NantHealth and the University of Utah are working together to analyze the genomic profiles of 1,000 individuals who have a family history of rare and life-threatening diseases and conditions.

The organizations will research the genetic causes of 25 conditions, including, breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancers, ALS, autism, preterm birth, epilepsy.

The University of Utah will employ Nant Health’s genomic sequencing platform to conduct extensive testing, including analysis of germline and somatic samples. University of Utah and NantOmics researchers will explore the underlying genetic causes of certain diseases at the cellular level.

NantHealth CEO Patrick Soon-Shiong, MD, said in a statement that the partnership intends to speed cures because the work will lead to understanding the molecular profile and underlying genetic basis of various conditions and diseases.

The University of Utah oversees the Utah Population Database, working in partnership with the many contributors of data. The Heritage 1K Project will expand and focus Utah Genome Project research discovery efforts to help patients prevent, diagnose, and successfully treat diseases that have afflicted their families.

“By leveraging the power of genome sequencing, our researchers are now transforming our understanding of common diseases and how they should be treated,” added University of Utah Health Care CEO Vivian Lee, MD. 

Twitter: @Bernie_HITN
Email the writer: bernie.monegain@himssmedia.com

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