GEP launches new film series for GMC laboratory staff

‘Sample Processing and DNA Extraction’ outlines the correct protocol for processing patient samples for the 100,000 Genomes Project

HEE’s Genomics Education Programme is proud to announce the launch of its latest educational resource for laboratory staff working on the 100,000 Genomes Project – seven new educational films for those who work in molecular genetics and histopathology laboratories.

The new films outline the processes that should be followed to prepare samples and extract DNA for the 100,000 Genomes Project in order to ensure successful whole genome sequencing.

The seven films cover different aspects of the process, as follows:

  1. Introduction to sample processing for whole genome sequencing
  2. Receiving patient samples
  3. Extracting DNA from blood
  4. Processing omics samples
  5. Processing solid tumour samples
  6. Extracting DNA from solid tumour
  7. The impact on NHS laboratory teams

The final film outlines the exciting possibilities of modern sequencing technology and the changes that whole genome sequencing is already bringing to the NHS and patient care. Professor Sue Hill OBE, Chief Scientific Officer, emphasises the significance of the 100,000 Genomes Project and the invaluable contribution of laboratory staff:

“The 100,000 Genomes Project and the work of the NHS Genomic Medicine Centres provide the opportunity to transform the care of our patients, now and in the future, and to inform new diagnoses and tailored treatments to improve efficiency and outcomes of what the NHS does so very well. By ensuring that laboratory staff deliver the highest quality raw material for this project the DNA that is extracted from participant samples will ensure that high quality genomic information is returned.”

The films are available here. Once all the films have been viewed, participants wishing to keep a record for their professional learning portfolio can download a course completion certificate.

If you have any questions or comments, please contact Amelia.McPherson@hee.nhs.uk