Definition
A way of analysing only the parts of whole exome and whole genome sequence data that are thought to be relevant to the clinical presentation.
Use in clinical context
Virtual panels are applied to the large amounts of data generated by whole exome and whole genome sequencing. This allows only the parts of the exome or genome that fit with the clinical presentation to be examined.
Unlike a standard panel test, different panels can be applied to the data, if necessary, without having to re-sequence a patient’s sample.
Virtual panels are used in clinical testing and in research. Genomics England’s PanelApp provides resource of panels used both in research and within the NHS Genomic Medicine Service.
Related terms
Exome | Genome | Panel testing | Sequencing | Whole exome sequencing | Whole genome sequencing
