# Phase II: Rapid Array Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Defects (RAD4CHD) Using Allele Diagnostics Rapid Array Chromosomal Microarray Strategy

> **NIH NIH R44** · ALLELE DIAGNOSTICS, INC. · 2020 · $708,996

## Abstract

Allele Diagnostics Phase II SBIR – Project Summary:
 Allele Diagnostics is a CLIA-certified, CAP-accredited clinical genetics testing laboratory that was formed in
2014. Our laboratory focuses on both diagnostic testing and product development. We have developed a novel
custom-designed, whole genome chromosomal microarray (CMA) which provides results in as little as 2 days
in both prenatal and postnatal settings. The successful design and development of this assay, along with our
staff's extensive experience in processing and analyzing CMA tests and building custom CMA analysis
software solutions, positions us to develop rapid phenotype-specific CMA tests.
 In Phase I of our project we designed a comprehensive CHD (Congenital Heart Defects) gene-centric CMA
test, the Rapid Array Diagnosis for CHD or RAD4CHD, that can detect chromosomal aneuploidies and copy
number changes at exon level resolution. The test is intended for patients with CHD diagnosed either
prenatally or at birth when a rapid genetic diagnosis is important. The product addresses 4 challenges with
current genetic testing methodology: 1) need for rapid results, 2) complexity of genetic testing, 3) high cost,
and 4) limitations in resolution. The assay increases the diagnostic yield of currently available rapid first tier
testing methods, providing a result in as little as 2 days, reduces testing complexity, and decreases costs. In
Phase II of this project, we plan to finalize our RAD4CHD for clinical validation and commercialization. This
includes: 1) refining our CMA probe design 2) upgrading our software analysis tools and genomic databases;
3) evaluating and implementing laboratory automation techniques; 4) validating the RAD4CHD as a clinical
assay; and 5) running a large cohort of samples with CHD indications to evaluate the incremental diagnostic
yield of the RAD4CHD compared to standard CMA tests.
 Our plan for commercialization will include publishing the results of the diagnostic yield study and
marketing our product nationally to those physicians who care for patients with CHD, including neonatologists,
geneticists, cardiologists, and maternal-fetal medicine specialists. The test will be marketed through multiple
distribution channels including a direct sales approach and selling through strategic partners.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10009204
- **Project number:** 2R44HL145937-02
- **Recipient organization:** ALLELE DIAGNOSTICS, INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Beth Torchia
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $708,996
- **Award type:** 2
- **Project period:** 2019-03-01 → 2022-05-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10009204

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10009204, Phase II: Rapid Array Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Defects (RAD4CHD) Using Allele Diagnostics Rapid Array Chromosomal Microarray Strategy (2R44HL145937-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10009204. Licensed CC0.

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