Streamlining familial hypercholesterolemia testing: How Sahlgrenska University Hospital laboratory optimized workflow with Devyser FH

Meet Emma Samuelsson, a genetic scientist at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg, Sweden. Emma is pivotal in ensuring precise and efficient genetic analyses for Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) testing. Her work underscores the importance of streamlined lab processes to deliver accurate and timely results. 

Understanding Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) 

FH is a genetic disorder that causes elevated cholesterol levels, significantly raising the risk of heart disease. Given the severe health implications, swift and accurate testing is essential to ensure that individuals with FH receive the necessary treatment as early as possible. 

At Sahlgrenska University Hospital, which serves the entire Västra Götaland Region, the laboratory handles 200-250 FH tests annually. An efficient testing process is critical to handle the volume of testing required. 

Simplifying genetic testing with a one-tube workflow 

Recognizing the need for improvement, Emma and her team transitioned to the Devyser FH NGS test, which offers significant advantages over their previous methods. This switch has made the process faster, simpler, and thereby more efficient. 

"Devyser FH simplifies the testing process compared to our previous solution by using only one tube," Emma explains. "This one-tube workflow enhances safety by reducing the risk of errors." 

The Devyser FH test and dedicated software is designed for simplicity and efficiency, covering all essential genetic markers believed to be associated with Familial Hypercholesterolemia. It identifies 12 SNPs related to polygenic FH and 6 SNPs that predict statin response. By streamlining the laboratory workflow with the one-tube solution, the Devyser FH test has significantly reduced hands-on time, saving valuable time for the lab team.  

“The Devyser workflow is like a dream” 

“Devyser's easy-to-use NGS library prep kit has significantly reduced our hands-on time. What once took days can now be completed in hours,” Emma adds. 

User-friendly software and exceptional customer support 

Emma’s previous experience with the Devyser Thalassemia kit made implementing the Devyser FH test seamless. Her familiarity with the setup and analysis program facilitated a smooth transition, allowing her team to integrate the new FH test into their existing workflow quickly. 

"Devyser consistently provides fast and reliable support—they are always there when we need them," says Emma. "We also appreciate the analysis software, Amplicon Suite, which has proven fast and user-friendly." 

Conclusion 

Emma Samuelsson’s experience at Sahlgrenska University Hospital highlights how the Devyser FH NGS test is the next level for FH genetic testing by simplifying and accelerating laboratory workflows and reducing the time and complexity of the testing process.