The first diagnostic test to classify cancers by differences in microRNAs–small pieces of RNA that regulate genes–will soon be on the market. The test distinguishes two types of lung cancer and should help doctors tailor treatments to their patients’ needs. Scientists say that tests based on microRNA profiles could prove more sensitive and reliable than existing methods, whose accuracy depends heavily on the judgment of the people analyzing them.
Product: MicroRNA test for lung cancer
Cost: Comparable to that of other molecular tests for cancer, which are priced at around $3,000 to $3,500
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