Normal colon epithelium / Wellcome Sanger Institute

23 Apr 2025

Childhood exposure to bacterial toxin may be triggering colorectal cancer epidemic among the young

New research has found a potential microbial culprit behind the alarming rise in early-onset colorectal cancer
David Levene / Wellcome Sanger Institute

15 Apr 2025

New collaboration to uncover how the hidden language of genes shapes our immune system

A major new initiative, launched today (15 April), will map how gene activity shapes the immune system, and could help identify ...

9 Apr 2025

New research further translates the language of the genome

Research into transcription factors deepen understanding of the ‘language’ of the genome, offering insights into human development.

9 Apr 2025

Rapid growth of blood cancer driven by a single genetic 'hit' 

Researchers have explored the evolution of the genetic change that causes chronic myeloid leukaemia and show its ability to drive the ...

7 Apr 2025

Welcoming our 2025 International Fellows

In 2025 we welcome a new cohort of International Fellows at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
AdobeStock

3 Apr 2025

Precision medicine could be possible in the fight against antibiotic resistance  

Certain antibiotic-resistant infections could be treated with precision medicine in the future, thanks to a new resource mapping plasmids − the ultimate ...

2 Apr 2025

Taking the leap

Making the jump from being a Postdoctoral Fellow or Staff Scientist to leading your own research team can be both exciting and daunting. The opportunities to explore new fields of research are vast, as are the responsibilities of leadership. Find out how Career Development Fellows made the leap – from the Fellows themselves.

1 Apr 2025

Top ten steps to get your genomics data AI-Ready

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to shape the field of genomics, but unprepared data can hamper scientific progress. Digital experts at the Wellcome Sanger Institute are optimising data workflows to fully leverage the power of AI in the Institute’s large-scale sequencing projects.
AdobeStock

31 Mar 2025

Scientists unlock secret behind how smoking and drinking alcohol causes cancer

Scientists have revealed exactly how tobacco smoke damages DNA to drive the development of different types of head and neck cancer, ...

25 Mar 2025

Five questions with... Charlotte Cassie on endometriosis

In recognition of Endometriosis Awareness Month, we caught up with Charlotte Cassie, Postdoctoral Fellow at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, to highlight the gap in endometriosis research and how our work at the Sanger Institute is helping to fill this in.

A. Oliver, et al. Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07571-1

25 Mar 2025

New partnership with UNESCO supports the Human Cell Atlas Project 

A letter of intent co-signed by the Human Cell Atlas and UNESCO notes commitment to open science, capacity building and ethical ...

21 Mar 2025

A global approach to studying health and disease

For 25 years, Nick Thomson has used genomics to unlock the secrets of how infectious diseases spread around the world. We sat down with Nick to discover his plans as the new Head of the Parasites and Microbes programme.
Greg Moss / Wellcome Sanger Institute

19 Mar 2025

Earliest stages and possible new cause of stomach cancer revealed

For the first time, scientists have systematically analysed somatic mutations in stomach lining tissue to unpick mutational processes, some of which ...
S. Birk, I. Bonafonte-Pardàs, A. Miraki Feriz, et al. (2025)

18 Mar 2025

New AI tool visualises a cell’s ‘social network’ to help treat cancer 

An openly available generative AI tool can interpret millions of cells in human tissues in hours, revealing new insights and allowing ...
Liver histology with alpha-1 antitrypsin globules / Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 Mar 2025

'Rescue' mutations protect liver from damage in patients with genetic disorder 

New research shows how mutations acquired throughout life can protect liver cells from damage caused by an inherited genetic condition.
Early Diffuse Alveolar Damage / Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 Mar 2025

Cellular changes as lung damage worsens in COVID-19 revealed 

Researchers uncover cellular changes as damage to alveoli in the lungs progresses during COVID-19.

6 Mar 2025

Sequencing decades-long population data unlocks health insights

For the first time, researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute have sequenced rich genomic data from three birth cohort studies, which could unlock new insights into human health and disease.

AdobeStock

5 Mar 2025

New insights into ageing revealed 

Research has uncovered fundamental differences in how blood stem cells evolve with age in mice compared to humans, reshaping our understanding ...
David Levene / Wellcome Sanger Institute

4 Mar 2025

Largest ever DNA sequencing dataset on UK child development studies available 

For the first time, large-scale DNA sequence data on three UK long-term birth cohorts has been released, creating a unique resource ...
AdobeStock

4 Mar 2025

Translating genetic changes into future health impact

New resource helps bridge the gap between identifying genetic changes linked to health conditions and understanding how these changes impact biological ...
AdobeStock

3 Mar 2025

New tool to map the origins and journeys of cells in development and disease

Cell2fate, a new computational tool, allows researchers to map cellular trajectories in development and disease.

28 Feb 2025

Five questions with... Professor Matt Hurles on rare disease research

In celebration of Rare Disease Day, we caught up with Matt Hurles, Director and Senior Group Leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, to reflect on the importance of raising awareness of rare diseases and how our work at the Institute is supporting this community by accelerating our progress in the genomics space.
Thomas Oliver / Wellcome Sanger Institute

25 Feb 2025

Research challenges our understanding of cancer predisposition

New findings question assumptions of cancer formation in individuals with the cancer-predisposition syndrome, neurofibromatosis type 1, and offer hope for a ...

17 Feb 2025

Syphilis surprises with a worldwide comeback

Syphilis may be known as the ‘forgotten disease’, but in reality, it is making a comeback as cases rise around the world. Researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and their international collaborators in Africa are working to enhance existing syphilis datasets. Diversifying data can help enable the design of novel vaccines as well as detect and track the spread of the bacterium to prevent further transmission.
Greg Moss / Wellcome Sanger Institute

5 Feb 2025

More North-South collaboration will strengthen disease surveillance in the UK, South Africa, and the world

The North-South partnership between the Genomic Surveillance Unit (GSU) at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the Centre for Epidemic Response and ...
AdobeStock

30 Jan 2025

Most engineered human cells created for studying disease

Researchers have engineered and analysed many random versions of human genomes in cell lines to ultimately understand the role of structural ...

27 Jan 2025

Empowering scientists to unite across borders

Global science challenges demand global solutions. Genomic data diversity and international collaboration are critical to this.

AdobeStock

23 Jan 2025

Predicting how childhood kidney cancers develop

Genetically tailored treatment plans for children with a type of kidney cancer could help provide the most effective care while minimising ...
AdobeStock

15 Jan 2025

DNA damage can last unrepaired for years, changing our view of mutations

In a paradigm shift in how we view mutations, researchers uncover forms of DNA damage in healthy cells that can persist ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

13 Jan 2025

Bacterial survival genes uncovered using evolutionary map

The most detailed study to date on the mechanisms by which a common type of bacterium, Staphylococcus aureus, adapts to living ...
Queralt Tolosa/Centro de Regulación Genómica

8 Jan 2025

Human ‘Domainome’ reveals root cause of inherited conditions 

The largest catalogue of human protein variants to date has revealed that protein destabilisation is the main driver of inherited genetic ...

20 Dec 2024

Eight genetic gifts we received this year

What has genetics done for us? Well in 2024, it paved the way for better cancer treatment, supported conservation efforts and mapped the hidden world of connections in our bodies to name but three. So, sit back as we unwrap eight gifts that genetics at the Sanger Institute has provided this year.

18 Dec 2024

How can we enhance biological research with AI?

Advances in AI are rapidly changing biological research, which raises important questions surrounding its responsible use. Here we share insights from a recent conference, funded by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, on explainable AI and how it impacts biology.

12 Dec 2024

What tardigrades teach us about life on the edge

Tardigrades are tiny creatures renowned for their ability to survive extreme conditions. Dr Witold Morek, Postdoc at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, studies tardigrade genomes to unravel their evolution. This work could help enhance scientific understanding of biodiversity and lead to innovations in medicine and biotechnology.
AdobeStock

11 Dec 2024

Newer chemotherapy for Hodgkin Lymphoma has fewer side effects 

A simple change to the chemotherapy regimen for people with Hodgkin lymphoma could reduce the long-term health impacts that can result ...
Luke Lythgoe / Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 Dec 2024

Experts examine DNA changes that shaped life on Earth

Sanger Institute scientists join a new four-year collaborative project that seeks to understand a key process linked to evolution.

10 Dec 2024

How the Sanger Institute and GA4GH are promoting equitable access to data and informed consent in genomics research

Policy Analyst Gemma Brown talks about the role of the Sanger Institute and the Global Alliance for Genomics and Health in ensuring data is shared responsibly and that everyone has equal access to research data. She reflects on the aligned mission of Sanger and the Alliance, the challenges in data sharing and what is being done to overcome them.
AdobeStock

5 Dec 2024

Recommendations to increase access to whole genome sequencing for children with cancer

Experts have published a series of recommendations for improving equity of access to whole-genome sequencing (WGS) for children with cancer across ...
Map of the world showing differences in rates of prostate, colorectal and bladder cancer, alongside carriage rates for two strains of E. coli. Adapted from DOI: 10.1016/j.lanmic.2024.101015

4 Dec 2024

Possible colon cancer vaccine target uncovered in bacteria

Higher rates of certain cancers in countries, such as the UK, may be linked to two particular strains of bacteria. Targeting ...

2 Dec 2024

COP 16: How can all countries benefit from genomic data sharing?

David Nicholson, Sanger Institute Policy and Advocacy Manager, attended this year’s United Nations biodiversity COP 16 conference. He reflects on how the agreed proposals can support equitable global genomics research.

1 Dec 2024

Microbiotica: CASE STUDY

Based originally upon the research of the human microbiome carried out at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Microbiotica was spun out as a microbiome therapeutics company in 2016. Today, Microbiotica is advancing steadily towards introducing transformational microbiome-based therapeutics and biomarkers in areas of high medical need, with first clinical trials – underpinned by a landmark £50m investment during 2022 – starting soon.
A. Chédotal & R. Blain, Institut de la Vision, Paris & MeLiS UCBL HCL, Lyon

20 Nov 2024

Early skeleton map reveals how bones form in humans

Full view of how bones and joints form in the first trimester uncovers cells and pathways that could help diagnose and ...
IBEX image of human thymus. Image credit: Andrea Radtke / NIH.

20 Nov 2024

Human immune system is ‘ready to go’ long before birth

The most comprehensive map of the developing human thymus sheds light on how immune responses are built and maintained at early ...
A. Oliver, et al. Nature (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07571-1

20 Nov 2024

Mapping 1.6 million gut cells to find new ways to treat disease

By combining 25 datasets, researchers have created the largest cohesive cell atlas of the human gut and uncovered a new way ...
AdobeStock

20 Nov 2024

New insights into how common DNA differences contributed to rare neurodevelopmental conditions

Large-scale genetic analysis uncovers new insight into how common DNA differences play a role in the development of rare brain conditions.

12 Nov 2024

Unlocking the genetics of skin cancer

Dr David Adams, Senior Group Leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, is a pioneer in cancer biology and uncovering skin cancer genetics. We explore his 20-year career at Sanger and the global impact of his research.

8 Nov 2024

A melody of bases: How scaling allows us to set new bars

This month we are celebrating a new milestone of sequencing 50 Petabases of DNA. Large-scale sequencing projects have contributed to this achievement, providing us with unprecedented insights into human health and disease.
Original image from Dharmesh Patel

4 Nov 2024

Claire Chewapreecha wins the 2024 Nature inspiring women in science: Scientific Achievement prize

Sanger International Fellow, Dr Claire Chewapreecha, has been awarded this year’s Nature Scientific Achievement Prize 2024. The recognition highlights Claire’ ...

31 Oct 2024

Unpicking the puzzle of plasmids – how bacteria share drug resistance

Arnav Lal is interested in merging clinical practice with infectious disease research. He has recently completed his year-long Master’s in Biological Science through the Churchill Scholarship, provided by the University of Cambridge. For his Master’s he conducted research at the Wellcome Sanger Institute on antimicrobial resistance and used genomics to study how bacteria pass mobile genetic elements around. We caught up with him to talk about his experiences before he moved on to his next step, beginning his studies at Harvard medical school.
Adobe Stock

30 Oct 2024

'Black box' of stem cell transplants opened in world-first blood study

New research into the long-term dynamics of transplanted stem cells in a patient’s body explains how age affects stem cell ...

25 Oct 2024

Creepy creatures reveal DNA secrets

To get into the spirit of the spooky season, read about some curiously creepy creatures whose DNA has been sequenced by researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

24 Oct 2024

AI and genome engineering: new directions in biology

Dr Leopold Parts, Group Leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, studies the effects of DNA mutations by engineering variation in cells. After almost 10 years at Sanger, he has worked across different research areas and experienced significant changes in the field of biology. We spoke with Leo to hear his vision for the role of AI in enhancing gene editing and how it may revolutionise generative and synthetic genomics.
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

23 Oct 2024

Precision drug could target hard-to-treat cancers

By targeting a specific vulnerability in certain types of cancer cells, a newly created inhibitor may offer an alternative treatment for ...

22 Oct 2024

Sanger Prize: The power of persistence

Meet the next generation of genomic scientists who are benefiting from the Sanger Prize. Damilola Gbore won the Prize in 2023, after first applying in 2020. He joined the Parasites and Microbes Programme to work alongside Ewan Harrison’s research group. During his three-month placement, he analysed virus sequencing data, learning the techniques that researchers can use to diagnose and track viruses in humans.
M.Coehlo, et al. (2023)

18 Oct 2024

Cancer drug resistance causes and categories identified  

Researchers have mapped the genetic landscape of cancer drug resistance, uncovering that DNA changes can be grouped into four main categories ...

18 Oct 2024

R&D vital to achieving the Government’s economic ambitions, say sector leaders

The Campaign for Science and Engineering (CaSE) and other leading organisations, including the Wellcome Sanger Institute, in the R&D sector ...

17 Oct 2024

AI and the future of generative biology

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming biology by enabling researchers to build predictive models from vast biological datasets. Wellcome Sanger Institute researchers are leveraging AI tools to predict, design, and engineer biological sequences, such as DNA and proteins.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

16 Oct 2024

Human skin map gives 'recipe' to build skin and could help prevent scarring

Prenatal human skin atlas and organoid will accelerate research into congenital diseases and lead to clinical applications for regenerative medicine.
Photos courtesy of Lisa Hawker

15 Oct 2024

Large-scale study of children with genetic disorders finds huge benefit of diagnosis

Genetic results from the Deciphering Developmental Disorders (DDD) study have enabled thousands of children with severe developmental disorders to receive better ...
Onur Pinar / Wellcome Sanger Institute

15 Oct 2024

Professor Nick Thomson appointed Head of the Parasites and Microbes Programme 

As Head of Programme, Professor Nick Thomson sets out his vision of international collaboration and ecosystem genomics

14 Oct 2024

Drawing out the beauty of UK invertebrates for #Invertober

Artist and Tree of Life genome scientist Petra Korlević is celebrating the charm and wonder of invertebrates this October. Find out why Petra is capturing the secret world of moths, bees, beetles and anemones living across the British Isle and discover how you can develop your artistic skills.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 Oct 2024

Protein behaviour can be predicted with simple maths

There are more variations of a small protein than there are atoms in the entire universe. Despite the vast possibilities, new ...

9 Oct 2024

The architecture of disease

Our photo essay features some of the people behind the cutting-edge cancer research at the Sanger Institute. With genomic techniques now able to uncover the DNA sequence and structure in millions individual cells, they are uncovering the genetic architecture of disease.

7 Oct 2024

Diving into how DNA shards spread antimicrobial resistance

Sanger Excellence Fellow Onalenna Neo is combining wet laboratory work with bioinformatics to investigate how drug resistance spreads through bacteria.

2 Oct 2024

Coral genomes to combat bleaching

Corals are bleaching at unprecedented rates due to human-induced climate change. Researchers studying the DNA of corals and the algae they live in symbiosis with aim to better understand how to protect them.

26 Sep 2024

Predicting cell responses to disease and drugs with AI

Mo Lotfollahi joined the Wellcome Sanger Institute in April as a new Group Leader in the Cellular Genetics programme. Mo works with wet lab scientists and bioinformaticians to develop generative AI models for predicting cellular responses.
AdobeStock

23 Sep 2024

Most new recessive developmental disorder diagnoses lie within known genes

Researchers assessed the role of recessive genetic variants in developmental disorders, suggesting reanalysis of genetic data could improve understanding and diagnosis ...
Andreas Weith, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

20 Sep 2024

Pan-European project generates genomes showcasing continent's rich biodiversity

Sanger scientists join international collaborators to generate reference genomes for European species.
AdobeStock

18 Sep 2024

Breast and ovarian cancer newly linked to thousands of gene variants

New research identifies specific genetic changes that can increase a person’s risk of breast and ovarian cancers, to help guide ...

13 Sep 2024

The DNA sequence of a wood-munching marauder

Tapping out the DNA code of the Deathwatch Beetle gives hope to future conservation research into battling this wood-munching marauder.
Adobe Stock

11 Sep 2024

New genetic links between menopause and cancer risk

Researchers have found multiple genes linked to the timing of menopause and provide new insight into links with cancer risk.
AdobeStock

9 Sep 2024

Common diabetes drug slows growth of normal cells carrying cancer mutation

Our tissues are colonised by mutant cells as we age. New research finds metabolic health and antidiabetic drugs affect the growth ...
Dave Goulding / Wellcome Sanger Institute

6 Sep 2024

Natural probiotic discovered in UK newborns' microbiomes

In the largest genomic analysis of UK infant microbiomes to date, researchers have uncovered a type of bacterium that helps digest ...

6 Sep 2024

Personalising cancer treatment using the gut microbiome

Did you know that your gut bugs may affect your cancer risk? Dr Ashray Gunjur, Clinical Research Training Fellow at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, is exploring how clinicians can use the biology of the gut microbiome to personalise cancer treatment.

2 Sep 2024

Join us for the Explainable AI in Biology Conference

Science and AI fans, get ready for October 2024 – the Wellcome Sanger Institute is hosting the first-ever Explainable AI in Biology Conference at the Wellcome Genome Campus. Here we review a snapshot of some of the planned talks from AI experts about integrating AI into biological research.
Cecilia Icoresi Mazzeo / Wellcome Sanger Institute

28 Aug 2024

Human endometrial map uncovers hidden health clues

The inner lining of the uterus has been mapped during multiple phases of the menstrual cycle, starting to shed new light ...

28 Aug 2024

Royal Society awards two Sanger scientists

Congratulations to Professor Sir Mike Stratton and Professor Sam Behjati, who have been recognised by the Royal Society for their outstanding ...
AdobeStock

21 Aug 2024

Hospital bacteria tracked better than ever before with new technique

New method provides high-resolution surveillance data about multiple common antibiotic-resistant bacteria at once and could help prevent the spread of infections.

20 Aug 2024

Tackling power imbalances in genomics research

Embedding ethics into research enables scientists to maximise the societal benefit of their work. It is also an important tool for accountability, especially in genomics research. For instance, how are the data gathered going to serve the communities that have donated the data to research?

