The Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Center for Precision Genomic Medicine will enable scientists to leverage big data and genomic technologies to improve genetic disease treatment and diagnosis.
In addition, the center will build upon UCLA’s efforts to use large datasets, and innovative technologies, like CRISPR engineering to better understand genetic conditions.
Dr. Daniel Geschwind, the Gordon and Virginia MacDonald distinguished professor of human genetics, senior associate dean and associate vice chancellor of precision health, said, “Launching the Ginsburg Center within the Institute for Precision Health is a milestone in our work to bridge cutting-edge genetic research and direct patient care with individually targeted treatments.
“We have been building toward this moment at UCLA, helping to lead the way in genetic therapies and advancing genetic research and treatments. The extraordinary generosity of the Ginsburgs propels us to a new level of discovery that will benefit patients from all walks of life.”
To better understand genetic factors in disease, The Ginsburg Center will utilise computing power and human genome sequencing, identify genetic risks in populations, and develop gene therapies as well as other innovative and individualised treatment strategies.
The genetic disorders they aim to better understand range from rare diseases to those that are more common. Some examples include, Autism, Parkinsons, cancer, immune disorders, and cardiovascular disease.
UCLA Chancellor, Gene Block, said, “I am so grateful to Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg for their remarkable vision and generosity and for placing their confidence in UCLA’s capacity for innovation.
“Combining our health system’s strengths in biomedical research and clinical care, the Ginsburg Center is sure to benefit patients and their families through life-saving, individualized treatments.”
The UCLA Institute of Precision Health was formed in 2016, and the Ginsburg Center joins other priority programmes organised under the institute’s umbrella.
Find out more about The Dr. Allen and Charlotte Ginsburg Center for Precision Genomic Medicine here.
