Q: What is Newfound Genomics?
A: Newfound Genomics is a genomics research company based in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are working to gain a better understanding of the relationships between genes and human health. Through our research we hope to contribute to earlier identification of diseases, become better able to predict the course of disease, and tailor drugs that are more effective and have fewer side effects.
Q: What kind of ethical standards do you follow?
A: Newfound Genomics meets all local, national and international ethical and regulatory standards for conducting human research. All research conducted by Newfound Genomics is in compliance with the World Health Organization.
Q: What benefits does Newfound Genomics offer to the province?
A: Genetics research is one of the world's fastest growing industries. Work conducted by Newfound Genomics is helping to position Newfoundland and Labrador and its academic institutions as leaders in genetics research. Our growth and success will help to create a hub of clinical genetics expertise, and will act as a catalyst for additional
commercial and academic genomics activity.
Newfound Genomics has established Newfoundland and Labrador's first fully functional state-of-the-art genomics lab for genetics research and analysis activities.
Newfound Genomics and its partners will make a significant investment in the local economy. We are providing employment opportunities in our facility, and we are working in collaboration with Memorial University to provide research training for scientists, students and health care professionals.
Newfound Genomics is conducting research across Newfoundland and Labrador. Our goal is to hire locally whenever possible. Employment opportunities include skilled positions in human resources, clinical data collection, information technology, genotyping and data analysis. Newfound Genomics operates in several locations across the province employing a team of 10 highly qualified individuals between its offices in St. John's and the province's West Coast. This team is supported by, and works in collaboration with a clinical network of 35 physicians throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, which is further supported by a group of 20 clinical nurses and technologists.
Q: Why would someone participate in a Newfound Genomics study?
A: Donor volunteers may provide a valuable contribution to the understanding of a particular disease, or to the development of a diagnostic test. The information may benefit them, their family members or others with similar diseases who will access these new gene-based drugs or diagnostic tests.
Q: Are donors paid for contributing their DNA?
A: It is considered unethical to purchase body parts or fluids in Canada, so all participants in our studies must be volunteers. However, a travel allowance may be available.
Q: Can you explain the science behind the analysis of DNA? How does it work?
A: There is an increasing realization that common diseases have a genetic basis. With advancements in gene analysis, we are now able to identify genetic regions in a person's DNA that are associated with disease. This has implications in terms of health care. For example, through genomics research, we hope to identify diseases earlier and develop more effective drugs.
Q: What happens to the blood once collected? What happens to the DNA?
A: DNA is extracted from collected blood samples. The DNA is then stored in –86 degree freezers until it is ready for genotyping, which is an analysis using genetic markers. After genotyping, the data is analyzed by complex computer programs. The DNA that is not used for the initial study can be stored for an indefinite period. Volunteers however, must give approval for their DNA to be used for any additional studies.
Q: Will the DNA remain in Newfoundland?
A: With the development of our new fully functional genomics lab, DNA collected by Newfound Genomics will be analyzed and stored in the province, providing knowledge that will lead to healthier lives for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Q: Will there be training opportunities with Newfound Genomics?
A: New opportunities in the advancement of higher learning will evolve as a result of research conducted by Newfound Genomics. New teaching and training programs will be required to meet the demands of this new and growing industry. Because Newfound Genomics research will be conducted in Newfoundland, the province's students will benefit from a rich training environment in all aspects of genetics and life sciences research.
Q: What happens to genetic information if Newfound Genomics changes its operation?
A: According to the strict ethical principles under which Newfound Genomics operates, if there is a change in company ownership, volunteers have a right to stop participating in a study and reclaim their DNA or request that their DNA be destroyed.
Q: How will Newfound Genomics profit from its research?
A: We expect that our discoveries will provide us with licensable products which pharmaceutical, diagnostic, genomic and biotechnology companies will use in drug discovery and/or gene-based diagnostic applications.
Q: Will insurance companies have access to the DNA?
A: No, insurance companies will not have access to the DNA. Newfound Genomics is committed to protecting the privacy of their donor volunteers. In fact, we keep all personal identifying information separate from the DNA.
Q: Will Newfound Genomics provide individual feedback of the findings from the DNA collected?
A: Newfound Genomics will ensure volunteers have access to updated information regarding its studies through such communication media as its web site. Newfound Genomics however, does not provide screening services to identify complex disease causing genes. Newfound Genomics is a research lab with a focus on common diseases, working to identify genes relating to an existing condition/disease. Through our commitment to protect the privacy of donor volunteers, we will not be contacting an individual on any findings relating to their DNA.
Q: How does this compare to the Human Genome project? Is it part of it?
A: The Human Genome Project is an international initiative to sequence the human genome. We will use some of the information being generated by this project to identify genes related to health and disease.
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