Building stem-cell genomics in California and beyond

Abstract

proposed that scientists and clinicians engaged in biomedical research, clinical medicine and basic research create a central data base of information, including molecular, environmental, family history and geographical data on individuals in the medical system. Genomic and epigenomic data would be important platforms in such a model. It is our opinion that, to realize its full potential, human stem-cell science should contribute to these activities and intercalate with this proposed knowledge infrastructure by contributing, at a minimum, molecular characterization of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) disease models that can be integrated with longitudinal medical information about the individual who donated the cells. Playing a proactive role in building this knowledge infrastructure will ensure that the needs of all stakeholders in cell therapies are met in the coming decade as medicine transforms to an information-intensive model. For California to take a firm and lasting grip on leadership in stem-cell research—and, as stated in Proposition 71, “advance the biotech industry in California to world leadership as an economic engine for California’s future”— its scientists must have access to these technologies and moreover create a coordinated international enterprise to maximize the reach and impact of stem cell genomics. Genomics is creating a sea change in biomedical research and medicine, and accordingly, the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM; San Francisco) can create a process through which stem-cell research can participate and even provide leadership in a new era of medicine. This research will play a key role in providing cellular assays that can drive the development of new compounds and highly refined biomarkers for drug discovery, diagnostics and ultimately cellular therapeutics in the context of personalized medicine. California is well placed to lead this effort, with its superb and well-funded stemcell science, powerful biocomputing capacities, numerous leading genomics companies and experience in facilitating multinational projects with international funding partners. With judicious expenditure of CIRM funds, it should be possible to use existing resources to rapidly and efficiently build an effective stem-cell genomics infrastructure that will be unique in the world, thus positioning California as a leader in this critical area of basic and translational research while genomic technologies build steam in the next five years.