Genomics England, Update
October 29, 2013 | Terry Sharrer
Tagline mentioned the Genomics England Project when it was announced last year, but here is an update on the work of creating a vast database of 100,000 whole genome sequences from individuals in the British NHS. This raises an obvious comparison with the US where only the V. A. and military hospitals have 100k prospective participants in the short run. However, a “federal” Genomics America effort could build upon neonate genetic screening which has been mandated everywhere in the US since 1970. It would have to be expanded to complete exome or full genomic sequencing from the 48 or so screens that are now done. But that probably is too cost-effective and health-effective to be seriously considered today. MORE