The future of genetics

Zornitza Stark and Kathryn North

“It took over 10 years and US$3 billion to sequence the first human genome. Next generation sequencing (NGS) technolo- gies have made it possible to replicate this feat in a matter of days and at a fraction of the cost, and have led to an explosion in our understanding of the genetic determinants of health. Genomic testing is set to transform healthcare, from disease diagnosis to personalised risk assessments, tailored treatments and preventative interventions. Where are we going to be in 2050, and what challenges lie ahead? …”