Rapid incorporation of sequencing into clinical practice is stirring excitement in the molecular diagnostics industry, but in reality this method faces some hurdles. The emerging clinical applications of sequencing-based tests, as well as frank discussions of some of the challenges, were discussed at G2’s MDx NEXT conference (Baltimore; June 11-13). Through the two-day conference, some dominant themes emerged. Sequencing Grabbing Headlines Sequencing will revolutionize the practice of molecular diagnostics, if it has not already. Yes, there are regulatory and reimbursement challenges ahead, but the technological aspects of next-generation sequencing (NGS) have largely been conquered. Now, attention is increasingly being focused on the remaining practical undertaking of making sense of the vast quantities of sequencing data. The point was repeatedly made that the biggest barrier to widespread clinical adoption of sequencing is data interpretation. There was both optimism and enthusiasm regarding the number of firms tackling the bioinformatics and analysis components of interpretation and the progress these startups are making. Expert stakeholders across the diagnostics industry highlighted the growth potential among this segment of the industry. The enthusiasm for all things sequencing is additionally buoyed by the seemingly daily headlines touting sequencing achievements, even in the lay media. The week of […]