DNA/RNA/GPS programme advisor Larry Perich said: “As the database of disease-associated biomarkers expands, we expect the value of these platforms for diagnosing both ocular and systemic diseases to continue growing, promising improved outcomes and more accessible care.”
RetinalGenix Technologies DNA/GPS genotyping/sequencing data processing, genetic and pharmacogenomics data analyses, and clinical genetic association studies overseer Taimour Langaee said: “I am excited that this creates great opportunities to further expand our knowledge about the important role of genetics and precision medicine in eye diseases, affecting millions of people and the potential to discover novel genetic variants and treatments.”
