What types of products and services does Sengenics provide?

Sengenics products and services are based on genetic biochip microarrays, which can comprehensively screen hundreds of disorders across the whole genome or an individual’s entire DNA in a single test.

All our diagnostic array tests are designed by Oxford Gene Technology, UK and Emory Genetics, USA. They are also certified by the International Standards for Cytogenomic Arrays Consortium (ISCA). It is the only array test which uses experimentally optimised probes to ensure highly accurate diagnosis.

The current portfolio of products and services are:

HU-LB1 Learning and Behaviourial Specific learning disorders, Autism and neurodegenerative disorders. See detailed syndrome list for full details.

HU- PH1 Physical Skeletal and dysmorphism disorders. See detailed syndrome list for full details.

HU-MO1 Metabolic & Organ Diabetes, pancreatic, hormonal, eye, kidney, hearing, cardiac, and infertility disorders. See detailed syndrome list for full details.

HU-HC1 Hereditary Cancers A broad range of hereditary cancers. See detailed syndrome list for full details.

HU-WG1 Whole Genome All the above disorders and syndromes. See detailed syndrome list for full details.

HU-CS1 Customised A selection of up to 100 syndromes from the Whole Genome disorders list.

 

Who will need such products and services?

The Sengenics Test should be considered if the following situations are relevant:

1. Your patient has a child with learning difficulties, delayed development or other noticeable symptoms that you suspect may be a genetic condition.
   
   
2. You suspect a genetic disorder and wish to have an accurate confirmation before your patient plans a family.

 

What is the technology used?

Array-based comparative genomic hybridisation (array CGH) is a technique that allows detection of deletions or amplifications in patient DNA. The array is designed so that it is able to detect minute changes which would be missed by older techniques such as FISH or karyotyping. The other key advantage of the technology is that the entire DNA is tested in one go.

 

How does it work?

Each microarray contains tens of thousands of DNA probes that have been designed across the whole human genome. The probes are not evenly spaced, but are present in higher density in stretches of the DNA that are associated with genetic syndromes. Following mixing of normal DNA with the patient's DNA it becomes possible to measure the relative abundance of the patient's DNA at each probe position. This "relative abundance" value is used to quantify the presence of deletions or amplifications in the patient. Computer software is used to link each change to a certain syndrome.

 

Is the microarray-based cytogenetic platform used in Sengenics' HU-WG1 Whole Genome Test considered better than other methods?

1. The American Society of Human Genetics issued a Consensus Statement (published in the American Journal of Human Genetics, May 14, 2010) recording their support for the use of this platform as the first-tier clinical diagnostic test for individuals with developmental disabilities or congenital anomalies.
   
   
2. Array Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH) is now renowned as the first line test in leading international laboratories in the US and Europe for children presenting with developmental delay (including mental retardation and autistic spectrum disorders), intellectual disorders & multiple congenital anomalies.
   
   
3. It is the platform of choice adopted by leading international medical instititions.

 

What support does Sengenics provide?

Sengenics' mission is to go beyond the Diagnostics. Rather than provide just the test, Sengenics will allow you access to its local and international panel of scientists and genetic counsellors for advice on potential treatment and/or education programmes to intervene, manage and treat any potential disorders that are identified. This will ensure the best possible support and peace of mind for you and your patient.

 

How is Sengenics' laboratory facilities different from other laboratories in the same industry?

1. The Sengenics Medical Genetics & Diagnostics Facility is modelled on Oxford University's Emeritus Prof Sir Edwin Southern's facility of Oxford Gene Technology (OGT) Ltd. in Oxford, UK.
   
   
2. The facility in Malaysia is modelled on best practice implemented by leading international medical facilities such as UK NHS, Oxford Gene Technology and Emory Genetics. This ensures that the highest level of efficiency, accuracy, sensitivity and quality control protocols are implemented which are deemed critical for any diagnostic facility to achieve.
   
   
3. The Sengenics laboratory is designed to be in compliance with the following Clinical Laboratory ISO Standards:
   
   
   • MS / ISO 17025, Requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories.
     
     
   • AS / NZS 2982.1: 2010, Laboratory Design and Construction.

 

What types of abnormalities does array CGH detect?

Syndromes that are caused due to deletions or amplifications can be screened.

 

What will array CGH not detect?

This technology will not be able to detect balanced translocations, low-level mosaicism or single-nucleotide polymorphisms.

 

How sure are you of the results?

Our arrays are designed by Oxford Gene Technology, Oxford, England in conjunction with Emory Genetics, USA. The team there uses very complex and comprehensive techniques to maximize the clarity and reproducibility of the results. As there are multiple probes used to call any given result, the software is able to give a score to each call. This ensures that any result has a very high degree of accuracy.

 

What types of samples do I need to provide?

Our preferred sample type is 3ml whole blood in an EDTA tube.

 

Should I provide consultation to my patients myself or refer them direct to Sengenics?

• Sengenics can provide you with a range of pre-genetic counseling information pamphlets in line with international medical and diagnostics guidelines set in Europe and the US.


• This information will normally be sufficient for medical professionals to provide advice to their patients. However, if required, Sengenics can provide access to its panel of in-house and consultant genetic counselors to advise on whether the test is applicable for the patient and the potential outcomes, thereby ensuring peace of mind for you and your patient.

 

Where do I refer my patients for consultation if needed?

You can email us direct at: enquiries@sengenics.com

 

How can I participate if I am interested in joining the Sengenics Panel of Clinicians?

You can email us direct at enquiries@sengenics.com and our Representative will contact you to review and discuss requirements for being on the Sengenics Panel of Medical Advisors.

Sengenics Sdn Bhd (823880D)
D07-3, Plaza Kelana Jaya,
Jalan SS7/13A, Kelana Jaya,
Petaling Jaya, Selangor 47301
Malaysia.
Tel: +603 7877 6881
Fax: +603 7874 3880