Established US-based diagnostic company Next Gen Diagnostics (NGD) recently confirmed a significant addition to their Scientific Advisory Board. Dr. Linoj Samuel, the current head of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory for Henry Ford Health in Detroit, Michigan, joins the board bringing extensive experience and in-depth knowledge within the clinical microbiology field. Recognized nationally for setting the best practices for clinical microbiology result integration, Dr. Samuel’s expertise significantly boosts patient care and enhances hospital operations. He is also the Chair of the American Society for Microbiology Clinical Microbiology and Public Health Committee.
NGD’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Paul A. Rhodes, expressed his enthusiasm in welcoming Dr. Samuel on board, acknowledging the potential of his experience in providing valuable insights into the possibilities of bringing automated Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and bioinformatic results into clinical evaluation and implementation.
The company, known for its development of sophisticated systems for determining resistance in gram-negative bacteria from WGS, has recently validated tests that outperform current standard of care in-vitro test accuracy. Notably, they have partnered with Vanderbilt to use Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) for transmission detection within a neonatal intensive care ward. These advancements form part of an increasingly substantial body of evidence, suggesting a rising potential for WGS as a pivotal tool for infection control teams.
Dr. Samuel, in expressing his anticipation to contribute to NGD’s further development, highlighted the importance of leveraging the automation of sequencing and bioinformatics. This would spearhead the practical implementation of bacterial WGS in a hospital environment for clinical infectious disease practice and hospital infection prevention.
Established by Dr. Paul A. Rhodes along with Sanger Institute group leaders, Next Gen Diagnostics operates out of the US, UK, and Israel. Focused on harnessing the immense potential of pathogen bioinformatics, NGD provides a high volume turn-key sequencing service. They currently aim to pioneer WGS-based regulated diagnostics introduction into patient care with collaborations in the US, Europe, and Israel.