New genetic test for patients with inherited eye conditions is launched

The launch of a unique genetic test for patients with inherited blindness has been announced today at the UK Eye Genetics meeting in Bristol.

The test, which was developed with the support of charities Fight for Sight and RP Fighting Blindness, can analyse more than 100 genes in parallel, compared to fewer than 10 that current tests can scan. This new test will give many more patients a definitive diagnosis of their condition and allow some to preserve their sight for longer with directed medical management and new treatments.

Announcing the launch of the test, Professor Black of the University at Manchester said: “This test has been developed and costs have been driven down to make it as affordable as possible for the NHS. We are working with colleagues across the Manchester Academic Health Science Centre to launch a series of genetic test services based on the new technologies to improve the treatment of cancer, heart disease and many other common and rare conditions.  Our aim is to make personalised medicine a reality for most NHS patients.”

Michele Acton, Chief Executive of Fight for Sight, said: “As a result of this new test, hundreds of patients in the UK could receive a genetic diagnosis of their condition for the first time. Potential treatments for some inherited eye diseases are currently in development, and if these are to be successful, a precise diagnosis is crucial. For the many people who currently have very little information about their eye condition, this new test marks a major step forward.”

To find out more about the new genetic test, please visit http://www.mangen.co.uk/news.aspx