Somatic Genomics

The somatic genome encompasses the trillions of different genomes that exist within our cells as a result of somatic mutations. These somatic mutations begin to appear in utero and continue throughout our lives in response to our external and internal environments. By middle age, nearly every possible mutation is present in each organ system. We study these mutations to uncover genes that are causally implicated in the biology of various diseases.

Some somatic mutations make a cell resistant or vulnerable to disease, some cause disease and others have no apparent cellular impact. All of these outcomes can exist within a single organ system. 

Each one of these mutations is akin to a clinical trial at the cellular level to test somatic mutations. With our technology, we assess these mutations in an unbiased manner and uncover disease-causal genes that inform the development of breakthrough medicines.