NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) — The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research announced today that it has awarded a $1 million grant to the New York Genome Center (NYGC) to investigate cancer genomics in ethnically diverse populations.
The funding will specifically support a project dubbed Polyethnic-1000, which aims to use sequencing and data analysis technologies to develop tools that can help physicians tailor cancer treatments to specific patients, with a focus on ethnic groups currently underrepresented in existing genomic databases. Data collected through the initiative is also expected to yield insights into tumor biology, cancer risk, and response to treatment across genetically diverse patient populations.
Polyethnic-1000 is being led by researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and NYGC affiliates.
"In this study, we are creating a dynamic research platform within the greater New York area that promises to enhance the ways in which cancer is prevented, diagnosed, and treated," Harold Varmus, Weill Cornell Medicine researcher and NYGC member, said in a statement. "Polyethnic-1000 will establish a framework to enhance interactions among our region's cancer treatment centers that should improve and widen the use of genomics for all patients."