Episode 487: LIVE from ILADS: Dr. Jyotsna Shah - Advancing Lyme Disease Testing with IGeneX

Dr. Jyotsna Shah, PhD, is the President and Laboratory Director of IGeneX, a leading Lyme disease testing laboratory. With over 40 years of research experience in immunology, molecular biology, and microbiology, she holds more than 20 patents. Dr. Shah’s journey in Lyme disease research began at Harvard University, and she has since played a pivotal role in advancing diagnostic tools for tick-borne diseases. Under her leadership, IGeneX has developed innovative testing methods, including the first Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) test for Babesia.

Key Takeaways:

• IGeneX is considered the premier Lyme disease testing lab by the patient community due to the positive outcomes patients experience.
• Dr. Shah's early exposure to Lyme disease research at Harvard University and a personal connection through a colleague led her to focus her career on this field.
• The development of the Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) technique was a crucial factor in Dr. Shah's decision to pursue Lyme disease research.
• Navigating the clinical lab management aspect of IGeneX was an unexpected challenge, but Dr. Shah worked closely with state inspectors to ensure the lab's safety and trustworthiness.
• Obtaining insurance coverage for IGeneX's specialized tests has been an ongoing challenge, but the lab's focus on patient outcomes has earned it the trust of the Lyme disease community.

Resources & Links:

• Follow the latest ILADS updates at ILADS.org
• Learn more about Dr. Jyotsna Shah and IGeneX: IGeneX Leadership
• Stay connected with Tick Boot Camp: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter (X)