Genomic investment strategies: Maximizing returns by investing in genetic research
The Resurgence of the "Dire Wolf" No Longer a Myth: Genetic Engineering Propels Species Back from Extinction
Less dramatic advances in the realm of genomics are revolutionizing the medical sphere. Families worldwide can expect tailor-made treatments as genetic engineering adapts disease diagnosis and therapy to the individual.
Genomics, the applied application of genetics in medicine, holds the key to more accurate and effective treatments. It ensures drugs are customized to a patient's genetic makeup, delivering better health outcomes and reduced costs.
According to Daniel Lyons, a portfolio manager at Janus Henderson Investors, research into gene therapies that directly address diseases rather than preventing their emergence is accelerating swiftly. challenges in production and delivery have been mitigated, and researchers are working diligently to elevate the safety and efficacy of treatments.
Falling costs and rapid advancements have paved the way for the rise of large-scale projects that depend on sequencing a multitude of individual genomes. Improved understanding of the genetic foundation of numerous diseases allows for more effective therapies and treatments. PacBio, for instance, has played a role in sequencing the genomes of 10,000 volunteers who contributed blood and tissue samples to Estonia's national biobank. Similar initiatives crop up around the world as researchers press ahead with their research.
The ambitious Our Future Health project in Britain exemplifies the vision for genomic research. A joint venture between the NHS, drug companies, and healthcare charities, its goal is to improve our comprehension of risk factors behind various illnesses by monitoring the health of a vast population sample over time. To gain invaluable insights, the project relies on the genetic sequencing of blood samples provided by the 2.4 million participants.
The plummeting cost of genetic sequencing equips clinical professionals with a valuable tool for detecting rare genetic diseases quickly. Although our understanding of the genetic basis of illness remains incomplete, newer technologies enable the consolidation of various genetic tests. This development lets clinicians screen multiple conditions concurrently, delivering definitive results in minimal time.
The ability to perform routine population screening for more common disorders seems economically feasible as technology advances. In recent years, genomic screening programs have garnered momentum in various countries, with the screening for spinal muscular atrophy being one such example.
The development of gene therapies that introduce a correct version of a faulty or missing gene to an individual's DNA has long been a topic of interest. Advances in the science have resulted in a better targeting of genes, leading to higher success rates. The therapies are also becoming increasingly durable, benefiting the entire medical field.
Such advancements are vital as the industry thrives on healthcare systems being prepared to invest large amounts upfront for one-time courses of costly therapy, hoping to save money in the future on treating conditions. Severe haemophilia, for instance, can cost half a million dollars annually to treat in the U.S., justifying the high prices for gene therapies despite their high initial costs.
With a lineup of 38 gene therapies currently approved by the FDA and over 1,200 in clinical trials worldwide, the future for gene therapies cannot be denied.
British company CareDx (Nasdaq: CDNA) has demonstrated promise in precision medicine with its genetic testing advancing organ matching processes in transplants. Its tests help clinicians pinpoint the likelihood of organ rejection, allowing them to adjust medications accordingly.
NeoGenomics (Nasdaq: NEO) fulfills the demanding need for hospitals and clinics to maintain constant updates with the latest technologies by providing genetic testing for tumor and blood analysis.
Krystal Biotech (Nasdaq: KRYS) has garnered attention for its gene therapy cream approved for dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. A rare genetic skin disease in children, the treatment significantly reduces the possibility of skin cancer development. Krystal has other gene therapies in the pipeline, targeting various skin disorders and cystic fibrosis.
In the realm of precision medicine, Oxigenomics (LSE: OXB) stands out for its 90% reduction in the cost of producing lentiviral vectors essential in CAR-T therapy. The company's innovations continue to bring down manufacturing costs by 80%-90% moving forward.
Another noteworthy contender in the high-risk, high-reward category is MeiraGTx Holdings (Nasdaq: MGTX), a company with plans for gene therapies addressing various conditions, including ALS, genetic obesity, and Parkinson's disease. Its Parkinson's treatment exhibited promising early clinical trial results.
Stay ahead of the curve and stay informed about the latest advancements in financial news, expert analysis, and ongoing financial topics with our exclusive website magazine subscription. Enjoy 60% off your subscription after your trial ends.
- The falling costs and rapid advancements in genomics now enable investment opportunities in gene therapies, as over 1,200 such treatments are in clinical trials worldwide, with 38 already approved by the FDA.
- In the medical-conditions sector, gene-editing companies like Krystal Biotech (Nasdaq: KRYS) arefocusing on developing treatments for rare diseases, such as dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa, which significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer and targets other skin disorders and cystic fibrosis.
- Businesses in the health-and-wellness industry like Oxigenomics (LSE: OXB) are playing a crucial role in making gene therapies more affordable and accessible. Their innovations have led to a 90% reduction in the cost of producing lentiviral vectors essential in CAR-T therapy, bringing manufacturing costs down by 80%-90%.
