Pathway Genomics has officially debuted an app that enables users to order a genetic test to optimize their exercises and diet choices based on their genetic profile. The move combines the rise of precision medicine with the interest in adding healthcare applications to smartphones. The app directs users to its online physician network to order the test. The Pathway Fit app analyzes more than 75 genetic markers known to impact metabolism, exercise, and energy consumption within our bodies. For example, it claims to assess whether users have a genetic predisposition to overeating or lactose intolerance. It can also assess benefits or impacts of exercise on weight loss, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and metabolism. The company refers to it as a “personalized nutrigenomic profile.” It is also intended to improve interactions between patients and their physicians by helping them better understand how genetics and lifestyle impact diet, nutrition, and exercise. Although the test has been available for four years, this is the first time it is available in app form. It reduced the price of the test from $599 to $99 to promote the app. In a phone interview with Pathway Genomics CEO Jim Plante, he said it’s also interested in partnering with companies with complementary offerings in areas such as fitness tracking wearables, gyms and nutrition. The genetic testing company also has a collaboration with IBM Watson to develop a cognitive consumer-facing app based on genetics from a user’s personal makeup. The app will use IBM Watson’s natural language processing and cognitive capabilities to help answer users health-related questions in their own words. The idea is that it will also routinely monitor user’s health and wellness information, and alert them to any new, relevant recommendations.
IBM Watson has released an app that aims to combine the increase in precision medicine with advances in digital health, to present a "personalized nutrigenomic profile" aimed at optimising exercise and diet choice. The CEO of pathway genomics also plans to partner with companies in the fitness tracking wearables, gym and nutrition space.