Page 10 - Read Online

Page 4 Chu et al. J Transl Genet Genom 2024;8:49-54 https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/jtgg.2023.47

laboratory has also established a single-cell sequencing platform to integrate multi-omics information to
enhance the characterisation of disease at the cellular and tissue levels and to enable the discovery of
biomarkers for therapeutic targets. These hold the promise of transforming healthcare through precise
diagnosis, targeted treatment, prognostic prediction, and targeted therapeutic development.

(3) Nurturing talents in genomic medicine

Expediting the advancement of genomic medicine and the promotion of precision health in the healthcare
system worldwide cannot be achieved without enlightening work in other disciplinary aspects, like
nurturing talents in genomic medicine by facilitating genomic education for medical professionals.
Maher et al. shared their experience in developing continuing genomics education programs for non-
genetics medical specialists to increase their understanding of genomic medicine and its clinical application
in Australia, providing insights into the place of online learning and workshops as implementation
strategies to translate the use of genomics from research settings to health systems . Additionally, the
[12]
inclusion of non-genetic specialty peer experts in the co-design and delivery of education is highly
recommended to mediate and translate the evidence for the use of genomics in a specialty, to adapt clinical
genetics practice as appropriate to the specialty, and to strengthen cross-specialty relationships to practice
genomic medicine.

(4) Enhancing public engagement and genomic literacy

The promotion of public engagement and genomic literacy is crucial work in support of genomics and
precision health in healthcare service development. Collaboration in research with members of the public
and patients is recognised to be indispensable. Hunter et al. shared five case studies in a variety of clinical
genomic studies in the United Kingdom, highlighting that public and patient involvement has a significant
and beneficial influence on research that addresses sensitive and ethically challenging topics in genomic
service development . Key recommendations in planning, recruitment and involvement are also identified
[13]
to further embed good practices across genomic and other health service research. Sharing the same view
that public support and engagement in promoting genomics and precision health in the healthcare system is
the key to success, especially in the Chinese culture with different socio-cultural views, Chu et al. explored
[14]
the views and concerns of patients and family members participating in the HKGP . A quest for a patient-
oriented, transparent, and decommercialised WGS campaign for the population-based genome project is
highly important to address the challenge of public distrust as a common obstacle to genomic advancement.
Age-specific marketing and publicity strategies are vital for raising public awareness and encouraging public
engagement for genomic initiatives. Genomic literacy through tailoring complex genomic topics to diverse
audiences ranging from the public and patients of different ages to highly educated professionals is a
priority to facilitate the integration of genomic medicine into mainstream healthcare. Insights into the long-
term promotion of public engagement and education can serve as a guiding beacon for international
counterparts in navigating the genomic medicine era.

In conclusion, the publications gathered in this special issue “Genomics & Precision Health” aim to
showcase collaborative efforts in multidisciplinary aspects to promote genomics and precision health.
Implementation of a population-based genome project with advanced sequencing and analysis technology
can bring the era of precision medicine into clinical practice. Equipping healthcare professionals and the
general public for a better understanding of genomics and precision health leads the journey to unlock the
full potential of genomics for personalised and patient-centred care. With strategies to integrate genomic
medicine into clinical care, advance research in genomic science, nurture talents in genomic medicine, and