Natera Inc. (NASDAQ: NTRA) announced the commercial launch of Zenith genomics, a whole genome sequencing test designed for rare disease diagnosis. The company made the announcement while presenting at the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Annual Clinical Genetics Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland.

The test uses whole genome sequencing with long-read sequencing confirmation to detect features such as tandem repeat expansions. Zenith genomics was developed through an exclusive partnership with MyOme, a clinical whole genome analysis company.

According to the press release, rare diseases affect approximately 30 million Americans annually, with patients experiencing diagnostic delays averaging 4-7 years. The cumulative economic burden of rare diseases in the United States reached nearly $997 billion in 2019, including $449 billion in direct medical costs and $548 billion in indirect and non-medical costs.

"Rare disease patients and their families endure lengthy and costly diagnostic journeys that often delay care and escalate emotional and financial strain," said Meredith Reichert, senior vice president of commercial and general manager of rare disease at Natera. "By combining MyOme's innovation with Natera's nationwide presence and clinical expertise, Zenith has the potential to transform rare disease diagnostics and provide definitive answers to more families."

Natera will distribute Zenith genomics to healthcare providers across the United States through its electronic medical records integration system and clinical support infrastructure. The test can support diagnosis of rare and ultra-rare diseases and provide guidance for targeted therapies.

"Our mission at MyOme has always been to unlock the full potential of the genome to improve health outcomes," said Akash Kumar, chief medical officer at MyOme. "Partnering with Natera allows us to scale Zenith rapidly and responsibly, ensuring that advanced sequencing tools reach the patients who need them most."