Genomics
Genomics is the study of the complex set of genes that determine who we are as individuals, and how we respond and interact with the world around us. Not only do our unique set of genes determine our physical attributes and how we respond to stimuli in our environment, but on the cellular level, genomics also determines - to a very large degree - to how individual cells in our body respond to drugs and other treatment. In the field of genomics scientists and researchers identify not only gene sequences but gene expressions and interaction to help determine how a disease or condition in an individual might progress. The field of genomics has advanced rapidly in the past decade. This field's intensive efforts, including the sequencing of the entire human genome, offer a whole new world of information that enables a better understanding of disease at the molecular level.

How does Genomics relate to Personalized Medicine
Advances in the field of genomics have led to remarkable discoveries, including the identification of sets of genes that encode proteins that act as checkpoints (on/off switches) associated with specific diseases such as cancer. As genetic differences among these genetic "biomarkers" individuals are found, researchers have found that they can use this information to develop personalized drugs and tailor therapies that are more effective for the individual. More and more often this new generation of drugs are small molecules that target very specifically and block the activity of the biomarker linked to the disease. Invivoscribe currently uses biomarker testing to stratify and monitor disease, aid in treatment decisions, and determine the efficacy of therapy. Available tests also provide an "early warning" on cancer recurrence so the physician has time to intervene most effectively. By monitoring treatment we will also be able to determine when the disease has evolved or mutated so that the current ‘cocktail' of treatments/drugs are no longer effective. New biomarkers are discovered each year and will be used in conjunction with new, as yet undeveloped, testing algorithms to tailor patient therapy.

Proteomics
Proteomics is the large scale study of proteins expressed by a genome. Understanding the proteome, the structure and function of each protein and the complexities of protein-protein interactions will be critical for developing the most effective diagnostic techniques and disease treatments in the future. Application of proteomics can be seen in using specific protein biomarkers to diagnose disease. A number of techniques allow to test for proteins produced during a particular disease, which helps to diagnose the disease quickly.

Genetic Testing
Genetic testing examines nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) to identify both normal gene sequences that vary between individuals, and mutated sequences that can be diagnostic for disease or prognostic or predictive of disease outcome. Genetic testing allows us to detect both heritable and acquired mutations that can help predict risk for disease and identify carriers, direct the clinical management of treatment, and assist in establishing clinical diagnoses or prognoses in individuals, families, or populations. Common uses of genetic testing today include determining sex, forensic/identity testing, prenatal screening, confirming diagnosis of specific illness or disease, and stratification of patients to help determine best treatment options.