News and updates 2 December 2021

InGeNA is an industry genomics community brought to you by the Australasian Institute of Digital Health.

Upcoming webinar: Valuing the impacts of genomics on healthcare in Australia

InGeNA will launch a report on valuing the impact of genomics on healthcare this month. A special webinar event is scheduled for Monday 13 December to hear more about the report. Join us to hear about the case studies, the key outcomes and understand the opportunities genomics holds for individuals, families and carers, society, and our health system. All welcome.

InGeNA hosted a webinar in November where two expert speakers spoke about unlocking the benefits and the immense potential of genomics in Australia, specifically around treating mental health and the implications for industry.

Regina Crameri presented the current genomics landscape in Australia, whilst Ajeet Singh talked about the use of genomics to accurately predict the correct mental health treatment.

From 1 December 2021, Australians with a rare and potentially deadly condition, hereditary angioedema, will be able to obtain potentially life changing medication through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Takhzyro® (lanadelumab) is on the PBS for the first time for patients with hereditary angioedema. Hereditary angioedema is a rare, chronic genetic condition occurring in around 1 in 50,000 people. It results from a defect in the gene that controls a blood protein called C1-Inhibitor. This leads to higher levels of a substance called bradykinin in the bloodstream, which causes symptoms such as swelling and pain.

Next Generation Sequencing report: This newly released publication is a snapshot of how genome and genetic sequencing and analysis (Next Generation Sequencing) are relevant to Australia, including: key Australian Government actions; example outcomes for Australia; underpinning sciences; example applications; Australia’s place in the world; and a summary of the opportunities and risks for Australia from the technology.