Genomics plc, Oxford, United Kingdom, has entered into a collaboration agreement with Oxford University and the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for a research project focused on the translation of whole genome sequencing into clinical practice.
Technological developments in gene sequencing have resulted in a significant increase in the amount of genomic data available to researchers. According to Genomics, however, making sense of the data is proving to be a bottleneck for the translation of genomic information into clinical care.
To address this problem, Genomics has developed an analytical platform that combines proprietary algorithms and software with the company’s expertise in data mining of large genomic databases to uncover the relationships between genetic variation and human disease.
As part of its collaboration with Oxford University and the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Genomics will apply its bioinformatics tools to analyze and interpret up to 500 genome sequences, focusing on rare diseases and cancer.
John Colenutt, Genomics plc.
“We are excited to be working with these leading centers in the rapidly growing area of genomic analysis,” says John Colenutt, CEO of Genomics plc. “The project provides us with the opportunity to apply our data analysis solutions to analyze genomes at scale and in a clinical context, and to demonstrate the real value that analyses of large genomic databases can add to research programs such as this.”
Supported by the Wellcome Trust and the UK Department of Health, through the Health Innovation Challenge Fund, the project aims to establish genome sequencing as a clinical tool across a wide range of disorders, including rare diseases and cancers. The partners are seeking to develop new tools to aid clinicians and improve patient outcomes. The study will also serve as a pilot for other national-scale programs to integrate genomics and healthcare.
Jenny Taylor, University of Oxford.
“This collaboration agreement has great potential to bring genome sequencing closer to routine clinical practice,” says Jenny Taylor, associate professor, program director, and principal investigator for the study at the University of Oxford. “The depth of expertise and time needed to provide accurate interpretation of whole genome information is a real barrier to its widespread acceptance. We are excited to explore Genomics’ tools for automated and flexible analysis and look forward to working alongside them to drive the development of tools that are fit for widespread deployment.”
For more information, visit Genomics.
