First pass at creating a human pangenome

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In summary, a human pangenome is the complete set of genetic information for all individuals within a species, including variations and differences in genetic sequences. It is important to create a human pangenome in order to better understand genetic diversity and its impact on disease, personalized medicine, and evolution. The human pangenome is being created through sequencing and analyzing the genomes of thousands of individuals from different populations. Some challenges in creating a human pangenome include the vast amount of data, high cost of sequencing, and ethical considerations. The human pangenome will benefit scientific research by providing a more comprehensive understanding of human genetic variation, leading to advancements in various fields such as personalized medicine, disease treatment, and evolutionary studies.
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Data from 47 out of 350 people worldwide that specifically looked at 0.1% of the human genome which is very variable as opposed to the other 99.9% of the human genome
Popular science:
https://www.livescience.com/health/...building-blocks-to-the-human-reference-genome
Nature (open access:)
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-05896-x

A pangenome is a genomic map using extant variable genes as found in populations across continents.

First pass on genomic data from 47 humans. The genes represent a group of very variable human genes, sampled across world populations. The study's endpoint is 350 individuals, so this is a start using a small dataset. The report focuses on improved methodologies that will be applied to genomes from additional people.
 
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This is an exciting development in the field of genetics and genomics. The publication of the first draft of a human pangenome is a significant step towards understanding the full complexity of the human genome. By including genes from diverse populations, this pangenome provides a more comprehensive representation of the genetic diversity within the human species.

One of the most interesting aspects of this study is the use of improved methodologies to analyze and interpret the data. This approach will not only allow for a more accurate representation of the pangenome, but also provide insights into the genetic variations and mutations that exist within the human population.

Furthermore, the open access nature of this study is commendable as it allows for collaboration and further research by the scientific community. This will undoubtedly lead to a better understanding of the human genome and its role in health and disease.

However, it is important to note that this is just the first pass at creating a human pangenome and there is still a lot of work to be done. As the study mentions, the endpoint is to include 350 individuals, and it will be interesting to see how the pangenome evolves as more data is added.

Overall, this is a promising development in the field of genetics and has the potential to greatly impact our understanding of the human genome. I look forward to seeing how this research progresses and the insights it will provide into the genetic makeup of our species.
 

FAQ: First pass at creating a human pangenome

What is a human pangenome?

A human pangenome is a comprehensive reference that captures the full genetic diversity of the human species. Unlike a single reference genome, which represents the DNA sequence of one individual, a pangenome includes sequences from multiple individuals, providing a more complete picture of genetic variation and structural differences across different populations.

Why is creating a human pangenome important?

Creating a human pangenome is important because it allows scientists to understand the full spectrum of human genetic diversity. This can improve our understanding of genetic diseases, enhance precision medicine, and provide insights into human evolution. It also helps in identifying genetic variations that may be missed when relying on a single reference genome.

How is a human pangenome created?

A human pangenome is created by sequencing the genomes of a diverse group of individuals from different populations around the world. Advanced computational methods are then used to align and integrate these sequences into a unified reference that represents the genetic diversity of the human species. This process involves extensive data analysis and bioinformatics to manage and interpret the vast amount of genetic information.

What challenges are involved in creating a human pangenome?

Creating a human pangenome involves several challenges, including the need for high-quality sequencing data from a diverse set of individuals, the computational complexity of assembling and integrating these sequences, and the difficulty of accurately representing structural variations and complex regions of the genome. Additionally, ethical considerations around data privacy and consent must be addressed when collecting and using genetic information from individuals.

How will the human pangenome impact medical research and healthcare?

The human pangenome has the potential to significantly impact medical research and healthcare by providing a more accurate and comprehensive reference for studying genetic diseases, identifying disease-associated variants, and developing personalized treatments. It can also improve the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that are influenced by genetic diversity and help in the discovery of new therapeutic targets. Ultimately, the human pangenome will contribute to more effective and equitable healthcare for people of diverse genetic backgrounds.

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