Aside from the CDC Tier 1 conditions, can Helix provide other clinical results as part of the Helix Research Network?
As part of their participation in the Helix Research Network, participants consent to have Helix store their DNA sequence indefinitely. This means that, in the future, it will be possible to use that information for additional clinical genetic testing.
Helix performs Exome+® sequencing on participant samples. This testing reads the DNA sequence of most genes (plus many other regions of the DNA). An individual's DNA sequence is also called their genetic information. Participants who enroll in the Helix Research Network will receive DNA test results for three medical conditions. These conditions include a genetic form of breast cancer, colon cancer and high cholesterol. There are no additional genetic test results planned for return through the Helix Research Network at this time. This may change in the future if additional medical conditions become appropriate for general population screening.
As part of their participation in the Helix Research Network, participants consent to have Helix store their DNA sequence indefinitely. This means that, in the future, it will be possible to use that information for additional clinical genetic testing. Helix is actively working with our partnering healthcare institutions to offer opportunities for participants to learn more about their genetic information in the future. Such future testing would only be performed when medically necessary, at the request of an ordering healthcare provider and with the consent of the participant.