Verkko (Genome Sequencing Project)

2023: Verkko Project Announcement

In mid-February 2023, the results of the study were released, which can help in the fight against malignant formations. The project is called Verkko.

The current standard exome sequencing, which is a detailed analysis of the genes encoding the protein, allows the detection of some mutations and variations that contribute to the development of cancer. Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine have found that genome-wide sequencing provides a broader picture: in particular, medical professionals can identify other changes associated with the formation of malignancies.

Scientists make breakthrough in whole gene sequencing to help understand cancer

We found that by using whole genome sequencing, we can read virtually all the mutations. This is the best technology we have found to identify new factors that cause cancer, "said Dr. Craig Moskowitz, one of the authors of the work.

The team's research, published in the journal Blood Cancer Discovery, involved creating a triage system to isolate hard-to-learn and rare Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg (cHL) cells characteristic of lymphatic system cancer. The study of these abnormal white blood cells in combination with whole genome sequencing will provide scientists with a template for a more detailed study of other types of malignancies.

New mapped regions of the human genome are likely to lead to better understanding and, in turn, improved disease treatment effectiveness. Scientists also hope that the Verkko project will accelerate work on mapping the complete genomes of widespread species of creatures, such as mice and fruit flies, in order to better understand the physiology of these animals.^[1]

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