In this episode, we're diving deep into the realm of targeted DNA methylation sequencing, a cutting-edge technology with vast implications for clinical diagnostics and research. Joining us are Chad Pollard, CEO and Co-Founder of Wasatch BioLabs, and Dr. Jonathon Hill, an expert in genomic and bioinformatic methods. Together, they shed light on the importance of DNA methylation, the intricacies of targeted sequencing, and the future of epigenetic analysis.

Chad Pollard, BS
CEO | Co-Founder

Chad, a PhD candidate of Cell Biology and Physiology at BYU, graduated with his bachelor's degree in Genetics, Genomics, and Biotechnology and is currently furthering his pioneering work on pre-symptomatic diagnostics for neurodegenerative disease. He focuses on implementing groundbreaking technology through Wasatch BioLabs to impact clinical care.

Dr. Jonathon Hill, PhD
VP of Science and Technology | Board Member | Co-Founder

Jonathon, an Associate Professor of Cell Biology and Physiology at BYU, develops innovative genomic and bioinformatic methods for gene expression analysis and variant detection. He studies the molecular genetics of congenital heart defects in his lab. He is a Fulbright Scholar and a BYU Early-Career Teaching Award recipient, having received his MS in Molecular Biology from the University of Colorado Health Science Center and a PhD in Genetics and Developmental Biology from Columbia University.


Understanding DNA Methylation Sequencing:
- An overview of DNA methylation and its significance in regulating gene expression and cellular function.
- Insights into how targeted DNA methylation sequencing works and the conditions that prompt its use in clinical and research settings.
- Chad discusses Wasatch BioLabs' motivation for incorporating targeted methylation assays into its sequencing services and how this capability addresses unmet needs in various settings.

Advantages of Oxford Nanopore Technologies' PromethION Platform:
- An exploration of the advantages of using the PromethION platform for targeted methylation analysis, including accuracy, coverage, sensitivity, scalability, and cost-effectiveness.
- Dr. Hill delves into the development process behind targeted sequencing technology for methylation analysis and considerations for panel design to ensure relevance and specificity.
- Measures taken by Wasatch BioLabs to ensure the accuracy and reliability of methylation data obtained through its targeted sequencing service, including quality control protocols.
- Challenges encountered in implementing targeted methylation assays on the PromethION platform and how Wasatch BioLabs has addressed these challenges.

Clinical Applications and Future Implications:
- Potential clinical applications of targeted methylation analysis for early diagnostics and personalized medicine, along with insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.
- Walkthrough of the sample submission process and receiving results for the Targeted DNA Methylation Sequencing service, along with customization options available to researchers.
- Ongoing collaborations and partnerships involving Wasatch BioLabs to explore the utility of targeted methylation assays for various diseases and conditions.
- Chad and Dr. Hill share their excitement about the future of targeted methylation analysis and its potential contributions to advancements in research and healthcare.

Learn more on Wasatch BioLab’s website.

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