Dr. Robert Boorstein MD, PhD

GLG News^SM Analyses by Robert Boorstein(?)

What is potential future for Sequenom in prenatal testing.

November 9, 2009

Analysis of:So Where Does Sequenom’s Prenatal Play Currently Stand? | www.genomeweb.com

The historic but minimally supported enthusiasm for the Sequenom prenatal test has previously been reported in this space previously. Even in the absence of data retractions, leading to termination of much of senior management, problems in the rollout of the product should have been anticipated.Remarkably, this article asserts that industry insiders remain optimistic about the development of a successful diagnostic product.

Potential impact of large clinical trial on Liquid based cytology market

November 5, 2009

Analysis of:Alternative to Pap Test Does Not Appear to Be Better for Detecting Cervical Cancer | www.medcompare.com

The data confirms what has long been known. There has never been definitive evidence for a benefit for Liquid based cytology screening compared with conventional screening, especially when sample collection is standardized and the laboratory meets reasonable standards.Objectively, liquid based cytology has essentially replaced conventional Pat testing in this country, and it is unlikely that there is evidence that would reverse this. However, it is possible such studies will put downward pricing pressures on reimbursments, both in amounts and frequencies.

New entrant to DTC genetic testing market raises regulatory and financial questions

July 16, 2009

Analysis of:New DTC Genetics Firm Pathway Genomics Launches | www.genomeweb.com

Pathway Genomics is the latest entrant into the DTC genetic testing market.   They offer an extensive amount of genetic information (over 90 individual results) at a price point of $250.  This undercuts both existing DTC providers, like 23andme, decode genetics, etc., but also appropriately licensed genetics providers.        These companies seem to be threading the needle between providing a service for "research and education only", with extensive legal disclamers, and providing useful information and interpretations which affect medical decisions.  Sooner or later, governmental agencies have to make a decision on whether to clearly subject these companies to explicit regulatory scrutiny, both at the federal and state level.      Notwithstanding, this company would seem poised f

Analyst upgrades of Genomic Health: Lagging or leading indicator

June 12, 2009

Analysis of:Analyst Upgrades Genomic Health | www.genomeweb.com

Genomic Health is a molecular diagnostic company with one major product on the market and others potentially in the pipeline.   Wall street has had only modest coverage of this company and generally assessments have been neutral.  In assessing this company, it is important to recognize that it has some unique positive features in its business model, as well as some downside risks of potentially great magnitude. 

Jumping off the Bandwagon: Decline in Sequenom shares takes world by surprise

May 1, 2009

Analysis of:UPDATE 2-Sequenom delays Down Syndrome test; shares plunge | uk.reuters.com

The market cap of Sequenom has been bid up to the $billion US level by the potential of a single product.   Many in the investment community have been following this closely.  Overwhelmingly, investor sentiment has been bullish, both among the professional investment community, and in the public measures of sentiment (i.e, the motley fool).  Recently, the rug has been pulled out from this company by an announcement that it was delaying the launch of its test for Down's syndrome.  The collapse of the stock, however, should not come as a surprise.  Numerous warning signs were clearly apparent to onlookers familiar with the processes by which new tests become standards of care.  Many of these issues were raised previously in this forum. https://news.glgroup.com/cm/Analysis/PostDetail.aspx?pid=35151

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