Genomics Demos the weSNP App

Genomics is developing algorithms, curated data resources, and software solutions to uncover the relationships between genetic variation and human traits and diseases. Delegates at the ASHG 2015 conference were recently granted  access to part of its genetic association platform via a new mobile app weSNP for Android, iPhone and iPad devices. weSNP provided a window into some of the data in the curated Genomics database, presenting over 250 studies and 7 million common genetic variants and enabled ASHG delegates to uncover the structure of genetic association across seven phenotypic categories and over 160 individual phenotypes

To find out more about the weSNP app and their recently announced collaboration with Biogen, we spoke to John Colenutt, CEO, Genomics plc.

JC: We developed the mobile app, weSNP, to enable delegates at the ASHG 2015 conference to access part of our genetic association platform, to gain a sense of the available resources and see the structure of genetic association across five phenotypic categories and over 160 individual phenotypes. The app generated considerable interest at ASHG and led to a number of discussions with key counterparts about our extensive curated database and associated tools.

JR: What are your future plans for weSNP?

JC: weSNP was an opportunity to showcase a few of the features and functionality available from the integrated platform we have built for genomic analysis. We are not planning to provide the app on a permanent basis.

JR: You recently signed a collaboration agreement with Biogen, what is the focus of this?

JC: The collaboration aims to refine drug target selection through the use of sophisticated analysis of human genetic data. Under the terms of the agreement, Biogen will leverage findings from our integrated database and state-of-the-art analysis tools, which will be used to guide drug research and development. Biogen will use these findings to help answer questions regarding the likely efficacy and safety of their intended drug targets.

JR: What does the Biogen collaboration mean for customers?

JC: The agreement highlights the growing commitment within the pharmaceutical and biotech industries to systematically use human genetic data in research to increase the chance of success in drug development. With our proprietary technology, integrated database and tools, Genomics is ideally positioned to support pharma and biotech companies in this area.

JR: What is next for Genomics?

JC: We will continue to focus on helping our growing list of pharma partners to "de-risk” the drug development process through access to our genetic association platform. We are also applying our sophisticated statistical approaches to develop genomic analysis tools that will add value in a clinical setting - our first product is already in a beta testing phase with key partners, and our second is not far behind.