#MGI Tech #South Africa #Cape Town #SAMRC #DNBSEQ-T7

MGI Tech, SAMRC, and DSTI Launch Groundbreaking Genomic Initiatives in South Africa

In a significant advancement for the field of genomics on the African continent, MGI Tech Co., Ltd. has announced two monumental achievements in partnership with the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) and the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI). Together, they unveiled Africa's first DNBSEQ-T7 sequencing platform, alongside the initiation of the ambitious 110K Human Genome Program aimed at documenting the genomic data of 110,000 South Africans.

The Unveiling of the DNBSEQ-T7 Sequencing Platform

This newly operational DNBSEQ-T7 platform located at the SAMRC’s Genomics Center in Cape Town represents a cutting-edge advancement in genomic sequencing technology. Recognized as one of the most sophisticated ultra-high-throughput sequencing systems in Africa, the DNBSEQ-T7 is designed to deliver unparalleled data throughput, speed, scale, and accuracy. This capability significantly reduces sequencing costs, facilitating accessibility for researchers and healthcare providers across the continent.

Professor Ntobeko Ntusi, CEO of SAMRC, remarked, “This collaboration is a strategic investment in developing local capacity and an efficient genomic sequencing infrastructure, enhancing affordability, scalability, and sustainability for population-scale genomics in South Africa.” The DNBSEQ-T7 not only strengthens local research capabilities but also empowers African scientists in various fields, including clinical genetics and infectious disease research.

The 110K Human Genome Program: A National Initiative

The 110K Human Genome Program, a collaborative effort by the SAMRC, DSTI, and MGI, aims to close the gap in global genomic data representation for African populations. The initiative seeks to establish South Africa's first comprehensive national genomic reference database by sequencing a vast number of human genomes. In its pilot phase, the program will focus on sequencing up to 10,000 genomes, thereby creating a crucial resource for understanding population-specific genetic diversity, enhancing diagnoses, treatments, and prevention methods for diseases prevalent in the region.

Glaudina Loots, Director for Health Innovation at the DSTI, stated, “This partnership signifies a practical step towards realizing South Africa's Precision Medicine agenda. We are building a sustainable and inclusive genomics ecosystem that opens avenues for funding through collaborative platforms, reinforcing our commitment to South-South cooperation.” This initiative aims not only to advance national healthcare but also to position South Africa at the forefront of global genomic advancements.

The DNBSEQ-T7 is already making strides, having sequenced numerous genomes from notable studies, including 96 lion genomes and several human genomes from patients with rare, undiagnosed conditions. These efforts underscore the importance of local expertise in the field of genomics and the unique contributions South Africa can make to the global scientific community.

A New Era in African Genomics

In summary, MGI Tech’s collaboration with SAMRC and DSTI marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of genomics within Africa. By merging advanced technology with local knowledge, they are shaping a future where Africa leads in genomic research and application. This initiative not only addresses the underrepresentation of African genomic data but also fosters scientific independence, significantly improving health outcomes for the population.

Duncan Yu, President of MGI Tech, expressed pride in this partnership, stating, “We stand alongside Africa’s scientists to unlock the continent’s genomic potential and tackle its unique health challenges. This effort is about more than technology; it’s about ensuring that African data plays a vital role in the global narrative.” The launch of the DNBSEQ-T7 and the 110K Human Genome Program paves the way for a thriving genomic landscape in South Africa, promoting precision medicine tailored to local populations and their unique health challenges.

As these initiatives progress, they will undoubtedly contribute to a richer understanding of human genetics and foster advancements that resonate far beyond South Africa, influencing the future of health and science on the continent and worldwide.