A state-of-the-art DNA sequencer will empower QUT researchers to investigate everything from improved cancer care to the discovery of new plant and bacterial species.
The PacBio Sequel DNA sequencer, the first of its kind in Queensland, will be housed at QUT’s Central Analytical Research Facility (CARF).
The PacBio Sequel is capable of performing long DNA reads, providing a more thorough picture of an organism’s unique set of genetic information.
Dr Kevin Dudley, who heads up Genomics for CARF, said the PacBio Sequel was the latest technology in a rapidly advancing research area.
“The first human genome, a complete set of a person’s DNA, was fully sequenced in 2003 and it took 13 years and cost US$2.7 billion,” he said.
“Now the process is far quicker and cheaper and sequencing is used to provide valuable insights in a range of research disciplines, from medicine and healthcare to biotechnology and agriculture.
“The PacBio Sequel has unprecedented sequencing power, scanning up to 20,000 DNA bases in a single read, whereas other sequencers scan only a few hundred bases.”
Professor Matt Brown, QUT Director of Genomics, said the sequencer would help power breakthroughs in personalised medicine – tailoring medical treatments to a patient’s genetic profile.
Based at the Translational Research Institute and Princess Alexandra Hospital, Professor Brown leads a personalised medicine centre for cancer patients, a partnership between QUT, Pathology Queensland and the Queensland Government’s Metro South Health (a region that includes the Princess Alexandra, Greenslopes and Logan hospitals).
“Genetically targeted treatments can significantly increase the success and efficacy of chemotherapy and cancer management,” he said.
“Genomic sequencing has revolutionised medical research and the acquisition of the PacBio Sequel proves QUT’s commitment to being a leader in this exciting new frontier.”
Media contact:
Rob Kidd, QUT Media, 07 3138 1841, rj.kidd@qut.edu.au
After hours, Rose Trapnell, 0407 585 901
