In common, high-penetrant hereditary cancer conditions such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer, a novel sequencing technology called Parent-of-Origin-Aware genomic analysis (“POAga”) can identify which side of the family a genetic mutation is inherited from, using only a blood sample from a single cancer patient.

Dr. Schrader’s research has the potential to revolutionize and improve the efficiency of cascade testing in relatives of women with ovarian cancer, by identifying which side of a family to focus genetic testing efforts on, from the outset.  This will allow for more targeted genetic testing of family members, and more informative family communication. Ovarian Cancer Canada is supporting the development of two educational videos about the POAga technology, with input from previvors and ovarian cancer patients. One video will be targeted to those individuals who are undergoing genetic testing, and one will be targeted to health care providers to help them interpret the results and impact of the findings to their patients.