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New genome project in Erlangen: Hope for patients with rare diseases!
Erlangen is launching a nationwide genome sequencing project to improve the diagnosis of rare diseases and cancers.
New genome project in Erlangen: Hope for patients with rare diseases!
Something remarkable is happening in Bavaria's healthcare landscape. The Erlangen University Hospital, together with the Human Genetics Institute and the Center for Rare Diseases, have launched a pioneering model project for genome sequencing. The project by the UK Erlangen was initiated, aims to explore the use of whole genome sequencing to diagnose and treat rare diseases and advanced cancers.
But what does this actually mean for patients? Those affected can now take part in the study and receive comprehensive molecular diagnostics. Prof. Dr. Silvia Spörl, one of the senior doctors, emphasizes how important genome sequencing is for improving the treatment of cancer patients. The medical suitability of the participants is carefully evaluated and patients are admitted via structured decision-making processes.
Integration into a nationwide research project
This model project is part of a larger nationwide research project that is supported by the Association of Health Insurance Funds and the Association of University Hospitals in Germany. The study extends over five years and enables the participants' entire genetic information to be analyzed in detail. The German health portal reports that 27 clinics across Germany are involved in this important project in order to significantly advance diagnostics and therapy finding for tumor patients and those affected with rare diseases.
The Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital in Dresden has also been awarded a contract for the model project, and over 450 patients benefit from tailor-made procedures every year. Genome sequencing is seen as the key to personalized medicine, which helps to better tailor therapies to individual tumor profiles.
Opportunities for those affected by rare diseases
Genome sequencing is ushering in a new era for individual diagnosis. Patients suffering from rare congenital diseases provide a blood sample that is examined for genetic changes. In the case of advanced cancer, however, those affected have tumor tissue analyzed in order to explore new treatment options.
Project leaders and experts emphasize the immense importance of molecular diagnostics. The collected genetic and clinical data is collected on a central platform in compliance with data protection regulations, which can be of great benefit to both research and patients.
The project not only contributes to the digitalization of medicine, but also to the further development of medical informatics in Germany. Interested patients and doctors have the opportunity to obtain information about the Center for Personalized Medicine or the spokespersons for the Center for Rare Diseases.
Overall, the pilot project is a significant step towards more precise medical care and offers new hope for many sufferers who are looking for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.