Genomics England

A UK government initiative to sequence genomes for healthcare and research

Genomics England logo

Genomics England is a company owned by the Department of Health and Social Care in the United Kingdom. It was established to sequence 100,000 genomes from NHS patients, with a focus on rare diseases, some common types of cancer, and infectious diseases. The initiative aims to create a new genomic medicine service for the NHS, transforming the way people are cared for and treated.

History

Genomics England was announced in 2012 by the then UK Prime Minister David Cameron as part of a broader strategy to position the UK as a leader in genomic medicine. The project officially began in 2013, with the goal of sequencing 100,000 genomes by the end of 2017. This ambitious target was achieved in December 2018.

Objectives

The primary objectives of Genomics England include:

• Sequencing 100,000 genomes to improve understanding of genetic disorders.
• Developing a genomic medicine service for the NHS.
• Enabling new scientific discovery and medical insights.
• Creating an ethical and transparent program based on consent.

The 100,000 Genomes Project

The 100,000 Genomes Project was the flagship initiative of Genomics England. It focused on patients with rare diseases and their families, as well as patients with certain types of cancer. The project aimed to:

• Provide diagnoses for patients with rare diseases.
• Identify potential treatments for cancer patients.
• Develop a rich dataset for research purposes.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Genomics England collaborates with a range of partners, including:

• NHS England
• Public Health England
• Wellcome Trust
• Medical Research Council

These partnerships are crucial for integrating genomic medicine into the NHS and ensuring the project's success.

Ethical Considerations

Genomics England places a strong emphasis on ethical considerations, including:

• Informed consent from participants.
• Data privacy and security.
• Public engagement and transparency.

Future Directions

Following the success of the 100,000 Genomes Project, Genomics England is exploring further opportunities to expand genomic sequencing and integrate it into routine healthcare. This includes:

• Sequencing additional genomes.
• Enhancing data analysis capabilities.
• Expanding research collaborations.

Related pages

• Human Genome Project
• Genomic medicine
• Personalized medicine
• Biobank