Updates on key developments in genomics

Gene duo hints at future cure for heart disease

A new study has identified an interaction between two genes that could cause cells in the heart to replicate, opening the door to the first possible curative treatment for heart disease

Analysing the epigenome: a new way to screen for cancer

Could the DNA in our bloodstream provide a way to detect cancer? Recent research looks at a novel approach to screening through a new type of blood test

Coronavirus and the human genome

A new nationwide study will sequence and analyse NHS patients’ genomes as part of the fight against the Covid-19 outbreak

Sepsis and the genome

Recent studies on sepsis show that genomics could hold the key to faster diagnosis and treatment, as well as understanding why it occurs

Non-coding RNA: another piece in the atherosclerosis puzzle

Why do some conditions affect us more as we age? A recent study looked at one in particular, atherosclerosis, and found that non-coding RNA may hold the answers

Colibactin and colorectal cancer

A newly published study could mark a major milestone in understanding the microbiome and the role in can play in disease development
Drawing a family history

10 things to consider when offering a genomic test

Guest author Professor Frances Flinter explains 10 of the most important considerations for professionals and patients

How the UK is cracking the coronavirus code

In the second part of our Covid-19 special, we look at the genomic science and technology behind a new UK consortium to improve understanding of the virus

Book review: My DNA Diary: Sickle Cell Anaemia

In her latest book Lisa Mullan explains the genetic basis of sickle cell disease in an entertaining way for older children and adults

New initiative harnesses genomics in coronavirus fight

In the first of a two-part article, we look at how the NHS is teaming up with academia, researchers and public health agencies to combat Covid-19 with genomics

Genomics in nursing: making a difference to patients

As part of this year’s #GenomicsConversation, guest author Leanne LeRiche shares her family’s experience of genomic testing, and the vital role that nurses play

We all have 'the breast cancer gene'

You’ve seen the headlines and heard people talk about having ‘the gene for’ x, y or z – but do you know the facts behind the headlines?
Doctor with patient

GEP fellow publishes research on patient experience

Lisa Ballard and her co-authors hope their findings about the consent process for genomic testing will inform the new NHS Genomic Medicine Service

What is whole exome sequencing?

Following the recent NHS announcement that WES will be used for critically ill babies and children, we explore what it is and the benefits it could bring

AI in the NHS: what do health professionals need to know?

Can artificial intelligence help bring about personalised and preventative healthcare? AI expert Jessica Morley sums up the 4 key considerations for NHS staff

Prime editing: the new kid on the block

Progress in the field of gene editing has been rapid, but one relatively new technique could be useful for up to 90% of known disease-causing variants

Genomics: combating coronavirus

In the second of two articles focusing on the recent coronavirus outbreak, we explore how genomics is being put to use in diagnosis and treatment

What can genomics tell us about the coronavirus?

As the government declares the coronavirus "a serious and imminent threat", we examine what genomic sequencing has revealed so far about 2019-nCoV
Genomics lab

What is functional genomics?

'Functional genomics' is a phrase that crops up frequently in discussion around genomics, but what does it actually mean?

Whole genome sequencing drives progress in cancer

A new study into metastatic cancers highlights the significant potential for WGS in deepening understanding of the disease and improving treatment options

Direct-to-consumer testing: a clinician's guide

In the second of our articles this week on DTC genetic tests, guest author Dr Rachel Horton explains some of the common pitfalls and the key points clinicians need to know