Opinion--genome testing and quality assurance.

Recent discoveries and innovations in DNA technology have provided scientists with the ability to rapidly identify complex organisms, or samples therefrom, by detailed study of their genes and genome. In various disciplines, most notably in human forensic identifications, parentage tests and disease diagnosis, these activities have moved to commercial practice. However the rigour of quality assurance in these and other areas has not, in general, kept pace with technological innovation in molecular diagnostics. Insufficient resources are given to objective and ongoing evaluation of the quality of molecular diagnostic services, yet sustained quality is the key to long term credibility of the industry. The rapidly expanding commercial prospects for this technology must be accompanied by a planned commitment of resources to cost efficient quality assurance programs which include both declared and undeclared trials.