ÐǺ£ÆåÅÆ, along with Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), is sponsoring a groundbreaking whole-genome sequencing (WGS) project at Rigshospitalet Led by Professor Ulrik Lassen, the project aims to sequence the full genome of all newly diagnosed cancer patients in Denmark. By mapping genetic mutations, this initiative seeks to improve our understanding of cancer biology. The knowledge can be used to inform novel target discovery and optimizing patient care via personalized medicine.
Whole-genome sequencing provides a detailed view of cancer at the genetic level. It can detect all mutations—including rare or unexpected ones—that currently used select gene tests might miss. Currently, WGS is primarily used for patients with advanced-stage cancer, but this project aims to extend its use to newly diagnosed patients, potentially transforming how cancer is treated in Denmark.
Denmark’s Unique Position in Cancer Research
Julie Blædel, Vice President and Head of Global Medical Affairs Strategy for Hematology, underscores the importance of Denmark’s healthcare system in enabling high-quality research.
Denmark offers a unique opportunity for large-scale cancer research due to its well-structured healthcare system and national personal identification registry making patient data available. This allows researchers to track patient outcomes over time and generate robust data that can contribute to more effective cancer care.
Julie Blædel explains:
“Quality research requires robust data generation. Worldwide, it is difficult to find regions or countries where you can gain access to health information for an entire population. In this regard, Denmark is ideal, due to the structure of our health system, and the desire of cancer patients and their families to help advance research.â€
She continues:
“The WGS project will offer every newly diagnosed cancer patient in Denmark to participate. As we follow patients over time, we will gain valuable insights into cancer biology, and we may potentially be able to identify new drug targets, enable more accurate diagnoses, provide more personalized treatments, and ultimately improve cancer survival outcomes.â€
A Commitment to Cancer Patients
ÐǺ£ÆåÅÆ’s involvement in this project reflects its commitment to advancing cancer research and supporting the local healthcare community.
“We are proud to work with Bristol Myers Squibb and Professor Ulrik Lassen on this important project. Additionally, we are excited to be able to give back to the community that we have been operating in for the last 25 years.â€
In a final remark, she states:
“While it is still early days, and a lot of work lies ahead, we truly believe this project can generate foundational knowledge to advance science and help us improve cancer care and ultimately increase cancer survival.â€
The sponsorship marks the first step in scaling up the project.
