Genome sequencing

Genomic medicine is having an impact in pharmacology, cancer, infectious illnesses, and other fields. The examination of genes and gene mutations that cause medical problems is much faster using computers. This not only helps the medical community understand how diseases develop, but also how to cure or perhaps eradicate them. Many research initiatives are under underway to explore how best to treat medical problems such as organ transplant rejection, cystic fibrosis, and malignancies using personalised medicine.

The US government spent around $2.7 billion on the Human Genome Project, which is an insanely huge amount of money. Especially when you consider that DNA sequencing giant Illumina introduced a new equipment in January 2017 that the firm claims would “one day” be able to order your entire genome for less than $100. Illumina's CEO stated last year that the company is still working toward that goal. This means you might be able to get a genetic test for less than the cost of a normal blood test (which ranges from $10 to $150). Mind-blowing!

A test like this has so much potential! You can learn a lot about your drug sensitivity, medical issues that are multifactorial or monogenic, and even your family history. Furthermore, several fields, such as nutrigenomics, a cross-field of nutrition, dietetics, and genomics, are already utilising the benefits of genome sequencing. Personalized meals based on genetic codes are being offered by some companies, such as Habit, a California-based start-up.

The global DNA sequencing market was worth USD 4.7 billion in 2019 and is predicted to increase at a 11.4 percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2020 to 2027.