Updates on key developments in genomics

New genomic data studies launch to combat Covid-19

How can genomic data help in the fight against coronavirus? We look at the pros and cons of two new approaches

What is NIPD?

Non-invasive prenatal diagnosis can provide vital information about a pregnancy, but when should the technique be used, and how does it differ from NIPT?

Genome editing trial suggests cure for blood diseases

Recent tests have established a potential cure for sickle cell disease and beta thalassaemia by using genome editing on bone marrow stem cells

The impact of Covid-19 on rare disease communities

Guest author Dr Christine Patch explains the challenges in supporting patients with rare disease during the pandemic, as well as the opportunities that may arise

Genomic trigger found for inflammation

Could we ‘turn off’ our body’s unwanted immune responses? New research has found a genetic switch in our non-coding DNA that could help treat complex allergic disease

Rapid exome sequencing: a look inside the lab

Clinical scientist Dr Julia Baptista explains what – and who – is involved when the NHS sequences the DNA from all an individual’s 20,000 protein-coding genes

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