HUGO Going Forward

September 15, 2009 · Posted in General 

When you think of the Human Genome Organisation, what words come to mind?

How about:

  • Genome technology
  • Applied genomics
  • Science policy
  • Bioethics
  • Dynamic
  • Relevant
  • International
  • Global
  • Convergence
  • Connectivity
  • Engaging
  • Contemporary
  • Broker of ideas and strategies
  • Genomics and global health
  • Genomics medicine

Words that describe genetics and genomics in the 21st century.

And in the 21st century, this HUGO mission statement is the most critical at this stage of rapid development in genome technology:

To foster the interaction, coordination, and dissemination of information and technology between investigators and the global society in genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, systems biology, and the clinical sciences by promoting quality education, comprehensive communication, and accurate, comprehensive, and accessible knowledge resources for genes, genomes and disease

This mission will be impossible to achieve without strong leadership. Taking a look back at recent achievements in the field of human genetics, there have been growing numbers of associations found between genetic variants and various traits and conditions. These results are mostly from genome-wide association studies that have become a matter of routine. Unfortunately, the capability to analyze and understand the data that come from such studies remains limited by computing power and biological knowledge. Only a fraction of the the overwhelming flow of data has truly been fully analyzed and thoroughly understood.

Similarly, personal genomic testing companies that deliver data on thousands of SNPs for every customer are available as well but the impact on consumer health is still not clear. Not far behind, whole genome sequencing will be widely available within a few years for the target price of $1,000 per genome.

What will we do and what should we do with all this information?

There needs to be an unbiased, international organization willing to take the lead in organizing, evaluating, and guiding the use of genome technology and the application of genetic data in both the private and public sectors. HUGO is up to the challenge.

Photo: Singapore’s Marina Bay Pedestrian bridge symbolizes DNA’s double helix and highlights Singapore’s aspirations as a biomedical hub.

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