J. Craig Venter’s company, HLI, is collaborating with Discovery Health to offer DNA sequencing to clients for $250, aiming to analyze one million genomes in four years. This initiative, targeting a comprehensive dataset of genetic and medical histories, will allow for informed health predictions while being part of a larger wellness program. The venture seeks to enhance consumer access to vital genetic information and expand on previously established health insights.
J. Craig Venter, a pivotal figure in genetics, has launched a new initiative allowing consumers access to DNA data through his company, Human Longevity Inc. (HLI). This effort follows his earlier achievements in DNA sequencing, including sequencing his own genome at an immense cost. Venter’s recent collaboration with a South African health insurer, Discovery, aims to sequence key genes of clients for a fee of $250, with costs partially covered by the insurer.
HLI, launched 18 months ago in La Jolla, California, is recognized as the world’s largest DNA-sequencing lab. The company seeks to analyze one million genomes over four years, aiming to construct a vast private database encompassing DNA and medical histories, thereby enhancing wellness and health predictions. This partnership with Discovery represents a significant step in making genetic information available to consumers.
Jonathan Broomberg, CEO of Discovery Health, commented on the collaborative effort to provide genomic services as part of a wellness program. Clients will receive genetic data interpreted by healthcare professionals rather than directly, ensuring an informed approach to using this information. The data from this sequencing, called the “exome,” covers essential genes related to major health concerns while maintaining affordability to encourage participation.
Venter co-founded HLI to create the largest repository of human genetic and medical data. He emphasizes that understanding genetic influences on diseases is still in its infancy. His previous experience includes partnerships with research institutions like Genentech, which have relied on genomic data for their findings. This initiative underscores the potential for genomic insights to drive advancements in personalized medicine.
As part of its ambition, HLI aims to integrate extensive African genetic diversity into global research. Venter believes the true connections between genetics and health will be clearer with extensive data. Concurrently, the U.S. government is pursuing a similar effort under the precision medicine initiative, although Venter’s endeavor may accelerate at a faster pace.
The company is also developing predictive models to analyze health risks based on genetic data. HLI’s innovations are complemented by a forthcoming “health nucleus” center, targeting elite athletes and corporate executives, offering comprehensive testing services costing $25,000. This center will provide detailed genomic analyses to enhance participants’ health outcomes while expanding the genomic database.
Despite Venter’s scientific proficiency, there are concerns regarding patient care experience and the practicality of the plan. Engaging with investors, HLI seeks to secure the necessary funding to realize its expansive goals, recognizing challenges in the economic viability of sequencing one million genomes. Venter’s vision includes various common genetic tests to amplify HLI’s presence amid an increasingly competitive landscape.
J. Craig Venter’s initiative to provide DNA data to consumers through Human Longevity Inc. heralds a new era in personalized health management. The collaboration with Discovery Health illustrates a novel approach to making genomic services accessible while prioritizing patient care. As the project unfolds, it has the potential to reshape understanding of genetics in health, though it faces challenges in execution and funding.
Original Source: www.technologyreview.com
