UK Biobank Releases Largest Genome Dataset in the World

The UK Biobank has made a groundbreaking announcement, releasing entire genome sequences for nearly half a million people, making it the largest dataset of its kind in the world. This resource has the potential to revolutionize the field of genomics, offering new insights into the causes of major common diseases and guiding the choice of potential therapeutic targets.

Sir Rory Collins, PhD, principal investigator of the UK Biobank, described the release as a “veritable treasure trove” for approved scientists undertaking health research, with the potential for transformative results in diagnoses, treatments, and cures globally. Industry partner Johnson & Johnson’s Executive Vice President for Innovative Medicine Research and Development, John Reed, PhD, believes that this landmark dataset could pave the way for more efficient clinical development and drive progress towards precision medicine.

The UK Biobank whole genome sequencing (WGS) consortium, formed in 2018, aimed to sequence the genomes of all UK Biobank participants. The five-year project, costing £200m and involving 11 partners, resulted in the sequencing of 491,554 genomes. Half of the funding came from the UK government and Wellcome, with the remaining £100 million provided by biopharmaceutical and healthcare companies Amgen, AstraZeneca, GlaxoSmithKline, and Johnson & Johnson.

In return for their investment, each of the four companies received a nine-month head start with the data before its public release. This groundbreaking dataset will enable scientists to explore how genetics affect physiological factors more closely than ever before, promising to accelerate our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of disease.

Researchers can now apply to access de-identified full genome data from half a million participants, alongside a rich combination of medical, biochemical, lifestyle, and environmental data. This milestone marks an important step in realizing the potential of genetics for biomedical research, innovation, and translation to the clinic. The possibilities for new discoveries and advancements in healthcare are endless with this unprecedented dataset at their fingertips.