8 Aug 2024

Families and scientists unite to drive forward rhabdomyosarcoma research

Scientists and parents involved with a pioneering childhood cancer charity recently came together to discuss the future of research into the childhood cancer rhabdomyosarcoma, from its genetic causes to treatment innovations. A promising new project - co-designed by researchers and families - will now mine hundreds of biobank samples to understand the genomic and demographic factors governing how a child responds to treatment.

5 Aug 2024

New collaboration will uncover mutations in rare immune disorder

Tracing early mutations in blood stem cells could shed light on the development and progression of an immune cell disorder mainly ...

2 Aug 2024

Celebrating COSMIC and 20 years of enhancing cancer research

In 2024, COSMIC – the world’s largest and most comprehensive resource on genetic mutations in cancer – celebrates two exciting milestones: COSMIC reaches its 20th anniversary and releases its 100th version of the database.
AdobeStock

24 Jul 2024

'Gene misbehaviour' widespread in healthy population

New insights into the prevalence and mechanisms of gene misexpression in a healthy population could help in diagnosing and developing treatments ...

17 Jul 2024

Stephen Bentley: bacterial genomics and pathogen surveillance

Dedicating his career to decoding the genomics of disease-causing bacteria, Stephen Bentley has innovatively applied emerging technologies.
AdobeStock

15 Jul 2024

Thousands of high-risk cancer gene variants identified

Researchers have mapped the exact variants in a gene that dramatically increase a person’s risk of developing several types of ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

9 Jul 2024

Sanger scientists recognised by EMBO

Researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute have been elected as EMBO Members to honour their contributions to cancer genetics, computational biology ...
David Gregory, Debbie Marshall / Wellcome Images

4 Jul 2024

Western superbugs do not dominate in Pakistan    

The first in-depth genomic surveillance of E. coli in the Punjab region of Pakistan has revealed surprising differences in the bacterial ...
AdobeStock

3 Jul 2024

Mobile phone data helps track pathogen spread and evolution of superbugs

Combining genomic data and human travel patterns over a 14-year period in South Africa reveals key insights into the spread, evolution ...

3 Jul 2024

One (cell) to rule them all

The HipSci cell lines, now searchable in a newer, user-friendly platform, are a resource used worldwide by researchers. They can be used for a wide variety of research applications, including large-scale experiments that require multiple cell lines created in a standardised manner.
Eddie's family

2 Jul 2024

Cutting-edge genomic test can improve care of children with cancer 

A genetic test offered by NHS England improved clinical care of children with cancer, and should be provided to all, researchers ...

28 Jun 2024

Hacking AI for genomics

The Wellcome Sanger Institute recently hosted its first three-day community AI hackathon, bringing together 25 researchers across the Wellcome Genome Campus.

25 Jun 2024

Group leader one positions extended to enable long-term impact and scale of science

The Wellcome Sanger Institute has extended early career faculty positions from six to eight years, to fulfil the science at scale happening at the Institute.
Imperial College London

19 Jun 2024

Immune response study explains why some people don't get COVID-19

Using single-cell sequencing technology, researchers provide the most comprehensive timeline to date of how the body responds to SARS-CoV-2 exposure.

19 Jun 2024

Mapping malaria genomes in West Africa and beyond

Professor Alfred Amambua-Ngwa is dedicated to understanding and combatting malaria using genomics. In this interview, Alfred shares his journey over the last two decades, highlighting key milestones and ongoing efforts driving the fight against malaria in Africa.
AdobeStock

18 Jun 2024

Sepsis patients could get the right treatment faster, based on their genes

New study into the molecular pathways involved in sepsis is one step closer to rapid and targeted treatment of patients.
AdobeStock

14 Jun 2024

Ancient DNA will offer clues for climate-resilient crops

Understanding how ecosystems have adapted to historical climate shifts over millions of years could help breed crops capable of withstanding future ...

14 Jun 2024

Revealing the genetics of the immune system and pregnancy

Emma Davenport explains how her career has evolved from genetics to computational biology and shares her experience as a female faculty member at the Sanger Institute.

11 Jun 2024

Sanger's startup school envigorates future entrepreneurs

The fourth edition of Sanger’s Startup School closed with 30 participants from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and EMBL-EBI having gained the confidence to look at science with a different, entrepreneurial perspective.

24 May 2024

Genetic cause of rare childhood immune disorders discovered

Researchers have identified the genetic basis behind certain severe immunodeficiencies in newborns, paving the way for potential screening and emerging therapies

21 May 2024

International Fellows meet

The Sanger Institute’s current International Fellows all met for the first time to discuss their research and share their latest work on genomics and global health.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

21 May 2024

Largest genomic cancer resource accelerating research and drug development 

COSMIC has released the 100th version of its knowledgebase, containing further information on 300,000 somatic mutations linked to human cancers.
AdobeStock

17 May 2024

Ambitious inflammatory bowel disease study aims to uncover disease biomarkers for personalised medicine

A unique study into IBD will bring together genomics and immunology experts, gastroenterologists, and patients from across the UK to identify ...
Wilson lab / Ana Faro and Tom Hawkins

16 May 2024

Key protein behind brain asymmetry uncovered

Genetic mechanisms behind the brain's unique left-right differences are now better understood with new research, paving the way for better ...
AdobeStock

14 May 2024

Genes driving age-related blood cell mutations uncovered

New research identifies a larger pool of genes involved in clonal haematopoiesis than previously thought, and their implications for disease and ...
AdobeStock

9 May 2024

Wellcome Sanger Institute awards Translation Fund to three promising projects 

The projects have been selected for their potential to extend the impact of Sanger research towards human and planetary health.

5 May 2024

The secret lives of nematodes

C. elegans, a workhorse of modern biology, was the first multicellular organism to have its DNA code sequenced in 1998. But it is just one of potentially millions of nematode species. We explore the latest work to sequence the genomes of hundreds of nematodes and put C. elegans in its evolutionary context.
Elias Rafael Ruiz-Morales / Wellcome Sanger Institute

3 May 2024

Source of pregnancy complications from infections revealed by placenta map 

The placenta’s response to infections from malaria, toxoplasmosis and listeria has been mapped in high resolution for the first time, ...
Sunil Dogga / Wellcome Sanger Institute

2 May 2024

Deeper understanding of malaria parasite sexual development unlocks opportunities to block disease spread

Natural malaria infections have been genetically analysed at a higher resolution than ever before, giving insights that could help understand and ...

1 May 2024

Giving science a new skin

Lab-grown organoids that mimic human skin are enabling new research into development and disease. Dr April Rose Foster sat down with us to talk about working with the cells and her hopes for the future of research into skin disease.
AdobeStock

1 May 2024

Mystery risk factor linked to high rates of kidney cancer, major DNA study finds

Researchers analysing the DNA of people with kidney cancer worldwide have found evidence of an unknown trigger that could explain the ...

25 Apr 2024

Five malaria challenges where genomic surveillance can make a difference

This World Malaria Day, we take a look at five challenges we are helping to tackle with genomic surveillance, by constantly monitoring how these deadly parasites – and the mosquitoes that spread them – mutate and evolve across the world and over time.
Greg Moss / Wellcome Sanger Institute

25 Apr 2024

Wellcome sets environmental sustainability standards for researchers, as wider goals to support the UK research sector are launched

Sanger Institute signs concordat to reduce the environmental impacts of carrying out research.
AdobeStock

24 Apr 2024

Researchers aim to analyse pangenomes using quantum computing

Project unites world-leading experts in quantum computing and genomics to develop new methods and algorithms to process biological data.

19 Apr 2024

A Day in the Life: Informaticians bridging tech and genomics

Tech Talent Scheme winner, Ene Göktan, shares her experiences and offers some tips for aspiring informaticians

16 Apr 2024

Ambitious goals in autoimmune research

Sanger Excellence Fellow Dr Samantha Jumbe aims to understand the role of genetic mutations in autoimmune conditions like lupus, psoriasis and systemic liver disease.

15 Apr 2024

Human muscle map reveals how we try to fight effects of ageing

The first comprehensive cell atlas of ageing human muscle reveals the intricate genetic and cellular processes behind muscle deterioration and mechanisms ...
UCL. Description: Nasal culture from an older adult, revealing a distinct spiral-like pattern that was absent in cultures grown from children.

15 Apr 2024

Specific nasal cells protect against COVID-19 in children

Important differences in how the nasal cells of young and elderly people respond to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, could explain why children ...

11 Apr 2024

Unravelling how parasitic worms respond to drug treatment

Parasitic worms transmitted through the soil infect an estimated 1.5 billion people worldwide and cause diseases that help drive poverty in tropical and subtropical countries. Wellcome Sanger Institute researchers, as part of the STOP2030 project, are using their unique genetics expertise to monitor the effects of promising new treatments to help combat these diseases.
Greg Moss / Wellcome Sanger Institute

27 Mar 2024

Single genomic test promises accelerated diagnoses for rare genetic diseases

A new approach to analysing exome sequencing data reliably detects large-scale genetic changes and could reduce the number of genetic tests ...

21 Mar 2024

Studying cancer and pre-cancer in Latin America

New research is focussing on understanding the genetic causes of acral melanoma - an understudied disease that is the most common type of melanoma in Mexico. 

18 Mar 2024

Digital transformation and a new era in science

Digital technologies are rapidly evolving. James McCafferty, Chief Information Officer at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, discusses the latest opportunities and challenges for research, including generative AI and enhanced data science.

14 Mar 2024

Hope for tackling deadly bacterial disease

The fight against melioidosis - a neglected, often fatal, bacterial disease.
AdobeStock

14 Mar 2024

Lives could be saved from tropical disease with new rapid test

A new test diagnoses patients with melioidosis within hours, rather than days, meaning they can receive the correct antibiotics faster
Petra Korlević / Wellcome Sanger Institute

8 Mar 2024

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion champions receive Best Practice Awards

The Wellcome Genome Campus holds its annual awards for Best Practice in supporting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in science, in celebration ...

8 Mar 2024

Inspiring Inclusion on International Women’s Day

To celebrate International Women's Day, colleagues at the Sanger Institute talk about their journey, what inspires them, and why inclusion is important.

6 Mar 2024

Faster, effective and safer gene engineering

Meet Valentina Migliori, a researcher working to make lab science more relevant to clinical research.

6 Mar 2024

Wellcome Sanger Institute appoints Excellence Fellows from Black heritage backgrounds  

The 2023/2024 Sanger Excellence Postdoctoral Fellows are now in place at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
icddr,b

4 Mar 2024

Climate change impacts on gut microbiome explored in new study

A new study aims to investigate the role of rising sea levels and salinated drinking water on the gut microbiome and ...
Dave Goulding / Wellcome Sanger Institute

1 Mar 2024

New microbiome insights could help boost immunotherapy for a range of rare cancers

The microbiome can identify those who benefit from combination immunotherapy across multiple different cancers, including rare gynaecological cancers, biliary tract cancers ...

29 Feb 2024

Genomics gets faster, cheaper, and more accurate

Four new platforms have been added to one of the world’s largest genome sequencing facilities at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. increasing the speed, capacity and precision of DNA and RNA sequencing.

27 Feb 2024

Meet Professor Tulio de Oliveira, forging a genomic surveillance partnership

As head of the largest genomics institute in Africa and the Genomic Surveillance Unit’s new deputy director, Professor Tulio de Oliveira hopes close collaboration can be “world changing.”
Greg Moss / Wellcome Sanger Institute

26 Feb 2024

New screening tool to explore mechanisms behind cancer, autoimmunity and neurodegeneration

Mechanisms driving diseases such as cancer, autoimmunity, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's could be uncovered using a new integrated single-cell approach ...
Sam Ebdon / Wellcome Sanger Institute

21 Feb 2024

Butterfly and moth genomes mostly unchanged despite 250 million years of evolution

Comparison of over 200 high-quality butterfly and moth genomes reveals key insights into their biology, evolution and diversification over the last ...

15 Feb 2024

From bench to bedside - Innovating blood cancer clinical practice

We spoke to Jyoti Nangalia, a researcher at the forefront of innovation in blood cancers. She is combining her clinical and academic expertise to bring better diagnosis tools for patients and clinicians.
Fengtang Yang / Wellcome Sanger Institute

14 Feb 2024

Key genes linked to DNA damage and human disease uncovered

Scientists unveil 145 genes vital for genome health, and possible strategies to curb progression of human genomic disorders

6 Feb 2024

Tackling trypanosomiasis in cattle in sub-Saharan Africa

Three vaccine targets discovered by the Wellcome Sanger Institute focus on targeting animal trypanosomiasis in an effort to find a cure for a disease that causes billions in economic losses in one of the poorest regions on earth. These losses fall heavily on small holders, who are often heavily dependent on livestock for their livelihood.

29 Jan 2024

2024 Winners: Accelerator Awards for Postdocs

Meet the four winners of our Sanger Accelerator Awards for Postdocs (SAAPs) to accelerate postdocs along their career trajectory
Luke Lythgoe, Genomic Surveillance Unit, Wellcome Sanger Institute

25 Jan 2024

Leading UK and South African genomics labs unite to take disease surveillance beyond COVID

Building on genomic surveillance success during the pandemic, this close collaboration will track more pathogens in more places

18 Jan 2024

Hacking for the single-cell universe

A recent hackathon, hosted by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, brought together software developers and computational biologists working on tools to analyse data from single cells.
AdobeStock

17 Jan 2024

Role of inherited genetic variants in rare blood cancer uncovered

Combining three different sources of genetic information has allowed researchers to further understand why only some people with a common mutation ...

16 Jan 2024

Nine billion and counting - Mapping the human variants and their effects on health and disease

The Atlas of Variant Effects Alliance celebrates its fourth year this month.  A collaboration of multiple institutes, including the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the Alliance has the aim of assessing the effects of all variants in our genomes. In this blog, we highlight the Alliance’s achievements and the diverse community underpinning such a colossal effort.
AdobeStock

11 Jan 2024

Antibiotic use is not the only driver of superbugs

Researchers have analysed the rise of antibiotic resistance over the last 20 years in the UK and Norway, highlighting that antibiotic ...

11 Jan 2024

Cancer drug discovery accelerated as hundreds of overlooked targets prioritised 

The second generation of the Cancer Dependency Map uncovers 370 priority drug targets, with strong links to specific cancer types.
Wellcome Sanger Institute and AdobeStock

21 Dec 2023

New methodology unifies single-cell data

CellHint can unify different single-cell data, creating harmonised, applicable datasets for the study of human health and disease.

19 Dec 2023

Festive traditions from around the world

We are lucky enough to have many talented staff from all around the world working at the Sanger Institute, and this year we asked them about how they spend the upcoming winter break. Find out more about goes on throughout the globe in the month of December.
Fvasconcellos, Wikimedia Commons, Weng, Faure and Escobedo/Centro de Regulación Genómica, and Thomas Splettstoesser (www.scistyle.com)

18 Dec 2023

Secret vulnerabilities of cancer's 'Death Star' revealed

KRAS is one of the most frequently mutated genes in cancer. Researchers expose its secret vulnerabilities, laying out a fresh blueprint ...
Jo Barnes / UCL

15 Dec 2023

Immune cells shape lung before birth and offer potential new avenues for treating respiratory diseases

Researchers reveal that healthy lung development hinges on immune-epithelial crosstalk, with implications for respiratory diseases.

13 Dec 2023

Unlocking Lupus

Haerin Jang is analysing genetic data from lupus patients to understand why there are such big differences between people are affected by the disease.

7 Dec 2023

Applying genomics is key to a dynamic life science ecosystem in the UK, the Genomics Nation 2023 report shows

This year’s report confirms the UK genomics sector as a global leader. It showcases where the use of genomic technologies ...
Alain Chédotal and Raphaël Blain, Inserm

6 Dec 2023

First spatial map of human limb development reveals unexpected growth processes and explains syndromes found at birth 

Scientists reveal unprecedented insights into human limb development, including the many intricate processes that govern their formation.
AdobeStock and Wellcome Sanger Institute

6 Dec 2023

Map of disease-causing mutations in neurodevelopmental disorders and cancer revealed

Researchers now understand the functional impact of thousands of genetic changes within the DDX3X gene. This could lead to enhanced diagnosis ...

5 Dec 2023

From micron to metre: crossing scales in the human body

Scientists progress towards mapping and modelling a complex, dynamic and ‘multiscale’ system: the human body.

30 Nov 2023

LGBTQIA+ people in STEM 2023

International Day of LGBTQIA+ People in STEM celebrates the work of LGBTQIA+ people in science, technology, engineering, and maths.
Greg Moss / Wellcome Sanger Institute

30 Nov 2023

World’s largest genetic project opens the door to new era for treatments and cures: UK Biobank’s major milestone

The Wellcome Sanger Institute sequenced its share of 500,000 whole human genomes, contributing to the world’s largest single set ...

27 Nov 2023

Pocket-sized DNA sequencers track malaria drug resistance in near real-time

A team of scientists working in Ghana have pioneered on-site genomic surveillance to track changes in the malaria parasite, achieving sampling ...

23 Nov 2023

Racism, medicine and why we need to decolonise healthcare

In October, Dr Annabel Sowemimo joined us on the Wellcome Genome Campus to speak about her work exploring the ways that racism and colonial thinking are embedded within medicine, science and institutions – and the difficulties of untangling it.

21 Nov 2023

From somatic mutations to Quotient

We spoke to Dr Iñigo Martincorena, group leader at the Wellcome Sanger Institute and academic co-founder of Quotient Therapeutics. Quotient is a new company leveraging Sanger Institute research to innovate the way drugs are discovered.

21 Nov 2023

Sanger's research leveraged by a new company, Quotient Therapeutics, to create transformative medicines

Quotient’s Somatic Genomics platform reveals new approaches to treating disease based on the vast genetic variation present in the body’ ...
AdobeStock

16 Nov 2023

New research sheds light on cancer risk in gene therapies

Scientists have discovered that “cell competition” following gene therapy may influence blood cancer risk, such as leukaemia.

13 Nov 2023

Entrepreneurship at Sanger - pipetting, coding and innovating in genomics and biodata

To celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week, Dr Joanna Mills tells us what Entrepreneurship looks like at the Sanger Institute.

Onur Pinar / Wellcome Sanger Institute

1 Nov 2023

Sam Behjati recognised for advancing knowledge of childhood cancers

Professor Behjati, a paediatrician scientist, has been awarded the 2023 Foulkes Foundation Academy of Medical Sciences Medal in recognition of his ...

31 Oct 2023

The dark matter of microbiology

Studying the Treponema pallidum bacterium that causes syphilis.

27 Oct 2023

Black History Month - 2023

To celebrate Black History Month 2023, we are highlighting some of the incredible Black women on campus. These women, Martha Mulongo, Rachel Ogidan, and Alice Matimba, all have crucial roles in progressing the scientific research that takes place at the Wellcome Genome Campus.
AdobeStock

26 Oct 2023

Psoriasis not caused by spontaneous mutations in skin cells

Genetic analysis of psoriasis shows somatic mutations are not linked to the development or the spread of the condition.

25 Oct 2023

Bacteria and Benachin

Dr Oumie Kuyateh is investigating how to use the microbiome to improve the diagnosis of respiratory diseases in Africa. We spoke about science, Sanger, and time travel.

20 Oct 2023

I'm a biologist 2023

Staff in the Cellular Genetics Programme tell us about their roles, from computational genomics, to laboratory management to working with stem cells to understand development.

