Through Genome Medical, Beam sponsors genetic counseling to provide educational resources and support to its BEACON clinical trial participants as they navigate the complexities arising from their sickle cell diagnosis and clinical trial journey. Beam will not receive any identifiable information about the patients who choose to pursue genetic counseling with Genome Medical.
Sickle cell disease is a group of genetic disorders that affect hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that delivers oxygen to cells throughout the body. People with this disease produce atypical hemoglobin molecules called hemoglobin S, which can distort red blood cells into a sickle or crescent shape, blocking the flow of blood and oxygen throughout the body. SCD characteristics typically appear in childhood and may include anemia, repeated infections, and severe pain. It can also lead to life-threatening complications, chronic organ damage and death.
The BEACON clinical trial is evaluating BEAM-101, an investigational therapy that produces base edits designed to potentially alleviate the effects of sickle cell disease by mimicking genetic variants seen in individuals who have inherited persistence of fetal hemoglobin. In the BEACON clinical trial, participants undergo the removal of blood cells, which are edited and then reintroduced into the participant.
“We look forward to working with Beam to advance access to genetic counseling for BEACON trial participants. We applaud their research into sickle cell disease and efforts to explore a new therapeutic option for the many people worldwide living with this life-threatening inherited condition.” say Jill Davies, CEO, Genome Medical. “We view our work with biopharmaceutical companies as critical to the development of genomic medicine and enabling access to life-saving therapies and treatments for patients living with rare diseases.”
About Genome Medical
Genome Medical, the leading telegenetic care company, makes genetic care accessible and actionable for patients through seven days a week access to genetic services. By partnering with health systems, laboratories and biopharmaceutical companies, Genome Medical is expanding the reach and impact of genomic medicine. The company helps its partners provide clinical risk assessments for patients, genetic test recommendations and ordering, pre- and post-test genetic counseling through its team of expert genetic counselors and personalized care plans. Its advisory team uses an evidence-based approach to help partners evaluate and develop scalable, effective and successful genetics programs. With headquarters in South San Francisco, Genome Medical is the recipient of MedTech Breakthrough’s 2023 “Genomics Innovation Award” and has been honored as “The Best Digital Health Company to Work For” by Rock Health and “Top 50 in Digital Health” by Fenwick & West and Goldman Sachs. To learn more, visit genomemedical.com and follow @GenomeMed.
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SOURCE Genome Medical