Genomics vs. Genetics
While genomics and genetics may sound similar and are related, each focuses on different
information.
Broadly speaking, genetics is the study of how inherited traits are passed from
one generation to the next through the genes, and how new traits appear by way of
genetic mutations or changes. These traits may be characteristics like eye or hair
color.
A predisposition to certain types of diseases can also be passed through the genes,
such as the
BRCA1 gene and the
BRCA2 gene which normally help control cell growth. A person who inherits
an altered version of the BRCA1 and/or BRCA2 gene(s) has a higher risk of developing
breast and ovarian
cancer. There are breast cancer genetic tests for both the BRCA1 gene and
the BRCA2 gene, but these are different from the Oncotype DX
Breast Cancer Assay, which is a genomic test.
A genomic test, such as Oncotype DX, looks at groups of genes and how active
they are. This activity can influence how a cancer is likely to grow and respond
to treatment. Unlike a breast cancer genetic test, the Oncotype DX breast
cancer assay does not provide information about a person’s inherited genetic make-up.
Instead, the Oncotype DX breast cancer assay looks at 21 genes in a patient’s
breast
tumor to understand how these genes interact and influence the tumor’s behavior.
Learn more about Genomic Health’s products in development:
Genomics Research vs.
Genetics Research
- Genetics research is the study of heredity or inherited traits (such
as eye color) and alterations in specific genes that may impact the individual
potential for a given health condition.
Genomics research is the study of a complex set of genes (either inherited
or arising from alterations that occur after birth), identifying not only their
sequences but how they are expressed and interact to affect how a condition develops.