Personal Genome Project UK (PGP-UK): a research and citizen science hybrid project in support of personalized medicine

Personal Genome Project UK (PGP UK), Colin Smith

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background

Molecular analyses such as whole-genome sequencing have become routine and are expected to be transformational for future healthcare and lifestyle decisions. Population-wide implementation of such analyses is, however, not without challenges, and multiple studies are ongoing to identify what these are and explore how they can be addressed.

Methods

Defined as a research project, the Personal Genome Project UK (PGP-UK) is part of the global PGP network and focuses on open data sharing and citizen science to advance and accelerate personalized genomics and medicine.

Results

Here we report our findings on using an open consent recruitment protocol, active participant involvement, open access release of personal genome, methylome and transcriptome data and associated analyses, including 47 new variants predicted to affect gene function and innovative reports based on the analysis of genetic and epigenetic variants. For this pilot study, we recruited 10 participants willing to actively engage as citizen scientists with the project. In addition, we introduce Genome Donation as a novel mechanism for openly sharing previously restricted data and discuss the first three donations received. Lastly, we present GenoME, a free, open-source educational app suitable for the lay public to allow exploration of personal genomes.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that citizen science-based approaches like PGP-UK have an important role to play in the public awareness, acceptance and implementation of genomics and personalized medicine.
Original languageEnglish
Article number108
Number of pages12
JournalBMC Medical Genomics
Volume11
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 27 Nov 2018

Keywords

  • Personal Genomics
  • Open consent
  • Open access
  • Genome donation
  • Genome reports
  • Genome App
  • Citizen Science

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