17 Oct 2023

Correlation is not causation

Meet Dr. Laura Fachal, working on the genetics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Laura told us about her work, being a woman in science, and the researchers who have inspired her.
Jessica Calland and Atanyiwoen Brusah

16 Oct 2023

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria mapped in Ghana 

The first genomic surveillance of Klebsiella bacteria in Ghana has shown that heavily antibiotic-resistant pathogens are only found in hospital settings, ...

11 Oct 2023

Trailblazing Genomics

As a top UK innovator, the Sanger Institute’s work is foundational to many. We enable partners to apply our science and advance it to develop products, services and therapeutics - solving real-world problems

10 Oct 2023

From single cells to systemic change: shining a light on poorly understood aspects of women’s health

Dr Roser Vento-Tormo speaks to us about the lack of women's health research, how she is filling this gap with new genomics methods and organoids, and her recent Emerging Talent Award from the Society of Spanish Researchers in the UK.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

5 Oct 2023

Predicting and engineering biology in new research programme

The Wellcome Sanger Institute launches a new research programme that will combine large-scale genomic data generation with machine learning to predict ...

4 Oct 2023

30 impacts for 30 years

We highlight some of our impacts - from sequencing the human genome, to enabling the diagnosis of rare disease patients around the world.

Alicia L. Bruzos

2 Oct 2023

Contagious cancers in cockles sequenced, showing unexpected instability

The genomes of transmissible shellfish cancers have been sequenced for the first time, revealing levels of genomic instability not seen in ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

2 Oct 2023

Inigo Martincorena receives Dr Josef Steiner Cancer Research Award 2023   

Dr Inigo Martincorena has been awarded the Dr Josef Steiner Cancer Research Award 2023 for his research into the development of ...

2 Oct 2023

Why do some animals catch cancer?

Unravelling the genomics of infectious cancer
Julia Butler - CC BY 3.0 - via Wikimedia Commons

28 Sep 2023

Explosion in fish biodiversity due to genetic recycling

The rapid formation of 500 different species of fish in a single lake, each with specialised ecological roles, resulted from a ...
Vibrio cholerae bacteria. Dave Goulding / Wellcome Sanger Institute

28 Sep 2023

Genes fuelling antibiotic resistance in Yemen cholera outbreak uncovered

Widespread antibiotic resistance among cholera-causing bacteria causing the outbreak in Yemen since 2018 explained by gene mixing.

28 Sep 2023

Meet Professor Saheer Gharbia, the new Chief Scientific Officer at the Genomic Surveillance Unit

A determined leader in public health, Saheer is used to making the “impossible” not only possible, but routine.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

28 Sep 2023

The Genomic Surveillance Unit welcomes Professor Saheer Gharbia as Chief Scientific Officer 

A dynamic and experienced leader in public health genomics, Professor Gharbia will shape the scientific vision of the Wellcome Sanger Institute’ ...
AdobeStock

26 Sep 2023

Impact of parental relatedness on Type 2 diabetes and other common diseases uncovered

The risk of developing several complex genetic diseases may be increased by the level of genetic relatedness in individuals, scientists uncover ...
Science 2023 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41118-8

25 Sep 2023

Genetic code of rare kidney cancer cracked

New study reveals drivers of rare cancer and provides a possible alternative solution to surgery.

25 Sep 2023

One childhood cancer, one thousand children: landmark genomic study delivers first discoveries

Tumours from 1000 children with kidney cancer have been sequenced, thanks to the Little Princess Trust and researchers at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. The Little Princess Trust ‘Knowledge Bank’ is the largest comprehensive genomics resource for any childhood solid tumour, and is already being used for research to understand childhood cancers.

21 Sep 2023

Pine Hoverfly is back from the brink with the help of new genomes

With adult Pine Hoverflies seen in Scotland for the first time in many years, top-quality genome sequences are now helping make a permanent success of saving arguably Britain’s most endangered insect.
AdobeStock

15 Sep 2023

Syphilis transmission networks and antimicrobial resistance in England uncovered using genomics

Scientists use genomics to uncover syphilis transmission patterns in England, in a pioneering new approach for STI surveillance

14 Sep 2023

1,000 species get their genomes sequenced for the first time

A thousand reference genomes of the highest quality have now been produced for diverse eukaryotic species across the tree of life.
Dan Ross / Wellcome Sanger Institute

14 Sep 2023

SIREN study expands surveillance of respiratory pathogens ahead of winter

The Wellcome Sanger Institute will sequence samples provided by UKHSA and use metagenomics to investigate pathogens that cause respiratory infection

12 Sep 2023

Mosaic’s becoming

The Sanger Institute is committed to innovative science at scale, but we need partners and investors to transfer this science into the clinic. Mariya Chhatriwala, Business Development Manager, gives us her insights on how the Sanger Institute’s fifth spin-out company came to be.
Onur Pinar / Wellcome Sanger Institute and The Royal Society

30 Aug 2023

Peter Campbell honoured with Darwin Medal by the Royal Society

The award, created in memory of Charles Darwin, recognises Dr Campbell’s outstanding achievements and dedication to advancing knowledge and understanding ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

30 Aug 2023

Richard Durbin recognised for his contribution to the biology of genomes

Professor Durbin has been awarded the 39th International Prize for Biology in recognition of his pioneering work to develop and openly ...
AdobeStock

28 Aug 2023

Key human bladder cancer genes pinpointed in cats and dogs

Scientists identify common genes responsible for spontaneous cancer in cats and dogs that could spur on targeted therapies for humans
AdobeStock

23 Aug 2023

Diversity of human Y chromosome revealed

Researchers assemble the full Y chromosome across multiple individuals for the first time, revealing unexpected diversity, with clues for its role ...

17 Aug 2023

A beginner’s guide to mosquito identification

Use this simple guide to tell your mosquitoes apart this World Mosquito Day
Megumi Inoue, Institut de la Vision

17 Aug 2023

Multiple organ functions of the yolk sac revealed by early human development map

A study describes organ function crossover in the human yolk sac and presents a new rapid pathway for immune cell differentiation.

10 Aug 2023

What is a gene?

A gene is a string of DNA letters that encode a protein - the building blocks of our cells and bodies. One gene encodes one protein. Simple, right? But scratch the surface into the molecular details and it soon gets complicated. Ongoing research, including work by scientists at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, is unpacking some of this complexity across diverse organisms - and viruses - and helping to reshape what we mean by a “gene”.

7 Aug 2023

Building an atlas of gene variants to understand health and disease

Mutational scanning technologies are revolutionising the way we understand human genetic variation. A symposium in July brought together researchers from over 50 countries to explore the possibilities of this incipient genomic method, and how it can benefit clinicians and patients.

3 Aug 2023

New Tree of Sex project collects all the wild ways nature reproduces

From sex-changing fish to asexual lizards, these and many more species will be captured in a new sex database made possible by the Wellcome Sanger Institute’s powerful genomic resources.
AdobeStock and DOI:10.1038/s41588-023-01468-x

3 Aug 2023

Skin cancer-related mutations higher in the UK than Singapore

Scientists have discovered differences in the skin’s ability to protect itself from ultraviolet (UV) light as we age between UK ...
AdobeStock

1 Aug 2023

New project to understand the relationship between the microbiome and mental health gets underway

A pioneering longitudinal study aims to revolutionise our understanding of how the gut microbiome in early childhood impacts mental health later ...
AdobeStock

28 Jul 2023

New insights into the evolutionary history of gorillas

Gorilla genomes reveal remnants of a mysterious, extinct population, as scientists unravel the evolutionary history of our closely related species

26 Jul 2023

Bonailie n farewell to the Berriman group

Nearly twenty three years after first joining the Wellcome Sanger Institute, at the end of July Dr Matt Berriman will complete the move of his research to the University of Glasgow, where he is now Professor of Parasitology.

26 Jul 2023

Lee group complete move to Dundee

At the end of July 2023, Dr Marcus Lee and his research group will finalise the move of their Malaria Parasite Drug Resistance programme to the University of Dundee, where he is now Professor of Parasite Molecular Genetics.
Onur Pinar / Wellcome Sanger Institute

26 Jul 2023

Sanger Institute awarded UK Science Council Employer Champion status

The award recognises the work that the Sanger Institute dedicates to the quality and practice of science through the professional development ...

19 Jul 2023

Inspiring tomorrow’s scientists by battling with pipettes

Laura Durrant shares her experience working at the Science Museum, running workshops to demystify life in the lab.
icddr,b

18 Jul 2023

New cholera substrains in Bangladesh uncovered by genomic surveillance confirm the importance of vaccination

A new study has analysed and tracked the spread of this bacterial disease within a vulnerable community, highlighting the importance of ...

17 Jul 2023

Prime Editing

Prime editing is the latest technique that enables scientists to alter the DNA of a living cell. It builds on CRISPR-Cas9 technology, and offers the potential to edit human cells to treat genetic diseases.

12 Jul 2023

Behind the Heart Cell Atlas

Histologists, cardiologists, immunologists, cell biologists, software developers, bioinformaticians and specialist technicians have worked together to see individual cells in unprecedented detail. Using spatial genomics, they located each cell to its precise location in the heart.
Sinoatrial node of human heart. Wellcome Sanger Institute

12 Jul 2023

Detailed map of the heart provides new insights into cardiac health and disease

The study also presents a new tool that uncovers the effects of drugs on heart rate
Adapted from NIAID image

6 Jul 2023

Unlocking the mystery of long-lasting cancer treatment

New insights have been revealed today that explain why some children have a longer remission than others after having cutting-edge CAR ...

5 Jul 2023

Dr David Hulcoop appointed as Open Targets Director

Open Targets is an innovative public-private partnership that uses human genetics and genomics data to systematically identify and prioritise drug targets
Wellcome Sanger Institute and EMBO

4 Jul 2023

Sanger researchers honoured by EMBO

The scientists are being recognised by EMBO for their contributions to immunology, single-cell genomics and machine learning methods.

26 Jun 2023

Swapping stethoscopes for sequencing - a doctor's journey

Chenqu Suo looks back on her PhD, discussing her scientific highlights and her thoughts about what makes the Sanger Institute a special place to study.
Pete Bucktrout, British Antarctic Survey

23 Jun 2023

New genomic mechanisms of fish survival in the extreme cold revealed

New genome data from icefish uncovers their evolutionary history and mechanisms that support adaptation to extreme cold

21 Jun 2023

A barcoding buzz

Sanger researchers are involved in large-scale projects that aim to revolutionise how we monitor and understand global biodiversity – starting with insects. But some of their work is starting closer to home, working with schools and local communities to monitor insect biodiversity across Cambridgeshire and Essex.

20 Jun 2023

Meet Alistair Miles - Malaria Vector Surveillance Lead

With a decade of experience turning mosquitoes into genomic data, Alistair Miles is a pillar of the community of entomologists and analysts that keep track of the evolutionary twists and turns of malaria mosquitoes
David Gregory and Debbie Marshall, Wellcome Images, CC-BY-4.0

15 Jun 2023

Mapping the evolution of E. coli’s main virulence factor offers a refined drug target

Researchers have shown how targeting the bacterium’s protective capsule, which is linked to its virulence, could help prevent and treat ...
AdobeStock

14 Jun 2023

New tool uncovers COVID-19 susceptibility mechanism

Researchers have discovered a genetic mechanism that may explain some of the variation in the risk of COVID-19 infection
Nathan Richoz, University of Cambridge

8 Jun 2023

Single-cell atlas of the whole human lung

First integrated Human Lung Cell Atlas reveals insights into lung diseases

6 Jun 2023

New scheme launched to support researchers returning after extended leave

A new, unique scheme to support postdoctoral researchers at the Sanger Institute launched this year. Backed by the Institute’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion initiative, the scheme aims to build capacity after a period of leave.

30 May 2023

Predicting the future of genomics

An interview with the Sanger Institute’s new director, Matt Hurles.

22 May 2023

Empowering microbiome research in underrepresented countries

Mentoring and training early career scientists; building technology that can adapt to humid and hotter countries; finding a way of transporting anaerobic microorganisms. The pathway to accelerating microbiome research isn’t lacking challenges.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

18 May 2023

Academy of Medical Sciences announces new Sanger Institute Fellows

Wellcome Sanger Institute scientists, Dr Trevor Lawley, Professor Ben Lehner and Professor Julian Rayner have been elected as Fellows of the ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

15 May 2023

COSMIC welcomes Jon Teague as new director

COSMIC (the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer) - an Associate Research Programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute - is delighted to welcome ...

10 May 2023

A representative reference genome

The human reference genome is the foundation of modern human genetics and genomics, underpinning most research into human health and disease. But, it has limitations - it doesn't reflect human genetic diversity. A new, pangenome reference has now been published, aiming to better represent humanity.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 May 2023

Two Sanger scientists elected as Fellows of the Royal Society

Two Wellcome Sanger Institute researchers, Dr Phil Jones and Professor Ben Lehner, have been elected as Fellows of the Royal Society ...
Phil Mynott / Wellcome Sanger Institute

5 May 2023

Genomics campus expansion to boost science in UK and health globally

Wellcome announces major investment in phase one of Cambridgeshire development which will deliver new lab space, homes, amenities, and unlock future ...
courtesy of Ocean Census

27 Apr 2023

‘Race against time’ to discover ocean life prompts launch of global Ocean Census initiative

The largest programme in history to discover life in our ocean has been unveiled with the ambitious target of finding at ...

21 Apr 2023

World Malaria Day 2023: Investing, innovating, and implementing genomic surveillance

Every year on April 25th, we observe World Malaria Day to raise awareness and mobilise action against malaria. This year, the World Health Organisation’s call to action focuses on three key areas: investing in the global malaria response, stepping up innovation, and implementing the strategies we have now.

Adobestock

20 Apr 2023

Evolution of two contagious cancers affecting Tasmanian devils underlines unpredictability of disease threat

Scientists have traced the family trees of two transmissible cancers that affect Tasmanian devils and have pinpointed mutations which may drive ...

19 Apr 2023

A defining moment for cholera control

Using genomics to identify the exact strains of bacteria responsible for cholera outbreaks has overturned centuries of thought about the very nature of the disease. Integrating genomics into cholera surveillance efforts will be vital to track and ultimately end the current pandemic, as well as reduce the threat of future ones.

14 Apr 2023

Celebrations, community, and a common aim

Some of our staff reflect on their experiences of working on the Human Genome Project, what it means to them, and how life at the Wellcome Sanger Institute has grown.
Dasha Brogden

13 Apr 2023

5,500 people diagnosed with rare genetic diseases in major research study 

Around 5,500 people with severe developmental disorders now know the genetic cause of their condition, thanks to a major nationwide ...
National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health

13 Apr 2023

New tool tracks individual immune cell development

Dandelion is a new tool that combines B and T cell receptor data with single cell genomics, allowing researchers to track ...

6 Apr 2023

Building a bioinformatics community to tackle genomic questions at scale

Over 60 bioinformaticians and developers from across the Sanger Institute and EMBL’s European Bioinformatics Institute came together to take part in this nf-core hackathon to more easily share and analyse genomes.
Alexandra Canet Font, Wellcome Sanger Institute

4 Apr 2023

Sanger spin-out Mosaic Therapeutics shows strength of Institute’s cancer research  

The company, Mosaic Therapeutics, spins out from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, translating the Institute’s cancer research expertise into a world-class ...

3 Apr 2023

African researchers training to develop large-scale genomics projects

As the science of genomics becomes ever more sophisticated, global capacity-sharing has never been more important.

Kenny Roberts, Cellular Genetics, Wellcome Sanger Institute

29 Mar 2023

Cell mapping and ‘mini placentas’ give new insights into human pregnancy 

Researchers have revealed what happens in the early stages of placental development, a process crucial for a successful pregnancy, hoping to ...

23 Mar 2023

Accidental Entrepreneur

In this third part of our innovator blog series, we spoke to Matt Hurles, Head of the Human Genetics programme and incoming Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute. Matt defines himself as an accidental entrepreneur, even though he spearheads a number of innovative initiatives that showcase his motivation to ultimately bring benefits to patients.

16 Mar 2023

Cholera and syphilis captured in BioArt

How historical artefacts can highlight the progression of science and medicine.
AdobeStock

13 Mar 2023

New research writes the rules on CRISPR activation  

Researchers have started to map out the rules on how to use CRISPR activation techniques in the most effective way, assisting ...

13 Mar 2023

Three mind-blowing examples of parasites that hijack their hosts’ brains and bodies

It’s not just fungal parasites that can control their hosts’ minds and behaviour. Wasps, worms and single-celled organisms can all affect their hosts’ brains to aid their own survival.

9 Mar 2023

Building Confidence and Careers: Research Institute Technician Symposium 2023

The Wellcome Sanger Institute proudly hosted this year’s Research Institute Technician Symposium. Find out about the day, and the winners of the 2023 Research Institute Technician Awards.
Petra Korlevic

8 Mar 2023

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion champions recognised at Best Practice Awards

The Wellcome Genome Campus holds its annual awards for Best Practice in supporting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in science, in celebration ...

2 Mar 2023

Driven by curiosity: Filling in the gaps of the protist puzzle

Dr Ore Francis is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. One of three inaugural Excellence Fellows, Ore is exploring the proteins that are at the root of all life on Earth, answering questions about adaptation and evolution along the way.

23 Feb 2023

LGBTQ+ History Month

February is LGBTQ+ History Month, an opportunity to learn from our past and keep standing in solidarity to make history for the LGBTQ+ community. We spoke to colleagues at the Wellcome Sanger Institute about their LGBTQ+ heroes of the past and present.

21 Feb 2023

New postdoc award scheme winners

Meet the first two winners of our new internal funding scheme to accelerate postdocs along their career trajectory
Adobe Stock

16 Feb 2023

Machine learning helps determine success of advanced genome editing

Study assesses thousands of DNA sequences introduced into the genome using prime editors
Annie Cavanagh CC BY-NC 4.0

14 Feb 2023

Blood cancer manipulates immune cells in order to survive  

Data could help to identify patients who would benefit from newer immune-based therapies
Onur Pinar, Wellcome Sanger Institute

13 Feb 2023

Professor Matt Hurles appointed Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute

Current Head of the Human Genetics Programme at the Institute will formally take up the Directorship later this year.

9 Feb 2023

A passion for problem solving

As part of our innovator blog series, we spoke to Qianxin Wu who works jointly in our Cellular Genetics programme and our Cellular and Gene Editing R&D team. Qianxin is at the forefront of innovation, working on CRISPR, genome editing and single-cell technologies.
Onur Pinar / Wellcome Sanger Institute

9 Feb 2023

Sarah Teichmann receives the FEBS | EMBO Women in Science Award 2023

The Sanger Institute’s Head of Cellular Genetics, Dr Sarah Teichmann is recognised for outstanding achievements in single-cell genomics and immunology, ...

30 Jan 2023

Attending to tropical disease

The potential of genomics to improve our understanding of the fundamental biology of neglected tropical diseases.

