Leeds genetic research ’blueprint’ for NHS

The approach to genetic research established at the University of Leeds could serve as a blueprint for how the NHS could make more of the advances new genetic technologies can deliver.

The UK Government has set up a Human Genomics Strategy Group to improve new advances in genetic medicine in the health service.

The group's Chair, Sir John Bell, is on record as warning that the NHS is a long way from reaping the benefits of a "sea change" in genetic technology, and needs to act now to adapt.

But the latest technology for sequencing human genomes and its application to NHS care is already well established in Leeds, thanks to work by Professor Colin Johnson and colleagues at Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, part of the University of Leeds' School of Medicine.

A report by Channel 4 News showcasing this work can be viewed below:

More on the report, including comment from Sir Alex Markham, head of translational medicine at Leeds Institute of Molecular Medicine, can be found here: NHS 'off the pace' in genetic res earch

More news about genetic research at the University of Leeds can be found here: Discovery of new muscle repair gene , Researchers probe genetic link to blindness , Researchers find gene linked to birth d efects