Preparing samples for shipment to RepeatDx for Flow FISH telomere length testing is a simple process, here we run through the equipment needed and the main steps from preparation to shipment. What is needed for collecting a sample for telomere testing? There are no specific sample collection / shipping kits required for telomere testing at […]
Tag: telomere measurement
Video: Techniques to measure telomere length
Accurately measuring telomere length is important for the diagnosis of telomere biology disorders, for research into how telomeres affect health span and aging, and their links to cancer. In this video we discuss a number of techniques to measure telomere length. Telomeres — the protective caps on the ends of our chromosomes — hold important […]
How do telomeres affect cancer?
Telomeres shorten as we age and the risk of cancer increases as we get older; here we explore some ways telomeres affect cancer risk. Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and with rates of many cancers increasing year on year, it is a priority research area in terms of improving understanding, diagnosis and […]
What are short telomeres?
In this blog we examine what short telomeres are and what short telomere syndromes can mean for certain individuals. What are telomeres for? Our chromosomes need to be protected to prevent damage, or them fusing with other chromosomes. Telomeres are the protective structures found on the end of chromosomes. They are made up of thousands […]
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 […]
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 […]