Genetic testing is a growing area of research, with over 500 products in development for genetic testing, according to GlobalData. Image Credit: transurfer / Shutterstock.

Molecular diagnostics company, BillionToOne has launched a prenatal genetic test, BabyPeek, in the US.

BabyPeek is a non-invasive test that uses maternal blood and cell-free DNA sequencing technology to determine ten non-medical traits of the baby. The traits identified include potential eye and hair colour, the likelihood of freckles, food preferences such as an aversion to cilantro or inclination towards sweet versus salty foods, and when to expect a baby’s first tooth. The test is designed to provide fun and light-hearted information during pregnancy.

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BabyPeek will be offered as an optional add-on to the company’s other prenatal genetic test, Unity.

The non-invasive Unity test can be used to screen for genetic diseases and detect the presence of foetal antigens. The test can be carried out any time after ten weeks of gestation, with results available ten days following the blood draw. The company rolled out a pilot programme for BabyPeek at the end of last year.

The genetic testing field has expanded over recent years, with multiple companies offering direct customer testing services.

According to GlobalData analysis, there are more than 500 products in development for genetic testing, Most genetic tests focus on identifying genetic disposition for cancer.

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In September 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared 23andMe to report 41 additional genetic variants of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. The agency also granted the company the first-ever Predetermined Change Control Plan (PCCP), which outlines the protocols and acceptance criteria to validate BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants.

In July 2023, Quest Diagnostics launched its first consumer-focused genetic test, Genetic Insights. The test examines 36 genes using a saliva sample and can analyse the potential risk of up to 24 genetically inheritable conditions, including breast and colon cancer, heart and blood disorders and carrier status for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anaemia, and Tay-Sachs disease. 

Another company that offers genetic testing to identify genetic predisposition for multiple cancers is InVitae. The company’s Common Hereditary Cancers Panel analyses 47 genes associated with cancers of the breast, ovary, uterus, prostate, and gastrointestinal system. It can also help individuals with already-diagnosed cancer by identifying potentially cancer-associated hereditary variants.