Cell-Free DNA Systems Must Offer Tech Support and User-Friendliness, Says New Report
ROCKVILLE, Md., Feb. 6, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- Companies shouldn't forget tech support as they bring complex technologies like cfDNA to smaller labs, according to Kalorama information. The use of these technologies is continuing to move into smaller labs that have less experience, due to the science becoming more proven and also partly driven by benchtop NGS systems. These sequencers tend to have simpler operation, allowing non-specialists to use them with minimal training. They require less ancillary equipment and sample preparation. The finding was made in Kalorama Information's report, Cell-Free DNA Markets. Kalorama is a market research firm with a specialty in biotech instrumentation and IVD.
The use of cfDNA and "liquid biopsies" of other analytes has received a huge amount of attention in recent years, due to its potential to revolutionize the diagnosis and treatment of several conditions. The ability to non-invasively access genetic information has proven to be an important tool for prenatal testing, oncology, transplantation diagnostics, and other areas. Prenatal has been a key area, and companies like Illumina, Agilent, Sequenom and others participate in the market. It's still unknown as to how successful the technologies will be, and how rapidly it will occur but cfDNA could expand into cancer and other areas of medicine. As it does, Kalorama notes that companies will need to be ready to support the labs that make up the next group of sales.
"These systems are still a far cry from 'sample to answer,'" according to Kalorama publisher Bruce Carlson. "Most of the workflows for cfDNA analysis still require multiple kits and steps. But strong support can aid until the time that systems catch up in user-friendliness."
Kalorama says this makes it likely that end-users will make mistakes or experience hiccups at some point, and will need someone to answer their questions. Companies will have the opportunity to build reputations and loyalty by providing adequate technical support, both online and over the phone, or risk negative reputations possibly due to no fault of their own. The current influx of companies and products, combined with a relatively low degree of customer loyalty in this segment, makes labs even more likely to consider a switch.
The larger long-term opportunities for cfDNA analysis tools in diagnostics will likely depend on the systems becoming simple enough for routine usage by lab technicians. This includes the entire process, from sample preparation to data analysis. The market will lean towards simpler solutions that bundle products, streamline the process, and reduce labor-intensive steps. The systems will need a layer of user-friendly software to guide the decision-making, to shield the scientist from the intricacies of the various algorithms being used. As the tests become more complex, this need will become even more important in order to move beyond specialized labs into the smaller routine settings.
About Kalorama Information
Kalorama Information, a division of MarketResearch.com, supplies the latest in independent medical market research in diagnostics, biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and healthcare; as well as a full range of custom research services. Reports can be purchased through Kalorama's website and are also available on www.marketresearch.com and www.profound.com.
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Please link any media or news references to our reports or data to http://www.kaloramainformation.com/.
Press Contact:
Bruce Carlson
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SOURCE Kalorama Information
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