The sequencing revolution: Enabling personal genomics and personalised medicine

Abstract

It has been 10 years since the completion of the first draft of the human genome. Today, we are in the midst of a full assault on the human genetic code, racing to uncover the genetic mechanisms that affect disease, aging, happiness, violence ... and just about every imaginable human variation. Advances in DNA sequencing technology have enabled individuals to have their own genomes sequenced rapidly, cheaply and in astonishing detail. The sequencing revolution is also changing the way the pharmaceutical industry develops, tests and targets new medicines.