30 Jan 2023

The forgotten disease

For World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, we spoke to Dr Tess Attenborough, who works on understanding the biology of Schistosoma mansoni, a parasitic worm that causes schistosomiasis.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

26 Jan 2023

‘Collateral damage’ from normal cell function may cause mutations that play a role in cancer

APOBEC1 enzyme likely responsible for two mutational signatures found in many cancers in small intestine

25 Jan 2023

Celebrating the contributions of women during the pandemic

How did the pandemic impact the role of women in science? And what will its legacy be? These were just some of the questions discussed at the Snapshots of Women in COG: Scientific excellence during the COVID-19 pandemic book launch event

20 Jan 2023

Meet Cristina Ariani - Malaria Parasite Surveillance Lead

Combining bold scientific leadership, deep operational expertise, and a knack for building community, Cristina Ariani is ready to take up her new role at the Sanger Institute and drive public health impact
M. Coelho, et al. (2023)

19 Jan 2023

Bowel cancer mutations that impact immunotherapy identified    

Researchers used CRISPR and mini tumours to discover more about how cancer develops and responds to the body’s immune response.
Emilie Abby

19 Jan 2023

Protective mutation impairs oesophagus tumour growth

Cells carrying mutations in the NOTCH1 gene take over the human oesophagus by middle age but inhibit oesophageal tumour growth in ...
Dan Ross/Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 Jan 2023

Human respiratory pathogens will be tracked in new initiative

Data generated will lead to better understanding of common pathogens, act as an early warning system for new viruses and support ...

10 Jan 2023

To influenza and beyond

The Sanger Institute’s new Respiratory Virus and Microbiome Initiative will lead the way in developing the genomic tools and methodology to study and track a range of viruses and understand how they interact with the respiratory microbiome and human hosts.

21 Dec 2022

From creation to celebration: Behind the scenes of the Science and Sport Fun day

Celebrating the 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay
Nathan Richoz

21 Dec 2022

Spatial lung cell atlas offers insights into disease and immune function

Researchers have genetically profiled nearly 200,000 cells from lungs, mapping their precise locations in tissue to discover an unexpected new ...
Adobestock

19 Dec 2022

Healthy newborns in the UK are not colonised by multi-drug-resistant hospital bacteria

Research shows that newborn babies’ gut bacteria do not contain multi-drug resistant hospital adapted strains when they leave the hospital.

14 Dec 2022

The Sanger Prize: Taking life in a different direction

Meet the next generation of genomic scientists who are benefiting from our founder's generosity

8 Dec 2022

Brazil, bats and GoaT

Find out about Genomes on a Tree (or GoaT) database, which will hold data for the hundreds of thousand of species that are currently having their genomes sequenced for the first time.
Peng He, Kyungtae Lim, Dawei Sun, et al

8 Dec 2022

Developmental Lung Cell Atlas uncovers 144 cell states 

Researchers have created a spatial cell atlas of the developing human lung, describing 144 cell types and their interactions in unparalleled ...

8 Dec 2022

Software to sort samples and sequence species at scale

Meet the software developers, informaticians and bioinformaticians who are helping to sequence the DNA of all life on earth.
National Trust Images / James Dobson

7 Dec 2022

New genomes to help protect Britain’s wild and ancient apples

European crab-apple and four heritage edible apple varieties sequenced as part of Darwin Tree of Life project
N. Gamonal, Didde Sørensen

6 Dec 2022

Following insect footprints to improve crop resilience and monitor pollinator biodiversity 

Pollinators leave behind DNA ‘footprints’ on crops, which can be used as a non-invasive way to inform crop management and support ...

30 Nov 2022

Springtails, fly testes and the secrets of strange reproduction

Dr Kamil Jaron is interested in strange reproduction (in a genomic sense). His work is exploring the changes in DNA variation and chromosome structure caused by the different ways species reproduce, to see how this drives evolution.
Omer Bayraktar & Kenny Roberts

23 Nov 2022

New hope for kidney cancer treatment using existing drugs

Molecular pathway involved in renal cell carcinoma has already been targetted to treat lung cancer

23 Nov 2022

The Power of Resilience: Attending the UK’s largest tech event for women

A group of women from Sanger’s Production Software Development team will head to London this month to join 4,500+ tech innovators, leaders and industry titans at this year’s Women of Silicon Roundabout conference.

18 Nov 2022

Asexuality in STEM: Definitions, misconceptions, and queer joy

What it means to be asexual, misconceptions and queer joy in the science communication space.

17 Nov 2022

An ancient foe and a modern arms race

How genomic surveillance is helping to spot, track and predict drug resistance in malaria parasites across the globe.
A. Lomakin EMBL-EBI/DKFZ

9 Nov 2022

Breast cancer spread uncovered by new molecular microscopy  

Researchers have created a tool that maps how breast cancer grows in previously unseen detail, and highlights how the cells around ...

9 Nov 2022

Sequencing anything, anytime, anywhere

We talk to Physilia Chua about her work to monitor biodiversity and make DNA sequencing more accessible.

3 Nov 2022

Understand, predict, engineer

Ben Lehner joins the Sanger Institute as a new Senior Group Leader. He seeks to lay the foundations for programmable biology.
Adobe Stock

2 Nov 2022

Sepsis and Covid-19 patients most at risk predicted with genetic model

Model paves the way for applying precision medicine techniques to diseases like sepsis that have proven difficult to diagnose and treat

31 Oct 2022

Representation matters

Sasha Henriques explores some of issues around race and representation in genomics and genomic counselling.
tomskipp.com (Left photo)

27 Oct 2022

Wellcome Sanger Institute announces three inaugural Excellence Fellows

The first three Sanger Excellence Postdoctoral Fellows have been announced and will join the Wellcome Sanger Institute in the coming months, ...
Andre van der Veen/Adobe Stock

25 Oct 2022

Resistance genes mapped for drugs to treat parasitic worms

Study pinpoints how drug resistance emerges and provides crucial data for tracking resistant variants in the field

19 Oct 2022

From genomes to medicines: an interview with Ian Dunham

Ian Dunham has been a pillar of Open Targets since its inception. Helena Cornu sat down with him to understand how his career led him from the Human Genome Project to Director of Open Targets, and what he envisions for the future of the consortium.‌
Wellcome Sanger Institute

17 Oct 2022

Sanger researcher elected to U.S. National Academy of Medicine

Dr Peter Campbell honoured for his pioneering work in cancer genomics and tumour evolution

11 Oct 2022

Celebrating women in STEM

It’s Ada Lovelace Day – an international celebration of the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

10 Oct 2022

Orcinus orca: How a tragic stranding helped us dive into the killer whale genome

New genome sequence will boost research into the evolution and population genetics of killer whales
Paul Turner

10 Oct 2022

Pockets of resistance found in survey of pathogen diversity

Hidden multi-drug resistant and virulent strains detected by population deep sequencing approach

7 Oct 2022

I Am A Biologist

This biology week celebrates the amazing worlds of bioscience. We asked some of our staff to tell us about their work, and why they love biology.

3 Oct 2022

Biodiversity genomics event returns

This free and open event brings together international researchers to share breakthroughs, challenges and advances in how we apply genomics to understanding, utilising and protecting life on Earth.

3 Oct 2022

You have to be in it, to win it - association with Horizon Europe

Science is not a zero sum game. We all win when we work together and the Horizon Europe programme is a fantastic opportunity that brings researchers across Europe to grow their skils and solve many of our most pressing issues. Falling out of this community will damage the UK’s science for many years to come, argues Sarion Bowers, Head of Policy at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
David Levene / Wellcome Sanger Institute

28 Sep 2022

Sanger joins Europe’s drive to reverse biodiversity loss through genomics research

Sanger Institute scientists join European experts to launch Biodiversity Genomics Europe, an unprecedented project that will tackle the biodiversity crisis using ...

26 Sep 2022

How do you sequence over 240,000 whole human genomes?

The world’s largest human genome sequencing project has been for UK Biobank – a large-scale biomedical database. Sanger staff have sequenced 243,633 human genomes in 3.5 years.

26 Sep 2022

Our UK Biobank Journey: 3 years and over 240,000 human genomes

In 2019, the Sanger Institute started on the most ambitious human genome sequencing project in the world. Three years later, the Institute has delivered nearly 250,000 whole human genome sequences and over 20 petabytes (PB) of data, for the UK Biobank project, to aid research into health and disease.

15 Sep 2022

Experiencing Sanger's science first hand

This year the Sanger Institute gave three Year 12 students the opportunity to directly contribute our cutting-edge science. Read about their experiences

7 Sep 2022

Butterflies, peacock spiders, and rapid speciation

Dr Joana Meier, new group leader in the Tree of Life programme, describes her research into how and why groups of animals evolve and diversify into new species over millennia.
AdobeStock

7 Sep 2022

Study develops new way of identifying cancer cells 

Open access software also provides crucial data on the microenvironment of tumours

5 Sep 2022

Sanger researchers share in grant to develop lupus treatments

Three international teams receive funding from Lupus Research Alliance to advance research targeting cognition, gut microbiome and ancestral genetics

1 Sep 2022

Genomics: A challenging field full of opportunity

Read our Associate Director's report from the recent Global Genetics Conference.
S. Schuller

29 Aug 2022

Study zeroes in on genes involved in Crohn’s disease

Role of mesenchymal cells in causing inflammation highlighted

16 Aug 2022

From genomes to vaccines: lessons from the pneumococcus

Decade-long surveillance of a deadly bacterial pathogen has shown how genomics can be used to design effective vaccines and combat antimicrobial resistance.

16 Aug 2022

Genomics empowers vaccine makers to tackle shapeshifting bacteria

Strain with increased virulence, multi-drug resistance and ability to evade vaccines identified as key threat
Wellcome Sanger Institute

11 Aug 2022

Origins of germ cell tumours unravelled giving possible opportunities for future treatment

Researchers have studied the root of germ cell tumours and revealed molecular signatures that could help guide the course of treatment ...
AdobeStock

10 Aug 2022

Immune cells acquire genomic scars in a lifetime defending against infection

Immune cells known as lymphocytes have been genetically sequenced in more detail than ever before to investigate how mutations in these ...

9 Aug 2022

Finishing genome puzzles

Explore the skilful art of interpreting genome sequence data - from the human genome project to all species.
Shilts et al.

3 Aug 2022

First map of immune system connections reveals new therapeutic opportunities

Sanger researchers have created the first full connectivity map of the human immune system, showing how immune cells communicate with each ...

3 Aug 2022

Unlocking surface proteins

A decades-long interest in cell surface proteins has led to discoveries as diverse as how malaria parasites invade human blood cells, a vaccine target for a neglected tropical disease, and finding the molecules that must interact to initiate new life.

27 Jul 2022

Genomics drives UK life science success, new report finds

Genomics companies outperform their life science peers at attracting both public and private investment according to a new report

18 Jul 2022

Catalysing collaboration: from the commercial sector to Sanger

Meet Julie Hipkiss, Associate Director of Enterprise Solutions at the Wellcome Sanger Institute
Pixabay

15 Jul 2022

Genetic changes that affect the risk of developing pre-leukaemia identified 

New genetic variants have been identified that increase the likelihood of developing clonal haematopoiesis, which is a risk factor for multiple ...

14 Jul 2022

Mutation pathway to bowel cancer discovered 

Inherited mutations in the MUTYH gene lead to a higher mutational burden in healthy intestinal cells, causing pre-cancerous growths and a ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

14 Jul 2022

World's largest database for predicting cancer treatment response based on cancer proteins

Data analysed using deep learning technique to predict the response of cancer cells to treatment
Wellcome Sanger Institute

12 Jul 2022

New hub to help make global genomic surveillance of disease a reality

Unit’s mission will be to accelerate the generation of genomic data on a large scale

12 Jul 2022

Searching for the roots of childhood cancer

Meet Thomas Oliver, trainee pathologist and PhD student, working on the origins of childhood cancers.
AdobeStock

11 Jul 2022

First genetic map of one of humans oldest parasites

Modern day and ancient samples of the parasitic worm that causes the neglected tropical disease, Trichuriasis, have been analysed to create ...
Cecilia Icoresi Mazzeo, Wellcome Sanger Institute

6 Jul 2022

Cell map of human gonads identifies the cells involved in sex determination

Data will empower further study into differences of sex development, infertility and reproductive diseases

6 Jul 2022

Three Sanger Institute researchers honoured by EMBO

The scientists are being recognised for their contributions to immunology, single-cell genomics, malaria research, artificial intelligence and promoting dialogues between scientists, ...

30 Jun 2022

Breath of fresh air

Dr Josie Bryant is a new group leader at the Sanger Institute. She is interested in how microbes in the human lung evolve and adapt over time and how this affects health and disease. We spoke to Josie about the inspirations behind her science, returning to Sanger, and what excites her about establishing a new research group.

29 Jun 2022

LGBTQ+ scientists who shaped history

Science thrives on diversity. Diversity of opinions, upbringing, experiences, and lifestyles, brings about innovation. It is imperative that everyone feels safe and comfortable to be their true selves at work, as that is how the best work is achieved.

20 Jun 2022

Smashing stereotypes in science

Two new projects, Science for Everyone and Adopt a Scientist, aim to challenge unconscious bias around science and science careers.

Adobe Stock

15 Jun 2022

Badger genome to enable study of disease, climate change and social interaction

The genome will help understand how harsh conditions in early life affect success, and other research questions
AdobeStock

1 Jun 2022

Cellular secrets of ageing unlocked by researchers

Researchers have discovered how genetic mutations accumulated slowly over a lifetime lead to dramatic changes in how blood is formed after ...
Karen Arnott EMBL-EBI

1 Jun 2022

Impact of DNA mutations on lifelong blood cell production uncovered 

Researchers discover how leukaemia-associated gene mutations steadily commandeer blood cell production over a lifetime, and how these changes relate to ageing ...

31 May 2022

COVID-19: update on SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

Current status of coronavirus genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

31 May 2022

Completing the puzzle of life on earth

Behind the scenes of Sanger's Tree of Life programme
Alex Ritter, Jennifer Lippincott Schwartz and Gillian Griffiths, National Institutes of Health

26 May 2022

Study tracking T-cell activation over time boosts search for immune disease treatments

Cells tracked through four points in time to map activation at molecular level

17 May 2022

Six unbelievable things you probably didn’t know about DNA

Explore the surprising secrets of DNA, genes and genomes.

13 May 2022

Three Sanger scientists recieve prestigious fellowships for their work

Congratulations to Professor Nicholas Thomson and Dr John Marioni who have been recognised by the Academy of Medical Sciences, and Professor ...
Chenqu Suo, Sophie Pritchard, Nadav Yayon for the Wellcome Sanger Institute

12 May 2022

Immune cell characteristics mapped across multiple tissues, from early life to adulthood   

Two new papers from the Human Cell Atlas shed new light on the types and traits of immune cells that can ...
Cambridge Independent / Keith Heppell

12 May 2022

Wellcome Genome Campus staff commended at Cambridge Independent Science and Technology Awards

The winners were drawn from all aspects of the Campus' world-leading work with genomes: from academic research to commercial application, and ...
Wellcome Genome Campus

11 May 2022

Birmingham 2022 Queen’s Baton Relay to visit Wellcome Genome Campus as full England route revealed

Baton will visit Wellcome Genome Campus in South Cambridgeshire on 9 July 2022 ahead of the Commonwealth Games
AdobeStock

11 May 2022

Increased mutations in children can be traced back to mistakes in father’s sperm     

Researchers have traced the cause of increased numbers of mutations in children to a higher rate of random mutations in sperm ...

4 May 2022

Supporting translational research at the Sanger Institute 

Six innovative projects have been selected by the Translation Committee for their potential of delivering novel approaches for the advancement of ...

27 Apr 2022

You can change the world

In conversation with Julia Gillard, who has recently joined Wellcome as Chair of the Board. Wellcome aim to solve the urgent health challenges facing everyone.

25 Apr 2022

From genome data to malaria control

How MalariaGEN's latest genetic data resources are helping in the fight to eliminate malaria.

22 Apr 2022

Contamination control and walking with dinosaurs

Meet Laura Grout, a Quality Assurance Manager playing a vital role in genomic surveillance and UK Biobank projects at the Sanger Institute.

Wellcome Sanger Institute:Genome Research Ltd

14 Apr 2022

New bacteria in mice associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Bacteria that cause weight loss and intestinal inflammation discovered in mice should be considered in the interpretation and design of future ...
Alex Cagan, Wellcome Sanger Institute

13 Apr 2022

Mutations across animal kingdom shed new light on ageing

Quantity of mutations acquired similar over lifetime of 16 species, despite vast differences in lifespan and body mass
David Levine / Wellcome Sanger Institute

7 Apr 2022

Take on a coding challenge to build the Tree of Life

Sanger’s Tree of Life programme is taking part in Google Summer of Code, a global online initiative focused on bringing ...
Adobe Stock

6 Apr 2022

Genes linked to disease affect function of rare immune cell type

Study set out to identify how genetic variants modulate function of regulatory T cells
M. Duque-Correa, D. Goulding, F. Rodgers, et al. (2022)

1 Apr 2022

Mini guts used to study early stages of whipworm infection

Researchers have developed a new organoid model of the mouse gut to understand how the gut lining responds to whipworm infection ...
Ernesto del Aguila III, NHGRI

1 Apr 2022

Researchers generate the first complete, gapless sequence of a human genome

Complete genome sequence will significantly add to knowledge of chromosomes, including more accurate maps for five chromosome arms
Adobe Stock

1 Apr 2022

Study sheds light on why immunodeficiency affects only one identical twin

Cell-cell communication and epigenetic problems found to interfere with immune function

31 Mar 2022

Setting the bar higher – the complete human genome sequence

The newly determined sequence covers previously inaccessible regions of chromosomes, bringing a new era for genomics.

28 Mar 2022

Barcoding creatures and building confidence

Meet Leia Zhao, a research assistant working in the Evolutionary Genomics group in the Tree of Life Programme.
AdobeStock

28 Mar 2022

New analysis sheds light on how to uncover causal variants for immune-mediated diseases

Mapping regulatory trait loci can help uncover which genetic variants are most likely to be the cause of immune-mediated diseases.
AdobeStock

23 Mar 2022

Evolutionary pressures on genes associated with childlessness

Genetic variants that damage the genome have a small association with increased childlessness, but free choice and other factors are more ...

18 Mar 2022

LiFTS: Li Fraumeni over Time Study – tracking changes in LFS

March 20th is Li Fraumeni Syndrome (LFS) Awareness Day. People will be on social media, wearing blue, #WearBlueForLFS, to raise awareness of this little-known cancer syndrome
AdobeStock

14 Mar 2022

New hope for treatment of infant cancer that has puzzled researchers for decades

Subtle differences detected in immune cell type from which infant leukaemia arises

8 Mar 2022

Making your voice heard

Evolutionary genomics, creepy crawlies and being a woman in science

8 Mar 2022

Women rising in STEM

Reflections on working on genomic surveillance in the pandemic, and being a woman in science.
Petra Korlevic, Wellcome Sanger Institute

8 Mar 2022

Work to promote race equity in science celebrated at Best Practice Awards

The Wellcome Genome Campus holds its annual awards for Best Practice for Supporting Equality and Diversity in Science, in celebration of ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

4 Mar 2022

Statement on the war in Ukraine

Communication from the Wellcome Sanger Institute

1 Mar 2022

Sequencing COVID variants: latest stats

Latest numbers for coronavirus genome sequencing at the Sanger Institute

28 Feb 2022

The power of sharing

Three opportunities and challenges in rare disease research
Adobe Stock

24 Feb 2022

Genomic study shows that England’s travel quarantine measures were effective – up to a point

More than half of imported cases during period studied came from just three countries
AdobeStock

23 Feb 2022

Calls to share genetic data fairly and promote conservation

Scientists from 17 countries have published their thoughts on ongoing UN policy discussions around the sharing of digital sequence information to ...
AdobeStock

23 Feb 2022

New drug combinations found for resistant cancers

Sanger researchers have created the world’s largest novel resource using systematic drug testing and genetics analyses to show new potential ...

