Press Release
For the 18th year, the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) is presenting European Researchers' Night, titled "Mission Possible: Researchers on Board for an Inclusive and Sustainable Future." The event will take place on 27/09/2024, from 8:30 to 22:00 at the State Fair (Pavilions A & B) and will be live-streamed on RIF’s social media.
The research team of the biobank.cy Center of Excellence in Biobanking and Biomedical Research (University of Cyprus) will showcase an interactive educational game, "CYPROME: The Genome of Cypriots," at exhibition booth 19.
Through this game, the biobank.cy’s team will be introducing the CYPROME, an ambitious initiative and a pioneering project that aims to set the genetic blueprint and canvas the genetic architecture of the Cypriot population, by mapping unique features in our DNA that could potentially be associated with all sorts of diseases, including cancer. Through this endeavor, biobank.cy Center of Excellence aspires to set new standards in genetics research, disease diagnostics, and public health strategies, and understand how the environment and lifestyle impact DNA expression dynamics.
Essentially, the CYPROME is driving the Cyprus Human Genome Project (CHGP), aiming to fully describe the molecular morbid anatomy of the Cypriot DNA.
By collecting DNA and clinical data from volunteers across the island, spanning a diverse range of lifestyles and health profiles, the CYPROME will serve as a detailed genomic reference baseline to establish diagnostic and prognostic strategies. In its initial phase, the CYPROME focuses on sequencing 1000 exomes (the coding genome) of the aging Cypriot population. As the project advances into Phase II, it aims to expand to 3000 unique Cypriot exomes, each meticulously analyzed to uncover pivotal genetic insights crucial for healthcare innovation. In Phase III, the CYPROME plans to integrate 1500 whole genomes from 500 Cypriot family trios, creating an unparalleled repository of genetic data. Made freely accessible to the global scientific community, this extensive dataset is set to play a fundamental role in shaping Cyprus' national health policy, paving the way for personalized treatments tailored to the distinctive genetic profiles of Cypriots.
Visit our booth and engage with interactive displays showcasing the forefront of genetic research in Cyprus and understand how we enable the mapping of the genetic landscape of Cypriots using cutting-edge molecular biology and genetics technologies. Experience firsthand how CYPROME is revolutionizing genetic medicine by decoding the intricate features found in Cypriot DNA. Learn how this comprehensive genetic database will empower scientists worldwide to develop effective treatments tailored to each patient’s unique genetic profile, from different types of cancer to rare genetic diseases.
*Learn more about the project at www.biobank.cy
