The myth of the genomic revolution

'Building on our inheritance: Genomic technology in healthcare' is the latest in a long line of reports that have sought to assess the potential of genomic medicine and to outline how policy can best support its development....[Read More]

'Goldilocks' gene response to TB suggests best treatment

The best treatment for tuberculosis (TB) could depend on which version of a particular gene the patient has. Researchers from the UK, US and Vietnam combined studies in zebrafish with clinical work to identify a gene that controls the inflammatory response in TB. It is one of the first applications of personalised medicine outside of cancer medicine...[Read More]

Report examines genomic medicine on the NHS

Genomic medicine will be at the forefront of the NHS, according to a report released last week by the Human Genomics Strategy Group (HGSG). The report highlights the UK's achievements in genomic technology to date and makes six recommendations to ensure future benefit of genomic innovation within the NHS...[Read More]

Desktop machine can sequence a genome in one day for £650

A US biotechnology firm has unveiled an automated desktop DNA sequencer that can decode the sequence of the human genome in one day for as little as $1000 (£650). Given its first public viewing at a consumer electronics show in Las Vegas, Life Technologies Corporation's Ion Proton sequencer uses microchips similar to those found in digital cameras...[Read More]

Progress Educational Trust conference: Making the grade

The third session of the Progress Educational Trust's annual conference 'The Best Possible Start in Life: The Robust and Responsive Embryo' boasted a redoubtable roll-call of eminent clinicians and researchers as speakers. This being the case, I couldn't help wondering if the decision to limit such luminaries to ten minutes apiece was a wise one...[Read More]

Safeguarding consent and confidentiality in clinical genetic practice

Suppose you have just had a genetic test for a condition that you suspect runs in your family. Aside from the possible implications for your own health, could – or should – your results be used to help to interpret tests done on other members of your family?...[Read More]

Book Review: Genetic Twists of Fate

News reports that researchers have linked a certain gene to a disease, condition or trait appear almost daily. The most recent include multiple sclerosis, ovarian cancer, schizophrenia and even intelligence...[Read More]

New software successfully identifies rare disease gene

US scientists have been able to identify the gene responsible for an extremely rare X-linked genetic disorder in record time, using new computer software....[Read More]

Whole-genome sequencing may improve cancer diagnosis

Two US studies have demonstrated how whole-genome screening can help improve cancer treatment and diagnosis. The researchers claim to have taken a major step towards using this type of screening to help predict patients' responses to different treatments based on their genetics...[Read More]

Event Review: Whose Genome Is It Anyway?

Would you publish your genome? Last week, the 12-member Genomes Unzipped project published their direct-to-consumer genetic test results online. They say they're dispelling fears and encouraging discussion about what genetics means for society. But, in a Royal Institution debate on Thursday, Wellcome Trust Director Sir Mark Walport said openly disclosing their DNA would - like drunken Facebook party pictures - return to haunt them...[Read More]

Concerns about genetic testing on freshers at Berkeley

The University of California at Berkeley has recently received a great deal of attention for its revised curriculum for incoming first years which will offer students the opportunity to have a DNA sample analyzed for genetic variants...[Read More]

Making the most of genomics for health

The 2008 'House of Lords Science and Technology Committee Report' on Genomic Medicine failed to adequately reflect the realities of genomics and health, according to a new report released on 18th May 2010...[Read More]

BSHG welcomes the House of Lords report on Genomic Medicine

Since 2003, the framework for policy in Genetics in Medicine in the UK has been the Genetic White Paper 'Our Inheritance Our future.' There is no doubt that its implementation helped modernise and broaden the scope of genetics in the National Health Service (NHS). It developed new support structures including the National Genetics Education Development Centre and the National Genetic Reference Laboratories, and established the (short lived) Genetic Knowledge Parks....[Read More]

New project aims to read 1000 human genomes

An international project to read the entire genetic code of at least 1000 individuals will result in a comprehensive catalogue of human variation that will accelerate efforts to identify genetic factors involved in health and disease, scientists announced last week. The '1000 Genomes Project' will take...[Read More]