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Frost & Sullivan Acknowledges Access Genetics' Superior Technology Innovation in Medical Diagnostics

Posted on: Monday, 8 November 2004, 12:00 CST

Frost & Sullivan recognizes Access Genetics with a Technology Innovation Award in Medical Diagnostics for the company's exceptional ability to develop innovative technology such as its Web-enabled DNA testing system. This telemedicine solution allows clinical laboratories and pathology groups to conduct high-value molecular genetic testing using existing in-house resources.

Molecular genetic testing has yet to take off in a big way in the United States despite the huge boost provided to molecular diagnostics by the Human Genome Project. Laboratories are deterred by the high capital investment required in equipment, contamination issues, lack of specially trained physicians and staff, and the perception of poor reimbursement.

"All such barriers can be eliminated with the use of Access Genetics' technology, which can greatly reduce the complexity of DNA testing," says Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Miriam Nagel. "The turnaround time while using this testing system is measured in hours as compared to the days needed for traditional testing that involves sending physical specimens to reference laboratories."

The Access Genetics system enables local laboratory staff to perform a DNA extraction using a step-by-step protocol. A digital image of the DNA extraction is transmitted securely through Access Genetics' interactive Web portal. This image is then interpreted by an Access Genetics American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG)-certified pathologist, who provides the test result and analysis back to the laboratory through its Web portal.

Current applications for the technology include testing of inherited disorders such as thrombophilia and cystic fibrosis, and infectious diseases such as human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia and gonorrhea. Many of these tests focus on women's health issues, and can all be performed using a single specimen from a routine PAP collection or blood sample.

"With our unique telemedicine model, we aim to dramatically improve the availability, accuracy and speed of molecular genetic testing," said Dr. Ron McGlennen, founder and president of Access Genetics. "We are honored to receive recognition for our efforts from an organization such as Frost & Sullivan."

For its successful technology development in the medical diagnostics market, Frost & Sullivan presents Access Genetics with the 2004 Technology Innovation Award. This award is presented each year to the company that has shown significant improvement in sales due to product innovation. The superior technological sophistication has set the company on a growth trajectory in the market.

About Access Genetics, Inc.

Access Genetics is a Minneapolis-based medical technology service company working to improve the availability, utility and speed of molecular genetic testing in clinical settings. Using its unique telemedicine approach, Access Genetics provides its laboratory partners with turnkey solutions for the implementation of molecular genetic testing. For further information, visit www.access-genetics.com.

About Frost & Sullivan

Founded in 1961, Frost & Sullivan is recognized as a global leader in growth consulting. Frost & Sullivan Awards are presented to companies that demonstrate best practices in their industry, commending the diligence, commitment, and innovative business strategies required to advance in the global marketplace. Frost & Sullivan rigorously analyzes specific criteria to determine award recipients in a broad spectrum of market industries and landscapes. For further information, visit www.frost.com.

Source: Business Wire

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