Thursday, March 3, 2011

Genomics Pioneer Leads Internationally Recognized Institute

Dr.Claire M. Fraser-Liggett,PhD,one of the first scientists to describe sequencing techniques for microbial genomics,enabling the mapping of a complete genetic blueprint for bacteria species,was recruited by the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 2007 to head its new Institute for Genomic Sciences(IGS).She was seeking strategic collaborations in which results from sequencing the human genome could catalyse advances in health care,integrating genomics with biomedical research.
Dr.Fraser-Liggett brought a team of more than a dozen senior investigators with her from The Insitute for Genomic Research(TIGR)in Rockville,Maryland to IGS.Located at the University of Maryland BioPark in Baltimore,this new research center of international excellence,which was formally opened in April 2009,is using genomics to develop personalised medicine,a more detailed treatment methodology than current practice.For example,in personalised medicine,there could be different treatments for different types of pain patients may be experiencing,rather then a blanket approach to pain,based on expanded knowledge of disease processes achieved through genomics research.Such an approach is believed to hold promise for more effective treatments with fewer side effects.
Among other topics being studied at IGS are the human microbiome,the vast collection of microbes inhabiting the human body and the role of their genomics in disease processes;and deveoping better malaria drugs and vaccines.
These studies involve more than merely cataloging DNA sequence data.The data must also be analysed and annotated,adding biological data to genomic sequences.The ablity of IGS to do this is globally admired.
Dr.Fraser-Liggett has a BS in biology from Renssalaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy,New York,and a PhD in pharmacology from the State University of New York.
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