Belgium working on national DNA database

Belgium will invest €10 million in the establishment of a technology platform to map the genetic information of tens of thousands of Belgians. A consortium of research institutions, hospitals and businesses have agreed to sign the collaboration agreement for the formation of the national DNA database, writes De Tijd.

The DNA-based platform should allow for more correct diagnoses and effective treatment for patients. The project will also map the genetic health of the Belgian population, with an aim to detect, and eventually prevent, hereditary diseases. The initiators see the platform as a first step towards the creation of a genetic passport for each newborn, which will serve as a guide for lifelong health.

The project first requires the quick and accurate interpretation of hundreds of gigabytes of data. The researchers at Imec Research and iMinds will therefore call on the expertise of various technology companies at home and abroad.

The technology platform is expected to roll out the first DNA data by early next year.