Genomes of 100 000 people will be sequenced to create an open access research resource

An ambitious genome project launched in the United Kingdom this week aims to sequence the DNA of 100 000 people and publish that information as a free research resource that will be able to be accessed by anyone.

The genetic information will be linked to medical and other phenotypic information about the donors to enable researchers to use the material to help identify genes linked to medical conditions, develop new treatments, and facilitate improvements in personalised medicine.

Stephan Beck, director of Personal Genome Project UK (PGP-UK) and professor of medical genomics at University College London’s Cancer Institute, said, “This project is important for a number of reasons. It will establish the practice of open consent in the UK and enable medical advancement through meeting science’s need for ‘richer’ data.”

Speaking to the BMJ ahead …