Financial Express
 
Bangalore-based genomic diagnostics and research services firm MedGenome on Monday announced the launch of the CNS Tumor Methylation Classifier, calling it India’s first genome-wide methylation-based precision diagnostic test for CNS tumors which they claim to be the first in the country.
 
A CNS Tumor Methylation Classifier is an advanced diagnostic tool that classifies central nervous system (CNS) tumors by analyzing DNA methylation patterns, an epigenetic modification where a methyl group is added to DNA, potentially silencing genes.

There are more than 120 different types of brain tumors, lesions and cysts, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. The diagnostic test can help differentiate over 90 classes of brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors into accurate subtypes, which will help accurate treatment of patients.
 
“These changes can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and cancer development. By identifying these unique methylation signatures, the classifier accurately determines the type and subtype of brain tumors, enabling more precise diagnosis and personalized treatment planning,” said MedGenome.
 
MedGenome’s CNS Tumor Methylation Classifier complements conventional Histology, distinguishes morphologically similar tumours and increases diagnostic specificity.
As per the company, it resolves diagnostic discrepancies, identifies novel tumours types and enables accurate tumor subtyping for better prognosis.
 
“No two cancers are truly the same, even in patients with the same diagnosis. A brain tumor in one person can behave very differently from an apparently similar tumor in another. Tools like whole genome methylation profiling give us the resolution to see those differences clearly, so treatment can be planned for the specific individual,” said MedGenome CEO VL Ramprasad.