16 Feb 2022

The diversity of plants

We spoke to some of the team planning to sequence the DNA of every plant species in Britain and Ireland about the diversity of plant genomes and the importance of plant science in the face of global challenges.

11 Feb 2022

International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2022

To celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science, celebrated annually on 11 February, we asked some of our female staff to tell us about their work, and what being a woman in science means to them.

11 Feb 2022

Women rising in STEM

To celebrate International Day of Women & Girls in Science, we sat down with Sanger Associate Director, Dr Julia Wilson to talk about her career so far and being a woman in science.

3 Feb 2022

Engaging everyone with science

Researchers discuss an innovative new training course designed to help them engage the public with science, with a focus on equity and diversity.

AdobeStock

3 Feb 2022

Motivations to take part in research vary around the world   

Being able to receive results is a key motivator that influences participation in research, according to public audiences from the USA, ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

1 Feb 2022

Professor Sir Mike Stratton to step down from Institute Directorship  

The new Director will be appointed over the coming year, and Sir Mike will remain at the Institute to continue conducting ...

27 Jan 2022

Exploring race, diversity and genomics

A new PhD project will explore structural inequalities in genomic research
AdobeStock

19 Jan 2022

Adult blood cancer-causing mutations occur in early childhood  

Mutations that cause adult blood cancer have been traced to acquisition in childhood, suggesting that cancer causing events can arise in ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

17 Jan 2022

British and Irish project at forefront of global effort to map genomes of all life on Earth

Activity on Earth BioGenome Project and affiliated initiatives due to ramp up considerably in 2022
Omer Bayraktar

13 Jan 2022

Unprecedented cellular maps of tissues enabled by new tool

Ability to combine cell function and spatial information key to understanding life at molecular level
Michael Sweet, University of Derby

10 Jan 2022

New centre to explore links between organisms and their microbiomes

The £10m Leverhulme Centre for the Holobiont aims to create a green revolution in agriculture, rescue threatened species, and restore habitats
AdobeStock

5 Jan 2022

Superbug MRSA arose in hedgehogs before use of antibiotics

Scientists have found evidence that the antibiotic resistant superbug MRSA arose in nature long before the use of antibiotics, which has ...
Adobe Stock

22 Dec 2021

Rapid immune response in children protects them from COVID-19, genetic study finds

Discovery of importance of interferon response in preventing serious infection will underpin new diagnostics and therapeutics

21 Dec 2021

21 things we’ve learned in 2021

We would like to bring you 21 things that we have learned in the year 2021

20 Dec 2021

Sanger researcher invited to deliver 2022 Balfour Lecture 

The award marks Dr Sam Behjati’s contributions to genetics research, as an outstanding young investigator

20 Dec 2021

The Story of Dogs

Dogs, descended from wolves, were the first animals to be domesticated by humans, some 40,000 years ago. New research, using modern DNA sequencing, is unravelling the evolutionary history of our canine companions.

16 Dec 2021

Darwin Tree of Life in 2021: Tireless fieldwork and the first beautiful genomes

Teams have been collecting species across the UK - from the mountains of Scotland, to the sea caves of Wales, and the forests of Oxfordshire. Back in the labs we’ve been processing protists, extracting DNA, and assembling and publishing the first of our high-quality, reference genomes.
AdobeStock

10 Dec 2021

Genetic history of British Pakistanis mapped for the first time

Analysis of genomic data from the Born in Bradford study will help to ensure those of Pakistani ancestry benefit from advances ...
Wellcome Connecting Science

9 Dec 2021

New centre to foster global conversations about ethical issues raised by science

The University of Cambridge and Wellcome Connecting Science announce the launch of the Kavli Centre for Ethics, Science, and the Public, ...
AdobeStock

9 Dec 2021

New link between malaria parasites and sickle haemoglobin identified 

Some malaria parasites in sub-Saharan Africa have genetic variants that allow them to infect those with sickle haemoglobin, which is normally ...
AdobeStock

8 Dec 2021

Launch of Fellowship programme to support next generation of Black scientists

The three-year Fellowship is open exclusively to early-stage Black heritage researchers who studied at a UK institution and offers a fully ...

8 Dec 2021

Research Excellence: The Power of Diversity

The Sanger Institute recently hosted three speakers as part of a new series - Research Excellence: The Power of Diversity. Read a short summary of the talks and view a Q&A with the speakers.
Rawlinson et al.

2 Dec 2021

Human parasite’s daily rhythms could be targeted for better treatments

The parasitic worm that causes the neglected tropical disease, schistosomiasis, has daily rhythms in gene expression, including genes that could be ...

2 Dec 2021

Mapping the endometrium, cell by cell

Dr Roser Vento-Tormo tells us about her work to map the cells lining the uterus in space and time, how it epitomises her love of collaboration in science

2 Dec 2021

Spinning out the science

Much of our research has the potential to positively impact people's lives around the world. And who better to deliver this than the scientists themselves?
Kenny Roberts, Wellcome Sanger Institute

2 Dec 2021

Uterus study is important step towards understanding diseases that affect one third of women

The study's organoid-based techniques provide a sophisticated model of endometrial function and will form a blueprint for discovering how other ...
Adobe Stock

26 Nov 2021

Syphilis is back and it is global, genetic study suggests

Disease incidence has risen sharply in recent decades
AdobeStock

23 Nov 2021

IBS biomarker identified that could help personalise diet and treatment

Half of people with Irritable Bowel Syndrome have a distinct microbiome compared to healthy people, and they respond better to a ...

22 Nov 2021

A Space for Science

"The most incredible things in research are the incidental findings, the serendipitous connections, moments when you are looking for one thing but you find another.”

Wellcome Sanger Institute

19 Nov 2021

Sanger celebrates Highly Cited Researchers

A number of researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute have been named on Clarivate's Highly Cited list
Project JAGUAR

17 Nov 2021

Researchers will map immune cells across Latin America with support from CZI

Researchers will sequence immune cell diversity across Latin America for the first time, shedding light on how ancestry impacts the immune ...

17 Nov 2021

Whole Genome Sequencing data on 200,000 UK Biobank participants are made widely available for research through unique public-private partnership

First release from world’s largest whole genome sequencing project could help researchers to understand the genetic determinants of disease and ...

15 Nov 2021

Covid Connections - Big Data in a Pandemic World

Researchers discuss COVID-19 genome data and its complexities, data sharing and security, and their careers in data science
AdobeStock

9 Nov 2021

New database of 660,000 assembled bacterial genomes sheds light on the evolution of bacteria  

A vast, curated collection of bacterial genomes has been created that allows the community unprecedented access to data.

3 Nov 2021

A Cellular Landscape

The connections between the external and internal environments are explored in a new experimental short film ‘Call of the Silent Cell’. The film created was by artists working with scientists in the Human Cell Atlas (HCA) – a global project to map the 37 trillion cells in our bodies, and forms part of a new, online exhibition.
Gemma Girdler, University of Cambridge

3 Nov 2021

Sanger researchers to tackle deadly brain cancer with ‘tissue time machine’

Sanger Institute scientists are starting a new project that will integrate information from spatial transcriptomics with single-cell RNA and DNA sequencing, ...

2 Nov 2021

Sanger employee recognised in BioBeat’s top 30 trendsetters in UK life sciences  

Burcu Bronner-Anar is celebrated in BioBeat’s ‘Movers and Shakers in BioBusiness report’ that lists 30 UK trendsetters who are tackling ...

29 Oct 2021

Art and science unite to explore the intricacies of the human body 

The exhibition, One Cell At A Time opens on the 29th October 2021. It combines art and science to explore the ...
Saltanat ebli, Wikimedia Commons, Creative Commons CC0 1.0

25 Oct 2021

Huge global variation in oesophageal cancer incidence not due to a unique pattern of DNA damage 

Major global research collaboration adds new piece to the complex puzzle of oesophageal cancer

25 Oct 2021

Hunting for the unknown causes of cancer

Patient advocates share their involvement in the mutographs research project, their experiences of cancer, and their journey around the globe.

22 Oct 2021

A Health Data Research UK Black Internship Programme experience

This Black History Month, we asked Ifeanyi Chukwu to reflect on his recent experiences as an intern within HDR UK’s Black Internship Programme at the University of Cambridge, and what it was like working with one of the world’s biggest health data sets.

18 Oct 2021

Marine medicines from the slimiest of worms

“They’re not cute or charismatic. They have toxic mucus. But I like nemerteans because no one is rooting for them – and we know so little about them.”

H.S.Vöhringer, et al.

14 Oct 2021

The inside story of England COVID pandemic described in new study

The most detailed analysis of SARS-CoV-2 genomics surveillance to date shows COVID-19 as a series of overlapping epidemics rather than a ...
Dr Bartomeu Colom, Wellcome Sanger Institute

13 Oct 2021

Mutated cells drive out early tumours from the oesophagus

Normal human oesophagus carries a high number of mutations, but tumours are rare, due to mutant cells eliminating early tumours
AdobeStock

13 Oct 2021

Mutations in liver cells linked to liver disease and fat metabolism  

Mutations linking liver disease with obesity and diabetes have been identified, leading to new understanding about how systemic diseases interact

11 Oct 2021

Talent in Diversity

Over this year's Black History Month, we are celebrating the diversity of talent here at the Sanger Institute. For this profile, we spoke to Alice Matimba, Global Training Manager at Wellcome Connecting Science.

7 Oct 2021

We are molecular mosaics

Quantifying the mutational landscape of the human body

1 Oct 2021

Talent in Diversity

Over this year’s Black History Month, we are celebrating the diversity of talent here at the Sanger Institute. Here, three of our scientists reflect on their paths into research and why diversity in science is so important.
Wellcome Sanger Institute

30 Sep 2021

Higher rates of mutation alone are not to blame for age related disease  

Researchers have found that cells tolerate many more mutations than previously thought, without impacting their function
Novopath, Newcastle Upon Tyne NHS Trust

29 Sep 2021

Cell atlas reveals how blood and immune systems form in developing bone marrow

Study fills large knowledge gap and has important implications for diagnosis and treatment of immune deficiencies and leukaemia

28 Sep 2021

Genomics for all

In this guest post, Sadye Paez and Marcela Uliano-Silva explore what it takes to sequence the genomes of all life on Earth with the principles of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.

23 Sep 2021

Eimeria: the chicken parasite costing farmers billions

By sequencing the genome of this single-celled coccidian parasite, scientists hope to develop better vaccines to protect poultry from a disease that causes severe diarrhoea and death.

20 Sep 2021

Celebrating Sanger Postdocs

This week (20th-24th September) is Postdoc Appreciation Week - a time to celebrate the fantastic contribution postdoctoral scientists make.

Mohammad Rahmatullah

14 Sep 2021

Evidence-based national policies are essential to curb local COVID-19 infections

By using genomic surveillance and mobile phone data, researchers have uncovered useful insights into the management of the COVID-19 pandemic in ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

10 Sep 2021

Wellcome Sanger Institute recognised as Charity Times finalist for outstanding contribution to pandemic response

Staff praised for dedication and excellence as they work to sequence coronavirus genomes, helping to shape the pandemic response
Elmentaite et al. Nature DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03852-1

8 Sep 2021

Development study reveals origins of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Creating Cell Atlas of Human Development will transform understanding of health and disease
Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute

1 Sep 2021

International research consortium to tackle tumour drug resistance using single-cell sequencing

Sanger Institute scientists join a new collaborative research project that will use single-cell sequencing to tackle drug resistance and develop smarter ...

31 Aug 2021

Sanger scientists receive Chan Zuckerberg Initiative grants to study childhood diseases

Projects will create cell atlases of the paediatric ovary, skin and brain to better understand human biology and provide reference datasets ...
AdobeStock

27 Aug 2021

Loss of gene linked to differences in brain size  

Inactivation of the MAGEE2 gene, seen widely across East Asia, results in enlarged brains in men and decreased brain size in ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

25 Aug 2021

Researchers discover individual variation in how our bodies develop and acquire mutations 

Studies will help to establish baseline for human development and acquisition of mutations during life in the soma and the germline

23 Aug 2021

Defining Success

Five inspirational speakers share their journeys, definitions of success, and lessons learnt in the space of diversity and inclusion.
AdobeStock

23 Aug 2021

Link between amino acid and a range of common diseases could help predict personal risk

Researchers have identified a link between mitochondrial DNA variants, amino acid fMet, and a range of common, late-onset diseases
AdobeStock

10 Aug 2021

Fighting the spread of drug-resistant malaria with genetic surveillance  

In-depth genomic surveillance of the malaria parasite over multiple countries has tracked regions of drug resistance

9 Aug 2021

From Mild to Mortal

An expert panel discuss some of the latest research into human genetics, immunology and COVID-19.
AdobeStock

5 Aug 2021

Researchers track how microbiome bacteria adapt to humans via transmission

New research has shed light on how transmission of gut bacteria influences its evolution and functions
Adobe Stock

4 Aug 2021

Genetic study reveals ancient human adaptation to agriculture and climate change in Middle East

The most comprehensive study so far of genetic diversity in the Middle East has given a glimpse into the lives of ...
AdobeStock

4 Aug 2021

New therapeutic target discovered for a number of aggressive cancers

An RNA-modifying protein elevated in some aggressive cancers has been shown to be a promising target for new drug development

4 Aug 2021

The evolutionary history of humans

Mohamed Almarri has recently completed a PhD studying population history and global genetic diversity.

2 Aug 2021

OKRs: Strategic planning the Google way

We’re refreshing the way we do strategic planning, using Objectives and Key Results (OKRs)

21 Jul 2021

A forgotten disease

The fight against melioidosis - a neglected, often fatal, bacterial disease.

16 Jul 2021

Reflections on race and equity in research: One year on…

One year on from the murder of George Floyd, we take a step back to reflect on our reactions and actions to that event and its ongoing repercussions.

29 Jun 2021

Covid Connections – Variant or Villain

The second COVID connections talk brought together experts from COG-UK to discuss SARS-CoV-2 variants.

28 Jun 2021

Bacterial Biomes

"we are well aware that what we know about already is just a small percentage of the diversity that actually exists on Earth."
AdobeStock

24 Jun 2021

Water vole genome will help boost conservation of one of UK's most endangered mammals

The water vole genome is published as part of the Darwin Tree of Life Project to assemble the genomes of 70, ...
Kenny Roberts, Bayraktar Lab

23 Jun 2021

Cellular signatures of kidney tumours discovered

This method of identification holds promise as a tool for diagnosing patients with rare cancers

18 Jun 2021

Getting to the heart of the matter

Exploring the genomics of inherited cardiomyopathies.
Mole, M.A. et al

17 Jun 2021

Study identifies trigger for ‘head-to-tail’ axis development in human embryo   

Researchers have mapped, in new detail, the genetic changes that a human embryo goes through as it develops.
AdobeStock

14 Jun 2021

Computer method to help predict outcomes and tailor treatments for patients with inherited heart diseases  

Clinicians and scientists analysed how individual genetic changes affect the heart muscle and created a new computer tool to integrate genomic ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

8 Jun 2021

Sanger Institute human genetics researcher honoured by EMBO

Professor Matthew Hurles, Head of Human Genetics, becomes an elected member of the European Molecular Biology Organization
Human Cell Atlas

8 Jun 2021

Winning Cambridgeshire students design card game inspired by the Human Cell Atlas

Game will be developed and feature in nationwide exhibition
Pixabay

3 Jun 2021

New genetic variants lead to diagnoses for children with developmental disorders

By analysing parts of the genome that do not code for proteins, researchers have identified seven variants linked to developmental disorders.
Adobe Stock

28 May 2021

Genetic study identifies risk for some childhood cancer patients developing secondary leukaemia and will help inform treatment plan

New study used whole genome sequencing to gain further understanding of why some children develop secondary leukaemia after neuroblastoma treatment
AdobeStock

27 May 2021

Atlas of malaria parasite gene activity provides new targets for drugs and vaccines

Researchers have mapped in fine detail the genetic changes malaria parasites go through as they prepare to infect people.

27 May 2021

Genomics in a pandemic - Shedding light on the invisible

Experts from the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium discuss sequencing SARS-CoV-2, variants, and viral fitness landscapes.
Jolanda van Leeuwen

27 May 2021

‘Rescue mutations’ that suppress harmful DNA changes could shed light on origins of genetic disorders

The biological phenomenon may play an important role in genetic diseases such as cancer or rare developmental disorders, and explain why ...
Harriet Auty, University of Glasgow

26 May 2021

Discovery of vaccine target for devastating livestock disease could change lives of millions in sub-Saharan Africa

The findings raise the possibility of identifying vaccine targets for trypanosome species that cause the deadly human infections sleeping sickness and ...

18 May 2021

Car manufacturing, cellular biology and COVID

Rachel Nelson, head of the Cellular Generation and Phenotyping (CGaP) facility, reflects on managing science at scale, including the lessons from industries as far apart as car manufacturing and Silicon Valley.
K Hardy CC BY 4.0

18 May 2021

Unparallelled insights into how our bodies develop from a single cell

Knowing what happens during normal development could help us to understand genetic diseases that arise during pregnancy

13 May 2021

Maturation Block - Redefining Childhood Cancers

Using the latest genome sequencing techniques, Dr Sam Behjati is revealing the journey that cells take on their way to becoming cancerous, and how we might stop them.

11 May 2021

Identifying the rise of multi-drug resistant E. coli

Largest genomic study of E. coli has tracked the rise of multi-drug resistance (MDR) in Norway.

10 May 2021

Dyslexia and neurodiversity in the workplace

Staff share their experiences of dyslexia and how it has affected their careers in science.

4 May 2021

Diversity and Inclusion in Science

The Equality in Science group and the Race Equity Network at the Wellcome Genome Campus welcomed inspirational speakers last year. Read their reflections on racism, diversity and inclusion in science.

30 Apr 2021

Championing Team Science

Professor Muzlifah Haniffa shares her thoughts achieving large-scale science.
AdobeStock

30 Apr 2021

New genetic target for blood cancer treatment 

Researchers have identified a vulnerability in some cases of acute myeloid leukaemia that could be harnessed for targeted treatment of these ...
AdobeStock

29 Apr 2021

New era of quality and scale in genome sequencing will drive biological discovery

Publication of 16 high-quality vertebrate reference genomes establishes standards for biodiversity genomics
Ludovic Collin / Wellcome Images

28 Apr 2021

Major advance enables study of genetic mutations in any tissue

Analysis of blood, colon, brain and muscle tissue indicates cell division is not the primary cause of somatic mutations

27 Apr 2021

From investment banking to genomics and health

Meet Olivier Seret, Principal Software Developer working in the Infection Genomics team.

