LifeCell introduces genetic testing for cord blood units

The genomic tests will screen for approximately 7,000 inherited diseases and markers of childhood cancers

LifeCell International, a community stem cell bank, announced its next milestone – initiation of genetic testing on all cord blood samples before they are released for use.

LifeCell currently has an inventory of more than 32,000 units, which is growing by double digits each year. Access to such an inventory provides the community of families (those who have preserved their babies stem cells with LifeCell) more than 96 per cent probability of finding matching stem cells for their loved ones – in case the need of hematopoietic transplantation arises.

LifeCell has introduced these genomic profiling tests using next generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. These genomic tests will screen for approximately 7,000 inherited diseases and markers of childhood cancers. By screening specifically for genes known to be responsible for inherited diseases and cancer panels screening for childhood cancers, the results will be specific and robust in protecting patient safety.

Ishaan Khanna, CEO, BioBank and Diagnostics Divisions, LifeCell International said, “LifeCell has always been leading the industry with new initiatives and this is one another in the interest of patient safety. These additional tests being introduced by LifeCell as part of its release criteria are entirely voluntary as they’re not yet mandated by regulatory agencies. However, they are in line with the advancements in the field of genomics and are anticipated to soon become a part of the standard recommendations”.