Lab21 has entered into a partnership with Decode Genetics to offer Decode's tests for predisposition to a growing number of common diseases.
The licence allows Lab21 to offer its clients in the UK and Ireland access to tests for type two diabetes, myocardial infarction, atrial fibrillation, prostate cancer and glaucoma.
In addition, the licence will allow Lab21 to offer new tests as they are developed by Decode, including one for increased risk of oestrogen-positive breast cancer.
All Decode tests have been validated in thousands of patients and controls from multiple populations, have full regulatory approval, and will be handled through Lab21's clinical service laboratory in Cambridge.
Dr Berwyn Clarke, chief science and development officer at Lab21, said: 'Genetic testing is becoming an important part of medicine.
'In many patients, awareness of clinical predisposition can provide critical early warnings of the possible development of disease, and vital pre-emptive and precautionary measures such as dietary factors, detailed screening or pharmaceutical intervention can be implemented.
'This is critical as we work to shift the focus of healthcare from intervention to prevention.
'Our agreement with Decode will ensure clinicians can provide their patients with the most accurate and timely information.' Lab21's range of genetic tests now includes tests for breast, ovarian, skin and colorectal cancer, a portfolio of tests for cardiovascular disease and now, with Decode's tests for type two diabetes, prostate cancer and exfoliating glaucoma.
Kari Stefansson, chief executive officer at Decode Genetics, said: 'We are very pleased to have Lab21 offering our tests in the UK and Ireland.
'We believe this partnership will enable us to better leverage the potential of our growing product portfolio, reaching more physicians and healthcare systems and raising the profile of our tests in the UK and Ireland.'