26 Apr 2021

Novel drug type for blood cancer entering clinical trials 

First drug to target a specific RNA-modifying protein will start clinical trials in 2022 against acute myeloid leukaemia

22 Apr 2021

Taking lockdown baking to a whole new level

New exhibition explores the science of cancer and ageing, through the medium of food and cooking.
Dr. Kelvin (Zewen) Tuong

20 Apr 2021

Differing immune responses discovered in asymptomatic cases versus those with severe COVID-19

Using data from the Human Cell Atlas, researchers have identified the differences in immune cells’ response in those who had no ...
AdobeStock

16 Apr 2021

Genetic variants identified that impact immune cells' functioning 

Researchers have combined genome-wide sequencing and functional profiling of immune cells to understand more about the impact of genetic variants on ...

12 Apr 2021

New genetic drug target for treatment resistant colorectal cancer 

Researchers have identified a new potential drug target for treating some types of advanced colorectal cancers.
Annie Cavanagh

7 Apr 2021

‘Patchwork’ tumours prevalent across multiple cancer types

Scientists have confirmed that tumour evolution is driven by changes that benefit the cancer, and these lead to a wide range ...

31 Mar 2021

New DERMATLAS project will create world's most comprehensive public resource of rare skin tumour genomes 

This project will document the genomes of around 70 rare skin tumours to build a map of how these cancers form ...

30 Mar 2021

Genetic link to male infertility identified

Men who carry a certain subtype of Y chromosome are more likely to experience genetic mutations that lead to low sperm ...

29 Mar 2021

Fighting Pathogens with Data and Partnerships

"Data analysis in genomics means that you can work in something that is meaningful."
Paola Perez, PhD, Warner Lab

25 Mar 2021

Salivary gland cells revealed as sites of COVID-19 infection

Human Cell Atlas findings point to role for saliva in SARS-CoV-2 transmission

24 Mar 2021

New addition to COSMIC database will collate available drugs to target cancer mutations

The Actionability resource identifies relationships between types of cancer, specific mutations and available drugs
Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute

23 Mar 2021

CRISPR study identifies gene that plays key role in metastasis of cancers to the lungs

Over-expression of LRRN4CL was linked to cancer spread in colon, breast and bladder cancers in humans
AdobeStock

18 Mar 2021

Project to understand beginnings of rare childhood cancer awarded innovation funding

Sam Behjati and collaborators at University College London hope to identify new treatment targets by uncovering foetal origins of rhabdomysarcoma.
CDC / Alissa Ecker, MS / Dan_Higgins, MAMS

17 Mar 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via specific viral entry factors that are more abundant in elderly, men and smokers

These findings offer a molecular explanation for the reported differences in disease severity for COVID-19 patients depending on age, gender and ...

16 Mar 2021

From Scorpions to Skin Cancer

Dr Daniela Robles-Espinoza recently joined the Sanger Institute as an International Fellow. She works on acral melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer affecting people in Latin America

11 Mar 2021

Genomic surveillance – the world’s binoculars focused on infectious diseases

Monitoring the microorganisms that cause COVID-19, malaria, cholera and a whole range of other diseases enables researchers to track outbreaks, spot emerging drug resistance and plan interventions.
Adobe Stock

10 Mar 2021

Placenta is a dumping ground for genetic defects 

The study is the first high-resolution survey of the genomic architecture of the human placenta, revealing specific patterns of mutation that ...
CDC/Janice Haney-Carr

9 Mar 2021

Full evolutionary journey of hospital superbug mapped for the first time 

Sanger Institute researchers and their collaborators have published the full genetic timeline of the bacterium, Enterococcus faecalis showing the influence of ...

8 Mar 2021

Students invited to create a card game inspired by the Human Cell Atlas

How to build a Human: Design a card game challenge
Alex Cagan

8 Mar 2021

Virtual event celebrates Equality and Diversity Champions from the Wellcome Genome Campus

Winners of the Best Practice Awards are announced for International Women’s Day

5 Mar 2021

Reverse mentoring: Promoting diversity and positive culture change

Alice Matimba and Martin Dougherty reflect on their experiences of reverse mentoring, and how it can play a key role in promoting positive organisational and research culture.
Sabine van Erp, Pixabay.com

3 Mar 2021

Genomics study identifies routes of transmission of coronavirus in care homes

Genome sequencing was combined with detailed epidemiological information to examine the impact of COVID-19 on care homes and to discover how ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

3 Mar 2021

New search engine for single cell atlases

New software tool allows researchers to rapidly search datasets from single-cell sequencing
L. Custers & J. Drost

3 Mar 2021

Origin of childhood cancer malignant rhabdoid tumour discovered

Researchers identified two drugs that could be used to overcome the genetic root of the disease, resuming normal development and bringing ...

3 Mar 2021

Sanger Institute researcher wins Pezcoller Foundation EACR Rising Star Award

Congratulations to Dr Sam Behjati, who receives the Award in recognition of his potential to make significant contributions to cancer research
Roberto Amato, Wellcome Sanger Institute

24 Feb 2021

Open data on malaria genomes will help combat drug resistance

The release represents the world’s largest resource of genomic data on malaria parasite evolution and drug resistance
AdobeStock

23 Feb 2021

Gene that helps control egg’s journey sheds light on why ectopic pregnancy may occur

Study details the first evidence of gene regulation in the transit of eggs from the ovaries to the uterus in mammals
Dr Fotios Sampaziotis, Dr Teresa Brevini, University of Cambridge

18 Feb 2021

Lab-grown ‘mini-bile ducts’ used to repair human livers in regenerative medicine first

For the first time, this new study has successfully created ‘mini-organs’ in the lab, that could help patients with liver damage
AdobeStock

18 Feb 2021

Scientists identify over 140,000 virus species in the human gut, half of which are new to science

The results form the basis of the highly-curated Gut Phage Database (GPD) which will be an invaluable resource for those studying ...
Prasesh Shiwakoti Lomash, Unsplash.com

12 Feb 2021

New COVID-19 saliva testing strategy could translate into easy-to-use home device

The new testing approach would be easier to collect and simpler to process in the laboratory than the current nasal-swab process.

11 Feb 2021

International Day of Women & Girls in Science 2021

Just 30 per cent of researchers worldwide, only 35 per cent of all students enrolled in STEM-related fields of study are women, and data suggests that the impacts of COVID-19 are disproportionately affecting female researchers more than their male counterparts.
Adobe Stock

5 Feb 2021

New drug targets for childhood cancer neuroblastoma identified

All neuroblastomas arise from developmental cells not normally found in children, making them a promising target for drug development

5 Feb 2021

Sequencing COVID: our latest stats

As the sequencing hub of COG-UK, the Sanger Institute is sequencing the genomes of coronavirus samples from across the country. Get our latest numbers.
Wellcome Leap

28 Jan 2021

Sanger Institute joins Wellcome Leap Global Network dedicated to accelerated breakthroughs in human health

Charter group of 21 world-class institutions representing a network of over 150,000 researchers across six continents sign agreement that sets ...
Newcastle University

21 Jan 2021

Developmental origins of eczema and psoriasis discovered

Skin Cell Atlas points to new drug targets for inflammatory diseases

11 Jan 2021

Snail hotels, 3D printed robots and custom clips

Engineering solutions to genomic research

21 Dec 2020

20 Things We Learned in 2020

This has been a year that none of us will forget in a hurry. The Institute is immensely proud of the way our staff have pulled together, and the work we have managed to achieve
Jayhun Lee, Postdoctoral Fellow, Newmark Lab, Morgridge Institute for Research

18 Dec 2020

Cell atlas of tropical disease parasite may hold key to new treatments

The atlas of 13 distinct cell types at the start of the Schistosoma mansoni's development will aid vaccine and treatment ...

18 Dec 2020

Darwin Tree of Life: Looking back on 2020

Despite restrictions, 2020 has been a busy year for the Darwin Tree of Life Project. We take a look at some of this year’s achievements and highlights.
boredomresearch

15 Dec 2020

Ten artists to create artworks for global research project mapping the human body

Human Cell Atlas explored through art science collaboration
Kenny Roberts and Sophie Pritchard, Wellcome Sanger Institute

7 Dec 2020

Gut research identifies key cellular changes associated with childhood-onset Crohn’s Disease

Gut Cell Atlas reveals gut development mechanisms

1 Dec 2020

Dr Sam Behjati selected as an EMBO Young Investigator

Congratulations to Sanger Institute cancer researcher, Dr Sam Behjati, who has been recognised for his work on the developmental origins of ...
Dan Ross

19 Nov 2020

COG-UK computing effort wins collaboration award for COVID-19 work

HPCwire award recognises consortium's sequencing of tens of thousands of viral genomes
CDC, Alissa Ecker/MS and Dan Higgins/MAMS

16 Nov 2020

Wellcome Sanger Institute and COG-UK receive £12.2M UK Government investment for COVID-19 real-time genomic surveillance system

Institute researchers will support the COVID-19 Genomics UK consortium's work by providing high-throughput virus genome sequencing, creating surveillance software to ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute

11 Nov 2020

Sanger Faculty to co-lead new Italian Genomics Research Centre

Nicole Soranzo will join the Human Technopole Institute to establish its dual programmes of Population and Medical Genomics and Functional Genomics ...

10 Nov 2020

Stand up science

Join us for an evening of science comedy

Adobe Stock

4 Nov 2020

Uncovering the origin of rare childhood cancer guides treatment

Bilateral neuroblastoma cancers in a patient can arise independently from each other, at the very earliest stages of life
Zach Fitzpatrick

4 Nov 2020

Why protecting the brain against infection takes guts

Gut microbes educate antibody producing cells that guard the brain

3 Nov 2020

Sequencing COVID – what now?

Helping to track coronavirus outbreaks.

28 Oct 2020

Human Cell Atlas projects increase diversity of sample donors

Funding from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative enables tissue samples from more diverse ethnic backgrounds
Wellcome Sanger Institute

26 Oct 2020

Sanger Institute welcomes Wellcome's new science strategy

Director Mike Stratton outlines the opportunities and continuing support that Wellcome's new strategy provides for Sanger researchers

22 Oct 2020

Sequencing COVID-19 at the Sanger Institute

This photo essay goes behind the scenes of the effort to sequence the genome of the COVID-19 virus at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
Michael Fallon, Unsplash.com

14 Oct 2020

Study linking 28 genes to developmental disorders will mean diagnoses for around 500 families

Researchers estimate that approximately another 1,000 genes linked to developmental issues have yet to be found
Wellcome Sanger Institute

14 Oct 2020

Update to COSMIC drives precision oncology

The Cancer Mutation Census combines biological, biochemical and population data to enable users to understand which DNA mutations drive human cancers

12 Oct 2020

Equity, diversity and inclusion in science

To celebrate Black History Month, Your Digital Mentor Podcast released a special episode. Academics from across the globe discuss inequalities in science and how things need to change.
Adapted from Nature Immunology DOI: 10.1038/s41590-020-0800-8

12 Oct 2020

Novel map reveals how immune cells fight and remember infections

Mouse immune study gives pointers for development of vaccines and immune therapies
Camila G. Beiras (FLSida https://www.flsida.org/en)

7 Oct 2020

Comeback of drug-resistant neglected tropical disease tracked through genomic surveillance

Study shows that re-emergence was likely caused by latent infections in untreated asymptomatic people

5 Oct 2020

Song Chen to lead research group in Cellular Genetics Programme

This new group will develop powerful, cutting-edge technologies to map individual cells in the brain and other tissues, to understand how ...
Dave Goulding, Wellcome Sanger Institute

1 Oct 2020

Cause of 1990s Argentina cholera epidemic uncovered

Work influenced Argentine health policy, where the national alert surveillance system now uses whole-genome sequencing to distinguish between pandemic and non-pandemic ...

1 Oct 2020

DNA changes in healthy bladder provide clues on how cancer arises

The research reveals a huge diversity in the number and types of changes between individuals, indicating that a wide range of ...

1 Oct 2020

Xylem, Mentoring, and the Worldwide Fantasy Food Tour

Dr Christine Boinett talks about Black History Month, her new international podcast on mentoring and her research on drug-resistant bacteria.
Adobe Stock

24 Sep 2020

Highly detailed map of human heart could guide personalised heart treatments

Heart Cell Atlas will illuminate our understanding of heart health and disease
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

24 Sep 2020

Key genetic clue missing in fight against superbugs

Analysis shows importance of including plasmids when tracking antibiotic resistance in bacterial populations
Michael Sweet, University of Derby

23 Sep 2020

Ambitious genomics project seeks to understand how aquatic species thrive together

The Aquatic Symbiosis Project will empower researchers to answer important questions about the ecology and evolution of symbiosis
Fiona McQueen, Marissa Lassere and Mikkel Østergaard. CC BY 2.0 Wikimedia Commons

21 Sep 2020

Key discovery in psoriatic arthritis points way for developing targeted treatments

Genetic evidence points to potential single cause for the disease

18 Sep 2020

A day in the life of a cell technician: CRISPR, teamwork, and character cells

Life in the cellular generation and phenotyping labs at the Sanger Institute.

18 Sep 2020

Fire on Wellcome Genome Campus detected and extinguished quickly

The fire was contained to one room and the Campus is safe and fully operational
Adobe Stock

17 Sep 2020

Future of genomic research at risk without greater public trust in how genetic data is shared

Survey finds lack of familiarity with genomics and how it can benefit society
Adobe Stock

16 Sep 2020

How Dantu blood group protects against malaria - and how all humans could benefit

Red blood cells have a higher surface tension that prevents them from being invaded by Plasmodium parasite
Annie Cavanagh (CC BY-NC 4.0)

3 Sep 2020

Genetic information can predict predisposition to blood diseases

Studies identify bulk of genetic variation that influences blood cell traits
CDC / Alissa Ecker MS; Dan Higgins, MAMS

28 Aug 2020

Unprecedented national effort by UK immunologists to search for answers on COVID-19 

Sanger Institute researchers join national research projects to investigate the role of our immune system in tackling COVID-19
Gianmarco Raddi, Wellcome Sanger Institute

27 Aug 2020

Mosquito immune system mapped to help fight malaria

Atlas will be valuable resource for understanding and controlling mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, Dengue and Zika

25 Aug 2020

Inspiring prisoners and their families with genomics

“I want to inspire kids, let them know that though they are having a really tough time now, there is light at the end of the tunnel. I want them to know they can do well, whatever happens.”

19 Aug 2020

The race to sequence SARS-CoV-2

The Sanger Institute is built for high-throughput science – but the project to sequence coronavirus demanded more samples were handled more quickly than ever before.

11 Aug 2020

Former Sanger Institute Head of Pathogens receives the 2020 Albert B. Sabin Gold Medal 

Professor Gordon Dougan awarded Sabin Vaccine Institute prize for his contributions to vaccinology

6 Aug 2020

From locked down to reaching out: re-inventing public engagement for the “new normal”

Since the Campus closed to visitors in March, staff have been finding new ways of engaging with people who want to find out more about our work.

4 Aug 2020

New podcast to provide digital mentoring tips for early career researchers

Your Digital Mentor launches with first episode on the mentoring experience

3 Aug 2020

Genomes within Genomes

Hiding in the genome of a newly-sequenced red colobus monkey, there was a second species - a parasite descended from malaria.

30 Jul 2020

New drug targets for lethal brain cancer discovered

Researchers engineered a new mouse model for studying glioblastoma, the most aggressive type of brain cancer
Yu Fu, Moritz Gerstung, Spencer Phillips

27 Jul 2020

Artificial intelligence finds patterns of mutations and survival in tumour images

AI detects patterns of 167 different mutations and predicts patient survival in 28 cancer types

27 Jul 2020

Impact of The Technician Commitment

Kelly Vere, Programme Director of the Technician Commitment, explores the progress of the scheme across the UK.

21 Jul 2020

Chronic inflammation alters the evolution of cells in the colon, study finds

Researchers have compared diseased colon with healthy tissue to better understand how inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is linked to an increased ...

17 Jul 2020

Building an inclusive culture in all we do

Launching a new Behavioural Competency Framework.

16 Jul 2020

From bacterial behaviours to COVID-19

Sushmita Sridhar has paused her work on a gastroenteritis-causing bacterium to help diagnose the virus that causes COVID-19.
Human Cell Atlas

13 Jul 2020

Explore COVID-19 science in action with new Human Cell Atlas animation

Mapping COVID-19: How the Human Cell Atlas enhances our understanding of the disease

13 Jul 2020

International Common Disease Alliance releases action plan to drive next phase of genetic understanding of common disease

Report defines priorities, proposes international collaborations to accelerate progress from genetic maps to biological mechanisms to medical treatments
AdobeStock

8 Jul 2020

Launch of virtual Sanger Seminar series

Join us for a new series of virtual seminars, open to all, which will present the latest research from the Sanger ...
AdobeStock

7 Jul 2020

Drug screens and CRISPR combine to help make better cancer drugs

Improved understanding of the biological mechanisms underpinning drug response will enable faster, more efficient drug development

2 Jul 2020

Sarah Teichmann, an international pioneer of single cell research

We spoke to the Head of Cellular Genetics at the Sanger Institute about her life, career and the Human Cell Atlas.

26 Jun 2020

The first draft human genome at 20

A revolution powering today’s advances in genomics, biology and medicine

26 Jun 2020

‘It had better be good’

We reflect on what followed the publication of the human genome sequence for the Sanger Institute, and what the future holds.

24 Jun 2020

Restarting Science

Staff are starting to return to the Wellcome Genome Campus.

18 Jun 2020

Update to DECIPHER brings power to clinical genomics

Update to rare disease database allows researchers and clinicians to input, interpret and share all types of genomic variants in all ...

16 Jun 2020

Supporting Pride Month at the Wellcome Genome Campus

We are celebrating Pride Month with virtual events, and we are pleased to have joined the Stonewall Diversity Champions programme. We believe in the power of a workplace that is equal.
Ron van der Stappen, Adobe Stock

11 Jun 2020

Denisovan DNA influences immune system of modern day Oceanian populations

Previously-unknown variations in medically-important genes will be valuable resource for the field of precision medicine

10 Jun 2020

My postdoc and my dad’s dementia

This carers week, postdoctoral fellow Lia Chappell shares her experiences.
Albert Renn, Unsplash.com

8 Jun 2020

Genomic surveillance of antibiotic resistance in the Philippines established

Bacterial resistance to last-line antibiotic mapped in the Philippines
Open Targets

8 Jun 2020

Sanger researcher wins prize from European Society for Human Genetics

Gosia Trynka awarded 2020 Leena Peltonen Prize for her outstanding research into human immune diseases

1 Jun 2020

From cancer, stem cells and organoids to COVID-19

Sanger scientists speak about their new roles in sequencing SARS-CoV-2 genomes.
Directorate General of Antiquities (Lebanon)

28 May 2020

4,000 years of contact, conflict and cultural change had little genetic impact on Near East

Only three periods had lasting effect on genetics of local people in Beirut

22 May 2020

Analysis of COVID-19 Genomes reveals large numbers of introductions to the UK in March

The data reports, published by the COVID-19 Genomics UK Consortium (COG-UK), show the value in mapping COVID-19 lineages across the UK ...
Spencer Phillips/EMBL-EBI

18 May 2020

An automated method for cell type discovery

Identifying cell types from single-cell RNA sequencing data is now more efficient than ever

18 May 2020

Honour with Athena SWAN Silver Award

The Wellcome Sanger Institute and its associated organisations have been awarded by Athena SWAN for commitment to advancing women's careers ...

