With research and clinical applications for telomere length measurements increasing we discuss some situations when it may be helpful for physicians or researchers to order a telomere test. There are many situations in which telomere length measurements can be helpful, both in clinical care and in research settings. For the former, telomere test results can […]
Tag: telomere length
Celebrating 15 Years of Telomere Testing at RepeatDx
In 2005 Peter Lansdorp and Gary de Jong set out to address an unmet need, providing physicians with accurate and reproducible telomere length measurements for use in clinical practice. As we approach our 15th anniversary, we take a look back at the origins of RepeatDx (Repeat Diagnostics Inc.) and what we think makes us and […]
What is a telomere biology disorder (or telomeropathy)?
There are multiple different terms for telomere biology disorders, here we explain what they are and what conditions they can encompass. Telomere biology disorders Telomere biology disorders (TBDs) are a complex set of conditions defined by genetic deficits affecting telomere maintenance and by the presence of very short telomeres. These disorders can also be referred […]
Update: RepeatDx and COVID-19
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization classified COVID-19 as a pandemic. While the risk in North Vancouver, British Columbia remains low, we are taking all available precautions to ensure the health and safety of our employees and partners as our utmost priority. To ensure samples reach us in a timely manner we recommend using […]
Can you measure telomeres; and why would you want to?
Telomere biology research is a growing and advancing field, but still people ask ‘can you actually measure telomere length?’ Here we answer this key question and also address how these telomere measurements can be useful. Can you measure telomeres? Yes. There are a number of different ways to measure telomere length, all with varying degrees […]
Research Update: Flow FISH vs MM-qPCR telomere testing
Here we discuss the key findings and conclusions from a recently published study ‘Comparison of flow FISH and MM-qPCR telomere length assessment techniques for the screening of telomeropathies’. Why test telomere length, and how? Telomere length testing is an important element in the diagnosis of dyskeratosis congenita (DC) and telomere biology disorders (TBDs) when assessing […]
Why is an accurate diagnosis so important and what role can telomere testing play?
Providing a correct and timely diagnosis can be challenging, especially for rare diseases. In this blog we address some key benefits of an accurate diagnosis for patients and their families. In some conditions, telomere testing may provide information to support this. Making an accurate diagnosis can be challenging, particularly for physicians faced with rare diseases […]
Full circle from telomere research to clinic – and Repeat!
As Director of Clinical Development & Research at RepeatDx, Dr Geraldine Aubert is at the forefront of cutting-edge research partnerships. Here she explains the success of translational telomere research and the importance of striving to learn more. For many patients and sometimes family members, the diagnostic journey for suspected Telomere Biology Disorders (TBDs) involves several […]
3 telomere testing myths to watch out for
As a relatively new and constantly advancing science, telomere biology is not yet fully understood. This is an exciting time for research in the field, with many opportunities for new discoveries. Although, in the meantime, with the lack of knowledge comes the risk of misunderstandings and telomere testing myths. Myth #1. Telomere length measurements can […]
What you need to know: insurance and telomere length testing
Navigating insurance coverage for healthcare costs can be difficult, especially when dealing with less common conditions and tests. We’ve compiled some tips and resources to help when it comes to ordering telomere length testing. For physicians supporting patients through diagnosis, it can be a complicated and lengthy process, especially in the case of rare […]