University of Antioquia explores genomics

The National Center for Genome Sequencing - CNSG - is located at the University Research Headquarters -SIU-
 

Historically, the University of Antioquia has committed to improve productivity and competitiveness in the country by developing projects in line with Government policies.

University of Antioquia seeks to increase productivity in the field of health by developing technological solutions and qualified training programs.

University Research Headquarters -SIU- and the Office of the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research are currently developing projects aimed at establishing the National Center for Genome Sequencing (CNSG), the first genomics research center in Colombia.

About genomics
CNSG director Juan Fernando Alzate, MSc, Phd, talks about the role of the National Center for Genome Sequencing in the health sector.

Dr. Alzate says that genomics is the simultaneous study of all genes of living organisms. It is like decoding the information of life's molecular system.

Genomics research allows understanding fundamental genetic composition of living beings.

Traditionally, genome studies have been the exclusive domain of large research centers in developed countries and only in recent years Latin America began venturing into this field.

CNSG at University of Antioquia is an important contribution for supply of high-complexity health services given the importance of Medellin as a key city for the health sector.

Having locally genomic sequencing technologies allows offering better health care services.

Thus, bacteria isolated from hospital-acquired infections can be studied in depth through genomics research. This will lead to develop specific diagnostic tests that allow establishing epidemiological control measures for safer postoperative care.

Likewise this allows developing faster procedures in case of epidemics featuring atypical pathogens in order to diagnosing and controlling diseases associated with infectious agents such as viruses or bacteria.

Also in order to develop effective vaccines the CNSG is enabled to monitor infectious agents thus providing essential information that allows predicting vaccine effectiveness. Preliminary studies at CNSG have shown that some pathogens are able to adapt to specific populations.

From an epidemiological view both the advanced technology at the CNSG and the research staff at University of Antioquia are enabled to identify and analyze the evolution of the most prevalent and emerging pathogens.

In short, the history of the University of Antioquia in terms of health research, as well as the experience of both the public and private health sector and cutting-edge research technologies allow the city to provide world-class health care services.