18 May 2020

Potentially cancerous cells kept in check by competitive neighbours, study of oesophagus finds

Hope that understanding of the 'rules of the game' of clonal competition will lead to new therapies

18 May 2020

Welcoming Athena SWAN Silver

"We are deeply committed to our values of equality, diversity and inclusion and these are fundamental to our work."
Big T Images for Academy of Medical Sciences

13 May 2020

Sanger scientists recognised by the Academy of Medical Sciences

Six Sanger researchers – past and present – have been welcomed into Fellowship of the prestigious organisation

13 May 2020

‘These lowly organised creatures’: Earthworm sample collecting at the Sanger Institute

Few organisms have, as Darwin himself wrote, played such an important role in the history of the world.
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

7 May 2020

Sanger scientist receives Chan Zuckerberg Initiative support for COVID-19 study

Roser Vento-Tormo will use single-cell technologies to understand human immune response to SARS-CoV-2 infection and the progression of the disease
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

6 May 2020

New computational method unravels single-cell data from multiple people

Souporcell could assist personalised medicine and malaria research

4 May 2020

Prising open the scallop genome

As part of the Sanger Institute’s 25 Genomes Project, the king scallop, Pecten maximus, had its genome sequenced.

Sebastian Nevols

29 Apr 2020

Head of Cellular Genetics elected Fellow of the Royal Society

Sarah Teichmann is recognised for her pioneering computational biology and genomics work, leading to the Human Cell Atlas initiative

28 Apr 2020

New tools to tackle malaria: translating from cutting edge research to real-world applications

This World Malaria Day we look at three ambitious projects, backed by the Sanger Institute Technology Transfer Office, which are tackling areas key to eliminating malaria.

27 Apr 2020

Puzzles and Parasites

Dr Stephen Doyle, in the Sanger Institute’s Parasites and Microbes Programme, has just been awarded a new UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship to use genomic approaches at population to single cell resolution to understand how H. contortus evolves in response to drug treatments.

Wellcome Sanger Institute and UKRI

27 Apr 2020

Sanger researcher backed through flagship fellowship

Dr Stephen Doyle has been awarded a UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship to explore the evolution of drug responses in parasitic worms
Wellcome Sanger Institute

24 Apr 2020

Sanger Institute to extend funding for Postdoctoral Fellows affected by COVID-19 shutdown

Funding will be extended for six months, including for those funded by third parties
CDC / Alissa Ecker MS; Dan Higgins, MAMS

23 Apr 2020

Key nose cells identified as likely COVID-19 entry points

Study with Human Cell Atlas could help understand transmission of the virus
Luiza Moore, Wellcome Sanger Institute

22 Apr 2020

Normal human uterus is colonised by clones with cancer-driving mutations that arise early in life, study finds

Hope that insights into earliest stages of uterine cancer development will help to tackle one of most common female cancers

21 Apr 2020

Tackling COVID-19 at the Sanger Institute

Staff at the Sanger Institute have joined the fight against the global COVID-19 pandemic.
NIH, NIAID

14 Apr 2020

Experience matters for immune cells - discovery of T cells response spectrum could help understand immune diseases

Study could help find better drug targets for asthma and rheumatoid arthritis

8 Apr 2020

Mapping the Human Cell Atlas - charting the body’s cellular world

The Human Cell Atlas is being used to guide future research into human development, biology, health, and disease.

3 Apr 2020

Raising Awareness of Neurodiversity in the Scientific Workplace

In February, we welcomed Sara Rankin, Professor of Leukocyte and Stem Cell Biology at the National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, to speak to us about neurodiversity in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) workplace.

23 Mar 2020

Sanger Institute scientist wins 2021 Biochemical Society award

Roser Vento-Tormo awarded an Early Career Research Award
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

23 Mar 2020

UK launches whole genome sequence alliance to map spread of coronavirus

The Wellcome Sanger Institute will collaborate with expert groups across the country to analyse the genetic code of COVID-19 samples circulating ...

20 Mar 2020

Sanger Institute and Wellcome Genome Campus temporarily closed to all but critical research

In response to the rapidly changing COVID-19 pandemic, the Sanger Institute and its neighbours on the Wellcome Genome Campus will close ...
Matt Midgley

19 Mar 2020

Global human genomes reveal rich genetic diversity shaped by complex evolutionary history

Study will help identify the susceptibility of different populations to disease

19 Mar 2020

The duty of care: a genetic balancing act?

Genetic testing is becoming a standard part of UK healthcare, with plans to expand its use. But who does this information belong to, and who decides who it is shared with?
Bayraktar lab, Wellcome Sanger Institute and Rowitch lab, University of Cambridge

16 Mar 2020

New research on brain structure highlights cells linked to Alzheimer’s and autism

Astrocytes organised into layers in similar way to neurons

13 Mar 2020

Being an LGBT+ Ally and Supporting Diversity

Jim Smith joined us at the Wellcome Genome Campus last year as part of the LGBT+ Network and Equality in Science talk series.

9 Mar 2020

Dinosaurs and the high seas

Eugene Gardner is a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Human Genetics Programme. His research focuses on the genetics of developmental disorders.
Wellcome Genome Campus

6 Mar 2020

Equality and Diversity Champions celebrated at the Wellcome Genome Campus

Winners of the Best Practice Awards are announced for International Women’s Day
Sanger Institute

20 Feb 2020

Origins of immune system mapped, opening doors for new cancer immunotherapies

Cell atlas of human thymus could help engineer improved therapeutic T cells
Adobe Stock

19 Feb 2020

Otter genome to help understand genetic legacy of pollution crisis and secure species’ future

Genome will unlock wealth of data stored in DNA archives in bid to understand response to environmental changes
SciePro, Adobe Stock

17 Feb 2020

Gut bacteria’s interactions with immune system mapped

Cell atlas could reveal why some gut diseases affect specific areas

16 Feb 2020

Cancer across the animal kingdom

Cancer, ageing and somatic mutation rates across species.

16 Feb 2020

Sepsis and precision medicine: is it all in your genes?

Using gene expression data to stratify patients.

15 Feb 2020

Sequencing and the Tree of Life

Progress and promise of the Earth Biogenome Project - a mission to sequence all known eukaryotic species.

11 Feb 2020

The Human Cell Atlas: Understanding health to combat disease

Dr Kerstin Meyer, Principal Staff Scientist at the Sanger Institute, explains what it’s like to work on a such a huge, collaborative endeavour

5 Feb 2020

Background information about the ICGC/TCGA Pan-Cancer Project

Overview of the Pan-Cancer Project

5 Feb 2020

Cancer-causing culprits will be caught by their DNA fingerprints

Study within Pan-Cancer Project will help research into cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatments
Anne Weston, Francis Crick Institute

5 Feb 2020

Comprehensive study finds mutations in non-coding genome are infrequent drivers of cancer

Findings suggest efforts to develop new cancer treatments should primarily focus on protein-coding genes

5 Feb 2020

Genomics in the cloud

The huge, international Pan-Cancer project is the first large-scale use of distributed cloud computing in genomics. As genomics becomes a big data science, it is likely to be the first of many

5 Feb 2020

Unprecedented exploration generates most comprehensive map of cancer genomes charted to date

Pan-Cancer Project discovers causes of previously unexplained cancers, pinpoints cancer-causing events and zeroes in on mechanisms of development

4 Feb 2020

Red and grey squirrel genomes could hold the key to the survival of reds in Britain and Ireland

Susceptibility to squirrel pox and genetic fitness of fragmented populations are key questions for red squirrel researchers

3 Feb 2020

Tailor-made vaccines could almost halve rates of serious bacterial disease

Innovative study points the way to more effective vaccine design

31 Jan 2020

Statement on Brexit by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) and the Francis Crick Institute

Statement on Brexit
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

29 Jan 2020

Never too late to quit: protective cells could cut risk of lung cancer for ex-smokers

Ex-smokers have four times more genetically healthy cells than smokers, helping to protect them against lung cancer

10 Jan 2020

2020 vision: supporting the people behind our science

Read about our ongoing and upcoming work to ensure that all our staff and students from all backgrounds can thrive

5 Jan 2020

“If you know, there is a Nobel prize for you!” – Searching for the causes of cancer in Czechia

In a study spanning five continents, researchers are hunting for tell-tale ‘signatures’ left in DNA by the unknown causes of cancer.

24 Dec 2019

#SangerAdvent

For our advent calendar on Twitter, this year we celebrated our staff from around the world. Each day, someone told us how they celebrate the festive period in their home country.
Adobe Stock

20 Dec 2019

Analysis of CRISPR-Cas9 datasets leads to largest genetic screen resource for cancer research

Study will help narrow down the list of targets for the next generation of cancer treatments

16 Dec 2019

Dr Konstantinos Tzelepis receives ASH–BSH Abstract Achievement Award for leukaemia target research

Award-winning abstract on METTL3 presented at American Society of Hematology meeting
Wellcome Sanger Institute:Genome Research Ltd

16 Dec 2019

Researchers identify over 140 genes linked to immune system regulation

First extensive immune profiling of mice reveals a vast catalogue of genes that regulate the immune system and model human disease

9 Dec 2019

Appointments and changes to the Genome Research Limited Board

At the GRL Board meeting on 2 December 2019, David Willetts announced his intention to step down as Chair because of ...

5 Dec 2019

Researchers identify new possibilities for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease

Two molecular pathways found to be integral to maintaining balance in the digestive system

5 Dec 2019

Root of childhood kidney cancer discovered

Pre-cancerous signatures found in healthy tissue point the way towards new treatment options

3 Dec 2019

Causality and the genetic thesaurus

Manuel Tardaguila is a postdoctoral research scientist in Nicole Soranzo’s group. The group focuses on the application of large-scale genomic analysis to unravel the spectrum of human genetic variation associated with cardiometabolic diseases.

25 Nov 2019

Best of both worlds

A degree apprenticeship offers the opportunity to earn whilst studying.
Jooney Woodward, Wellcome CC-BY

19 Nov 2019

From childhood cancer to mapping human development: Pioneering scientist awarded 2019 Foulkes Foundation medal

Congratulations to Professor Muzlifah Haniffa, who has been recognised for her work on the immune system and childhood cancer

18 Nov 2019

Dr Sam Behjati wins Liddy Shriver Early Career Research Award

Congratulations to Sanger Institute cancer researcher, Dr Sam Behjati, who has been recognised for his work in sarcoma cancer genomics
University of Bern

14 Nov 2019

New malaria drug targets identified in liver stage of life cycle

Hope that new liver-stage drugs will help to counter the threat of antimicrobial resistance to current blood-stage medicines

8 Nov 2019

Ambitious project to map genomes of all life on British Isles funded by Wellcome

An unprecedented insight to the diverse range of species on the British Isles will be made possible by Wellcome funding to ...
CDC/ Molly Kurnit, M.P.H.

31 Oct 2019

Measles infection wipes our immune system's memory, leaving us vulnerable to other diseases

Research explains why children often catch other infections after measles, and highlights the importance of vaccination

31 Oct 2019

Perfume, jazz and immunogenetics

Dr Velislava Petrova is a Postdoctoral Fellow working in immunogenetics in Dr Carl Anderson’s group at the Sanger Institute. Currently she is working at the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Office of Innovation in Geneva

28 Oct 2019

Scientists to Create a “Gut Cell Atlas” With Funding from the Helmsley Charitable Trust

Researchers will examine both healthy and diseased intestinal tissue to identify key cell types involved in Crohn’s disease
Nephron, Wikimedia Commons

23 Oct 2019

Accumulation of DNA mutations found in healthy liver leads to disease

Largest study of its kind seeks to better understand how liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma develop

23 Oct 2019

Uncovering the pathway to colon cancer

Scientists identify patterns of genetic changes in healthy colon tissue, giving insight into the very earliest stages of cancer
Adobe Stock

15 Oct 2019

Resurrection of over 50,000-year-old gene reveals how malaria parasite jumped from gorillas to humans

Discovery of molecular pathway is valuable example of how a pathogen can switch from one host species to another

15 Oct 2019

Sanger Institute refutes allegations of misuse of African DNA data from partner institutions

Two investigations by two separate experts found that no wrongdoing took place

14 Oct 2019

Science on a bike

One man, one bike, and lots of genomics.

Pixabay

11 Oct 2019

Jumping genes can cause rare developmental disorders in children

Diagnoses achieved for three more children in the Deciphering Developmental Disorders project
Newcastle University

9 Oct 2019

First cell map of developing human liver reveals how blood and immune systems develop

Resource improves understanding of normal development and will support efforts to tackle diseases, such as leukaemia, that can form during early ...
Neil Henderson, University of Edinburgh

9 Oct 2019

Fresh insights could lead to new treatments for liver disease

The fight against liver disease could be helped by the discovery of cells that cause liver scarring

8 Oct 2019

Pioneering Computer Science: Celebrating Ada Lovelace Day and the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering and maths

Ada Lovelace Day celebrates women in Science Technology Engineering and Maths (STEM). In honour of the day, we asked some of our software developers and bioinformaticians to tell us about women who have inspired them in their own work. Here are some of their suggestions.

8 Oct 2019

Sanger Institute cancer researcher’s innovation recognised

Congratulations to Dr Mathew Garnett who has received a National Cancer Research Institute Excellence Award for his research into the use ...

3 Oct 2019

A dangerous new Salmonella strain is emerging in sub-Saharan Africa

Researchers have discovered the first extensively drug resistant non-typhoidal Salmonella in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Menna Clatworthy, University of Cambridge

26 Sep 2019

Human kidney map charts our growing immune defence

New cell atlas reveals immune cells present in zones of human kidney

25 Sep 2019

The biology of the brain

Studying mouse brain development can give insights into human neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders, as well as help diagnose rare genetic conditions
Shutterstock

23 Sep 2019

Scientists hone in on DNA differences behind immune diseases

Search could help find drug targets for developing new treatments
Dave Goulding, Wellcome Sanger Institute

19 Sep 2019

Salmonella responsible for bloodstream infections in central Africa resistant to nearly all drugs

Strain of dangerous pathogen shown to have developed resistance to last-line-of-defence drug

18 Sep 2019

Babies' gut bacteria affected by delivery method, Baby Biome project shows

Vaginal delivery promotes mother's gut bacteria in baby's gut

18 Sep 2019

Health implications of the baby biome?

The method of a baby’s birth affects its collection of gut microbes – its microbiome. But we still don’t know if that has any long-term effects on health

16 Sep 2019

Coding the Future

You’re never too young to start learning about DNA sequencing, software development and 3D printing.

11 Sep 2019

500,000 whole human genomes will be a game-changer for research into human diseases

Following on from a successful pilot at the Sanger Institute, we are leading a project to sequence the genomes of all ...

11 Sep 2019

Powering discovery in blood disorders and depression

The wealth of information available to researchers through UK Biobank is powering studies into human health and disease

5 Sep 2019

Brown trout genome will help explain species' genetic superpowers

Eagerly awaited reference genome will allow conservationists to understand how the fish adapts to marine and freshwater environments

5 Sep 2019

Fishing for answers in the brown trout genome

Brown trout are highly adaptable and its genetic make up may hold key answers to helping species survive climate change

4 Sep 2019

LifeLab 2019 – discovery on your doorstep with an exciting programme of free events and activities

LifeLab has launched an exciting programme of events for Friday 27 and Saturday 28 September 2019, transforming parts of Cambridge, Peterborough ...

30 Aug 2019

Flying to the Future

Dr Sophie Adjalley is a Postdoctoral Fellow in Marcus Lee's research group at the Wellcome Sanger Institute. Her research focuses on investigating the underlying mechanisms of malaria.

28 Aug 2019

Decoding first of 60,000 British species as Darwin Tree of Life branches out

The mission to map the genetic code of all known British species is underway

22 Aug 2019

Malaria Cell Atlas: mapping a murderous parasite's life cycle

Malaria - and the parasite that causes it - is complicated. Not only does the single-celled parasite move between humans and mosquitoes, but it exists in different forms, each with different shapes and functions. Researchers have now mapped out its life cycle in more detail than ever before.
William Brieger, Jhpiego

22 Aug 2019

Malaria control success in Africa at risk from spread of multi-drug resistance

Regional populations of Plasmodium falciparum parasites in Africa are sharing genetic material in all directions – including genes that can confer resistance ...
Alex Cagan

22 Aug 2019

Map of malaria behaviour set to revolutionise research

The Malaria Cell Atlas gives the highest resolution view of malaria parasite gene expression to date and monitors how individual parasites ...

16 Aug 2019

A lasting legacy

Meet the next generation of genomic scientists who are benefiting from our founder's generosity

12 Aug 2019

Diarrhoea-causing bacteria adapted to spread in hospitals

Gut-infecting bacterium Clostridium difficile is evolving into two separate species, with one group highly adapted to spread in hospitals

8 Aug 2019

The modern rise of an ancient disease

Sanger scientists have sequenced the largest number of Treponema pallidum bacterial genomes to date. The bacterium causes syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease that is making a comeback. Their findings show us how the bacteria have evolved over time and developed resistance to antibiotics.

2 Aug 2019

Vaccines: Life savers against infectious diseases

Smallpox has been stamped out and various other diseases are declining, thanks to vaccination. But not all diseases have vaccines yet – can genomics help speed up the search?

29 Jul 2019

Hospitals key in the spread of extremely drug resistant bacteria in Europe

Research emphasises importance of ongoing genomic surveillance and infection control

29 Jul 2019

Outbreaks and Antibiotic Resistance

Sophia David talks about her life as a postdoctoral researcher at the Sanger Institute.

25 Jul 2019

Cancer drug data release set to power next wave of therapeutic discovery

Unique data comparing almost 1,000 cancer cell lines’ responses to 453 licensed and experimental drugs is now freely available to ...

23 Jul 2019

Sanger Institute researcher, Henry Lee-Six, wins Dr Falk Pharma/Guts UK essay prize

Medical student working in the Cancer Genome Project wins prize for colon cancer research

22 Jul 2019

2019 Chief Medical Officer’s Report published

Sanger Institute researchers contribute to Professor Dame Sally Davies' eleventh annual report
Chanaki Amaratunga

22 Jul 2019

Multi-drug resistant malaria spreading in Asia

Study reveals importance of ongoing genomic surveillance for malaria control strategies
Wellcome Sanger Institute

18 Jul 2019

Low doses of radiation promote cancer-capable cells

New research in mice helps to understand the risks around exposure to low doses of radiation, such as CT scans and ...

17 Jul 2019

COSMIC: setting the path for tomorrow’s cancer treatments

From gene discovery, to database, to cancer treatment. COSMIC celebrates 15 years of fuelling cancer research.

