By Emily Craig Deputy Health Editor For Mailonline
00:01 30 Nov 2023, updated 00:34 30 Nov 2023
- UK Biobank published whole genome sequencing data for half a million people
- Researchers said it gives ‘the most detailed picture of human health that exists’
Scientists have released the largest ever set of patients’ genetic data that could drive new tests, treatments and cures, in a ‘momentous landmark for medical research’.
UK Biobank published whole genome sequencing data for half a million people.
Researchers said it provides ‘the most detailed picture of human health that exists’ and equips them with the ‘ultimate toolbox’ to make new discoveries about how diseases develop.
Whole genome sequencing analyses the entire human genome – a unique genetic code of three billion building blocks.
Among other things, the data could enable researchers to look at personalised risk of common disease, better understand genetic diseases and develop new and better drugs.
Professor Naomi Allen, chief scientist, UK Biobank, said the release of the data means that ‘within a few years we may well see new and more effective drugs for diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, rare genetic diseases (Huntington’s, motor neurone disease) and cancers’.
