Axial Biotech

Axial Biotech

Axial Biotech was a pioneering company in the field of genetic testing for spinal disorders. Founded in 2002, the company was headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, and focused on developing DNA-based diagnostic tests to predict the progression of scoliosis, a common spinal deformity.

History

Axial Biotech was established by a group of scientists and entrepreneurs who recognized the potential of genetic testing in orthopedics. The company aimed to provide personalized medicine solutions for spinal disorders, particularly adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). In 2009, Axial Biotech launched the ScoliScore™ AIS Prognostic Test, which was the first genetic test designed to predict the risk of curve progression in scoliosis patients.

ScoliScore™ AIS Prognostic Test

The ScoliScore™ test was a groundbreaking development in the management of scoliosis. It analyzed the DNA of patients to identify genetic markers associated with the progression of scoliosis. The test provided a score that helped physicians determine the likelihood of curve progression, allowing for more personalized treatment plans. This was particularly useful in deciding whether a patient might benefit from bracing or if they were at low risk and could avoid unnecessary interventions.

Technology and Methodology

Axial Biotech utilized advanced genetic analysis techniques to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with scoliosis. The company conducted extensive research and collaborated with leading academic institutions to validate their findings. The ScoliScore™ test was based on a panel of 53 genetic markers, which were identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS).

Impact on Orthopedics

The introduction of the ScoliScore™ test marked a significant advancement in the field of orthopedics. It provided a non-invasive method to assess the risk of scoliosis progression, reducing the need for frequent X-rays and allowing for more targeted treatment strategies. The test was particularly beneficial for adolescents, as it helped in making informed decisions about the necessity of bracing or surgical intervention.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite its innovative approach, Axial Biotech faced challenges in gaining widespread adoption of the ScoliScore™ test. Some clinicians were skeptical about the clinical utility of genetic testing in scoliosis, and there were debates about the cost-effectiveness of the test. Additionally, the complexity of genetic factors involved in scoliosis progression posed challenges in interpreting the test results.

Acquisition and Legacy

In 2012, Axial Biotech was acquired by Transgenomic, a company specializing in advanced DNA-based diagnostics. The acquisition aimed to expand the reach of the ScoliScore™ test and integrate it into a broader portfolio of genetic testing services. Although Axial Biotech as a standalone entity ceased to exist, its contributions to the field of genetic testing in orthopedics continue to influence research and clinical practice.

Also see

• Scoliosis
• Genetic testing
• Orthopedics
• Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
• Genome-wide association study

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