While Sequence Bio awaits the appointment of a new genomics review board and their decision on the company’s Newfoundland and Labrador genome pilot project, the bio-technology firm will have a chance to do much of the same work in New Brunswick.
The New Brunswick was vetted and approved by Veritas Research Ethics Board, a nationally recognized ethics review board of Canadian genomics and ethics experts, and whose principal investigator is Dr. Michael Phillips, Chief Scientific Officer for Sequence.
The project — like it’s Newfoundland and Labrador parallel — aims to explore the genetic makeup of 2,500 study volunteers by studying their DNA in search of better ways to understand, treat and prevent the diseases that affect people in the region the most. It’s happening in partnership with three local doctors in Moncton.
“As this approval confirms, Sequence Bio's research studies are backed by world leading expertise and meet all ethical regulations,” CEO Chris Gardner stated in a press release. “We commend New Brunswick for a timely and collaborative review that supports research.”
The company “will invest several million dollars in this pilot project, hire and growth their team, and provide participants access to a genetic counsellor.”
