Oxford Nanopore Technologies has partnered with UK Biobank to create a large-scale epigenetic dataset targeting the causes of cancer, dementia, and complex diseases.
The project will use Oxford Nanopore’s advanced DNA/RNA sequencing technology to map the epigenome of 50,000 participants.
The data will be publicly available, offering a resource for the scientific community to advance genomics research.
UK Biobank chief scientist officer Naomi Allen said: “Right now, researchers only have small amounts of epigenetic data to study, this project will create a dataset unlike anything else in the world. It is orders of magnitude bigger, and because of the technology, the data will be much more detailed.
“Combining epigenetic data with the existing genetic, imaging, proteomic and lifestyle data that UK Biobank holds for our participants, will lead to a much better understanding of how diseases develop in mid- to old age.”
The partnership aims to capture the full spectrum of the epigenome, or epigenetic markers across the genome.
By mapping 98% of the epigenome, researchers can better understand the causes of diseases like cancer, neurological disorders, and rare conditions.
Oxford Nanopore said the dataset will focus on predominantly healthy participants, providing a vital baseline for disease studies.
It will also help create population-level risk profiles, enabling more personalised healthcare interventions in the future.
According to the molecular sensing technology company, this initiative could lead to new clinical applications, such as disease risk screening and precise diagnostics for early-stage detection.
Identifying epigenetic markers before conventional symptoms appear, can help in earlier interventions. With this data, doctors could tailor treatments to individual epigenetic profiles, resulting in more effective and personalised healthcare, Oxford Nanopore Technologies said.
Oxford Nanopore CEO Gordon Sanghera said: “This project represents a significant leap forward in epigenetic research, an increasingly important area of study related to disease progression and response to treatment.
“Working with UK Biobank to create the world’s largest epigenetic dataset aligns with our commitment to drive discovery in healthcare and genomics.”
This epigenetic dataset builds on the strategic partnership with the UK Government, UK Biobank, Genomics England, and NHS England to drive research aimed at enhancing patient care in the UK and globally.
Recently, the UK government joined forces with Oxford Nanopore and other healthcare organisations to develop a pathogen surveillance system for future pandemics.
