Shares of Manchester-based pharmacogenetic testing company Genedrive plc rose as much as 15% after it said the Genedrive MT-RNR1 ID Kit, its rapid pharmacogenetic test to prevent antibiotic-induced hearing loss (AIHL) in newborns, has been implemented at Erasmus MC University Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, effective from August 3, 2026.

“Erasmus MC is one of Europe’s leading university medical centres and internationally recognised for its expertise in pharmacogenetics,” said Genedrive.

“Its neonatal intensive care unit treats approximately 750 newborn babies each year. Implementation of the Genedrive MT-RNR1 ID Kit is being funded by Erasmus MC’s Pharmacogenetics International Expert Center, led by Professor Dr Ron H.N. van Schaik.”

Genedrive CEO Dr Gino Miele said: “Erasmus MC is internationally recognised for its leadership in pharmacogenetics, and we are pleased that rapid MT-RNR1 testing is being implemented to support time-critical prescribing decisions that help protect newborn babies from profound, irreversible antibiotic-induced hearing loss.

“We continue to see growing international momentum as healthcare systems increasingly recognise the value of rapid point-of-care pharmacogenetics in improving patient outcomes and supporting more efficient healthcare delivery. This latest deployment further strengthens our presence in Europe and builds on the growing adoption of our technology in the UK and internationally”

Prof. Dr. Ron H.N. van Schaik, Full Professor Clinical Chemistry & Pharmacogenetics, Head of Department of Clinical Chemistry at Erasmus MC, said: “Aminoglycoside antibiotics remain an essential treatment for newborn babies with suspected sepsis, but a small number carry the MT-RNR1 genetic variant, placing them at risk of profound, irreversible hearing loss.

“Rapid MT-RNR1 testing enables us to identify those babies before treatment is given, supporting informed prescribing decisions without delaying urgently needed antibiotic treatment. We are proud to be the first medical center in the Netherlands to implement this technology into routine neonatal care.”