9 Jul 2019

Cancer, Caveman and Art

Thoughts on life as a postdoctoral researcher, combining science and art.

3 Jul 2019

DECIPHER: Fuelling Rare Disease Research

More than 15 years ago, a hospital doctor realised that bringing people’s genetic data together could provide answers for families affected by rare diseases. With the help of the Sanger Institute, the DECIPHER project has been helping families ever since

27 Jun 2019

Connecting With Science

Staff at the Wellcome Genome Campus are supported to connect people with their science - find out more

25 Jun 2019

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative boosts Human Cell Atlas research at the Sanger Institute

Seed Networks projects will focus on specific tissues, such as the thymus, lung, liver, kidney and immune system
David Goulding, Wellcome Sanger Institute

24 Jun 2019

Widely-available antibiotics could be used in the treatment of ‘superbug’ MRSA

Genomic analysis shows that a significant number of strains are susceptible to penicillin combined with clavulanic acid

20 Jun 2019

Melanoma, Personalised Medicine and the Middle Ages

Saskia Rudat talks about her life as a postdoctoral researcher at the Sanger Institute.
Professor Wim Timens, UMCG

17 Jun 2019

First lung map uncovers new insights into asthma

Understanding lung cells and their signals could help towards finding new asthma drug targets

17 Jun 2019

What if medicine could be tailored 'just for you'?

The information in our genomes is helping doctors diagnose and treat disease. But how far can personalised medicine go?

12 Jun 2019

Tracking a deadly shapeshifter

A global child killer constantly changes its coat to evade destruction, but a worldwide network of scientists is using genetics to get one step ahead.

11 Jun 2019

Sanger Institute researcher honoured by EMBO

Professor Nicole Soranzo becomes an elected member of the European Molecular Biology Organization

10 Jun 2019

Pneumonia mapped in largest genomic survey of any disease-causing bacterium

Study will help predict strains important for new vaccines

6 Jun 2019

Breaking the mould – the story of penicillin

From a contaminated dish in London to saving lives on the D-Day beaches of Normandy (via dedicated scientists in Oxford and Peoria), pencillin has saved many millions of lives

3 Jun 2019

Day in the life: Software Developer - making research happen

Meet the people building software to enable high-throughput genomics at the Sanger Institute.

3 Jun 2019

Major stem cell discovery to boost research into development and regenerative medicine

Expanded Potential Stem Cell lines of pig and human cells established

30 May 2019

Equality and Diversity – not just about fairness

We've come a long way, but the journey isn't finished yet…

28 May 2019

We've got the power

Running one of the largest biosciences data centres in Europe as efficiently as possible requires cool heads and even cooler machines
CDC/PHIL

27 May 2019

Global Strep A vaccine one step closer

Streptococcus genomes reveal potential vaccine targets present in over 20 countries worldwide

23 May 2019

Infectious diseases make a comeback in Venezuela following healthcare crisis

The experiences of a friend of a Sanger Institute researcher reveal how parasites and bacteria are now threatening the country's population

16 May 2019

CRISPR catches out critical cancer changes

Researchers reveal which gene fusions are critical for the growth of cancer cells and identify a new drug target for multiple ...

16 May 2019

Sanger Institute animal research facility to close

Following a full review, the Sanger Institute will be closing its animal research facility

15 May 2019

Caring for children with cancer

We explore the world of award-winning cancer scientist, Dr Sam Behjati
Wellcome Sanger Institute

15 May 2019

Honouring research excellence: Dr Sam Behjati wins award for work to unravel the identity and origin of childhood cancers

The 2019 recipient of the Dr Simon Newell Early Career Investigator Award has been announced as Dr Sam Behjati, whose career ...

8 May 2019

Lead cancer researcher elected to Academy of Medical Sciences

Dr Peter Campbell receives prestigious Fellowship for his work in cancer genomics

1 May 2019

Sanger's super-sized sequencing scales new heights

We're celebrating: we've just read the same amount of DNA in one year as we achieved in the previous 25 years combined. This dizzying speed offers unprecedented possibilities to unlock new understanding in health and disease

24 Apr 2019

More than just malaria

Researchers can change children's futures in many more ways than just helping to beat a killer disease...

18 Apr 2019

Crusaders made love and war, genetic study finds

Sanger Institute researchers have produced whole-genome sequences from skeletons discovered in a 13th Century burial pit in Sidon, Lebanon

18 Apr 2019

Rare genetic change provides clues to pancreas development

Understanding pancreas formation could aid research into type 1 diabetes treatments

17 Apr 2019

Head of Human Genetics elected Fellow of the Royal Society

Matthew Hurles is recognised for his pioneering work in identifying the genetic basis of undiagnosed developmental disorders and paving the way ...

12 Apr 2019

Six surprising animal cancer facts

Some creatures never get cancer, while others can catch it from the sea. Find out more in our list of things you never knew about cancer in the wild

11 Apr 2019

Mice reveal 38 new genes involved in hearing loss

Molecular pathways revealed could identify potential drug targets for restoring hearing

10 Apr 2019

Cracking cancer with CRISPR

How Sanger scientists are using genetic surgery to understand the blueprint of life
Imperial War Museums (Wikimedia Commons)

10 Apr 2019

Genetic code of WWI soldier's cholera mapped

The bacterium was isolated from a British soldier and stored for over 100 years before being revived and sequenced

10 Apr 2019

New cancer drug targets accelerate path to precision medicine

Researchers discovered thousands of genes essential for cancer’s survival and ranked which ones show the most promise as drug targets ...

29 Mar 2019

CRAM-ming it in

An impending flood of genomic data threatens to overwhelm scientists' abilities to store and share it. Next-generation compression seeks to CRAM it all in

28 Mar 2019

Sanger Institute scientist wins 2020 Biochemical Society award

Head of Cellular Genetics Programme wins GlaxoSmithKline prize

25 Mar 2019

Tea-time News

Hot tea has been linked to oesophageal cancer - but it's not clear if it's the cause. Studying DNA changes will help researchers find out.

21 Mar 2019

Darwin Tree of Life sets down roots

Planning for the Darwin Tree of Life Project is underway. We welcome Professor Mark Blaxter, from the University of Edinburgh, who ...

21 Mar 2019

Glass: The Poetry of Science

Dr Kate Carruthers Thomas explores gender in the workplace through the poetry of the Glass Ceiling, Glass Escalator, Glass Cliff and Glass Closet

14 Mar 2019

Catching pneumonia with caterpillars

Using caterpillars to investigate how human pneumonia works.

14 Mar 2019

Commitment to collaborate on using genomics for pathogen surveillance across Europe

Combining the strengths of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, the Wellcome Sanger Institute and the Centre for Genomic ...

8 Mar 2019

A Day in the Life: Bioinformatician - collaboration, cancer and all life on Earth

Understanding the nature of life on Earth has been revolutionised by DNA sequencing. In the past we could only observe what was happening, now we can read (and alter) the blueprints of life to understand health and disease at the most intimate level. Yet none of this would be possible without the unsung work of bioinformaticians

8 Mar 2019

Champions of equality and diversity celebrated

The winners were nominated by staff working at the Wellcome Genome Campus for their actions to advance equality, diversity and inclusion, ...
Annie Cavanagh, Wellcome Images and Photoroyalty, freepik.com

7 Mar 2019

Major mutation pattern in cancer occurs in bursts

New resource could help understand origins of cancer

5 Mar 2019

Cambridge heart research boosted by £6 million British Heart Foundation Research Excellence Award

Funding will allow Sanger Institute researchers and collaborators to apply cutting-edge genomics to help develop new heart disease diagnostics and treatments

4 Mar 2019

Getting smart about artificial intelligence

Sanger researchers are harnessing the power of AI to extract new knowledge from the ever increasing flood of genomic data. The findings could transform medicine and biological understanding.

4 Mar 2019

Roser Vento-Tormo leads single-cell research team at the Sanger Institute

The new group will identify the cells involved in the human female reproductive system, how they work, organise and communicate with ...

27 Feb 2019

Improving global surveillance of antibiotic resistance

A WHO Technical Note has been published that will enable health authorities to make informed choices on the most appropriate molecular ...

20 Feb 2019

Establishing the molecular blueprint of early embryo development

By studying the genetic activity of 116,312 single cells from 6.5 to 8.5 days after fertilisation, researchers have ...

12 Feb 2019

Cancer comparison across species highlights new drug target

Scientists discover key genes for mucosal melanoma in humans, dogs and horses that help prioritise targets for new cancer therapies

11 Feb 2019

Almost 2,000 unknown bacteria discovered in the human gut

Researchers identify novel gut bacteria species and call for more data from beyond Europe and North America

11 Feb 2019

I've never had chickenpox, what's your superpower?

Gary Dillon, Business Development Manager at the Sanger Institute gives us his view on some of the powers and pitfalls of genomics.

11 Feb 2019

Sanger Institute steps up commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Science

The Institute has joined a new coalition to remove biases in all aspects of life science research, including staff, experiment design, ...
Peter Lane and Fiona McConnell, Wellcome Images

5 Feb 2019

Study reveals how immune cells target different tissues

Tissue-specific receptors and adaptations enable localisation of T regulatory cells
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

4 Feb 2019

100 cancer organoid models developed by Sanger Institute scientists

The organoids developed by the Sanger Institute lead the UK effort as part of the international Human Cancer Model Initiative (HCMI) ...
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

4 Feb 2019

More than 100 new gut bacteria discovered in human microbiome

Study will help understand role of microbiome in health and disease

4 Feb 2019

The weird and wonderful world of organoids

Mini organs grown in the lab are boosting cancer research and drug discovery.
Dr Wolfgang Moroder, Wikimedia commons

31 Jan 2019

Genetic testing gives answers on developmental disorders during pregnancy

Researchers identified new diagnoses of known genetic disorders for 52 of the 610 pregnancies they genome sequenced
Dave Goulding, Wellcome Sanger Institute

31 Jan 2019

Immune master regulator orchestrates responses to parasite infection

Receptor IL-10R is vital to coordinating the body's immune response to whipworms, preventing uncontrolled infection and gut lining damage

30 Jan 2019

GARFIELD classifies disease-relevant changes in the genome

New approach reveals role of genomic changes in a disease, both within and outside genes

30 Jan 2019

Genetic Disability, Experience and the Sorting Society

Our genetic information is more accessible to us than ever before. But what do we want to know? Dr Felicity Boardman discusses the issues around genetic disability, screening and society.

James Gathany, CDC PHIL

29 Jan 2019

Huge step forward in decoding genomes of small species

Scientists from the Wellcome Sanger Institute and Pacific Biosciences use just ‘half a mosquito-worth’ of DNA to produce a whole, high ...

23 Jan 2019

Ian Dunham appointed as Open Targets Director

Open Targets is the public-private partnership on the Wellcome Genome Campus that aims to transform drug discovery through the systematic identification ...
National Institutes of Health

21 Jan 2019

Genetic study reveals possible new routes to treating osteoarthritis

Scientists discover new genes and biological pathways linked to osteoarthritis, which could help identify starting points for new medicines

18 Jan 2019

The importance of public engagement on antibiotic resistance

Nicole Wheeler talks antibiotics, antibiotic resistance and public engagement - and letting people use real software on real data to track antibiotic resistance around the world

17 Jan 2019

Developing a view on Brexit

Sarion Bowers, Policy Lead at the Sanger Institute, reflects on how Brexit will affect science.

14 Jan 2019

Disability, Inclusion and Science

Distinguished disability rights campaigner, David Ruebain, joined us last month at the Wellcome Genome Campus. He spoke on disability and inclusion in science, as part of the campus Equality in Science event series.

NIAID

10 Jan 2019

CRISPR study reveals new immune system regulators

Map of T cell regulation could aid development of drugs that could activate the immune system
Dave Goulding, Wellcome Sanger Institute

2 Jan 2019

Mystery of Yemen cholera epidemic solved

Bacteria's genomes reveal that the most likely source of the disease came from Eastern Africa and entered Yemen with the ...

2 Jan 2019

Science in a conflict zone: Investigating cholera in Yemen

In addition to the civil war, Yemen is experiencing the worst epidemic of cholera ever recorded. We spoke to Ankur Rakesh, a volunteer doctor with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) / Doctors Without Borders, who travelled to Yemen in July 2017 to study the genomics of this highly infectious and deadly disease
Wikimedia Commons

21 Dec 2018

Bird migration and conservation clues in robin and Turtle dove genomes

The genomes were read by the Sanger Institute and its partners, in celebration of Sanger’s 25th anniversary

21 Dec 2018

Statement from GRL Board accepting the findings of the independent investigation into a whistleblowing claim

Genome Research Limited Chair and Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute outline steps the Institute will put in place to improve ...

20 Dec 2018

Human genome editing - the issues explored

Hayley Clissold from the Sanger Institute's policy team team explores the issues surrounding gene editing and human embryos

19 Dec 2018

From eye drops to potential leukaemia treatment

Ingredient in pre-clinical treatment for retinal neovascular disease targets gene associated with acute myeloid leukaemia

18 Dec 2018

Hasta la VISA, genomes!

From ragworts that are too common and the tricky toughness of truffles to the trials of getting DNA samples a US Visa, Dan Mead gives his personal reflections on project managing the 25 Genomes Project

17 Dec 2018

New strains of hepatitis C found in Africa

Study could inform hepatitis C treatment and vaccine development worldwide

11 Dec 2018

Scientific Evidence in Policy Making

Evidence is a vital part of policy-making - but it's by no means the only part. We look at how scientists can get involved and make a difference.

7 Dec 2018

Chernobyl: chasing a ‘catching’ cancer

Sanger researcher Alex Cagan travelled to Chernobyl’s nuclear exclusion zone for samples of cancer. But he isn’t investigating the effects of the reactor disaster; his quarry has a more ancient source: the immortal cells of an 8,000 year-old animal that are still being passed from dog to dog

6 Dec 2018

Claims of genome edited babies shock the world

Our Policy Lead, Sarion Bowers, explores the extraordinary claims that the world’s first genome edited babies have been born.

Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

6 Dec 2018

Sanger’s cloud computing wins award

High performance computing community recognises pioneering work of Sanger’s scientific IT teams

29 Nov 2018

Human Embryo Editing: science fiction or science fact?

Anna Middleton, Head of the Society and Ethics research group at Wellcome Genome Campus Connecting Science, reports on Prof He Jiankiu's unverified announcement of gene editing the first human embryos that have been born

29 Nov 2018

Wellcome Genome Campus wins silver watermark to recognise its support for public engagement

Award reflects work to nurture a culture where public engagement is supported and encouraged
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

27 Nov 2018

Largest study of CRISPR-Cas9 mutations creates prediction tool for gene editing

Prediction resource could make CRISPR-Cas9 editing more reliable

14 Nov 2018

Dr Cordelia Langford wins BioBeat award

The ‘50 Movers and Shakers in BioBusiness 2018’ report identifies outstanding women who are developing revolutionary bioscience. Dr Cordelia Langford, Director of Scientific Operations at the Wellcome Sanger Institute is celebrated in the collaboration category. Ahead of the BioBeat 2018 conference, we spoke to Cordelia about her career and her role as a leading woman in science

14 Nov 2018

Human cell atlas study reveals how the maternal immune system is modified early in pregnancy

Cell map of healthy pregnancy could also help understand miscarriages or preeclampsia

12 Nov 2018

Darwin Tree of Life: focusing on fungi and probing plants

We have much to thank fungi and plants for, and the Darwin Tree of Life project will help us to unlock even more of their secrets to improve modern life

9 Nov 2018

Science as a human right

The idea that we should benefit from scientific advancement is something we may never have thought of as human right, yet the Universal Declaration of Human Rights firmly makes the case that it is everyone's right, regardless of education, wealth or background, explains Sarion Bowers

8 Nov 2018

Recessive genes explain only small fraction of undiagnosed developmental disorders

Study will guide research and help estimate risk for future pregnancies

5 Nov 2018

Largest parasitic worm genetic study hatches novel treatment possibilities

Study helps understand how parasitic worms cause disease and uncovers potential new de-worming drugs

1 Nov 2018

Genetic code of 60,000 UK species to be sequenced

The Darwin Tree of Life Project, led by the Wellcome Sanger Institute, plans to read the genomes all known species of ...

1 Nov 2018

Launch of global effort to read genetic code of all complex life on earth

The project aims to create a new foundation for biology to drive solutions for preserving biodiversity and sustaining human societies

1 Nov 2018

Sequencing All Life On Earth – Facts and Figures

Scientists have announced an ambitious goal to sequence all of life on earth. Here are 10 top facts that help to put the scale of the challenge into perspective…

1 Nov 2018

The quest to sequence all life

What will reading the genomes of all life on earth uncover? And how does the Sanger Institute intend to lead the sequencing of an estimated 60,000 species in the UK? Associate Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute Julia Wilson talks about this ambitious project

30 Oct 2018

Result of independent investigation into whistleblowing allegations released

Independent barrister's report concludes that no wrongdoing took place, but that Institute procedures could be improved

29 Oct 2018

Long live bats

The bat genome sequence could help us understand how these remarkable creatures are are reisitant to cancer, Ebola and SARS.

29 Oct 2018

Sanofi joins Open Targets

Unique public-private consortium to identify and prioritise therapeutic targets for new medicines using genomics, bioinformatics and traditional pharmaceutical research gains a ...

24 Oct 2018

Largest census of cancer genes to help understand drug targets

Cancer Gene Census paves the way for improvements in personalised medicine

24 Oct 2018

Study reveals how gene activity shapes immunity across species

More than 250,000 single cells studied to chart evolution of antiviral and antibacterial immunity

18 Oct 2018

Mutant cells colonise our tissues over our lifetime

Scientists may need to rethink the role of some cancer genes in the light of sequencing normal tissues

16 Oct 2018

Milestone reached in major developmental disorders project

Eight years after launch, the Deciphering Developmental Disorders project has identified 49 completely new disorders and provided diagnoses to 4,500 ...

16 Oct 2018

Solving the mysteries of developmental disorders: The DDD study

How one family have been helped by the Deciphering Developmental Disorders study

10 Oct 2018

Genetics allows personalised disease predictions for chronic blood cancers

The approach could help doctors identify which patients may benefit from specific treatments or clinical trials

4 Oct 2018

10 surprises from sequencing 25 new species

From exploding worms to cannibal crickets and adored arachnids to bewildering blackberries, Alison Cranage picks out the more bizarre discoveries we've made

4 Oct 2018

25 Genomes: The Common Starfish

The Starfish genome could offer new approaches to wound healing and into surgical glue, if only we can get enough sperm.

4 Oct 2018

25 UK species' genomes sequenced for first time

The high-quality genomes will be made freely available to scientists to use in their research

1 Oct 2018

25 years of pushing the scientific boundaries

From one human genome to hundreds of thousands, to every single cell in the body, to the genome of every species on the planet – DNA sequencing is accelerating. On our 25th anniversary we look at the evolution, application and potential of this powerful science.

1 Oct 2018

Journey to precision cancer treatment takes off with new passports tool

Cell Model Passports website offers 'one-stop shop' of information about cancer cell models covering their genetics, clinical history and drug sensitivities, ...

1 Oct 2018

Newly sequenced mouse genomes unearth unknown genes

Sixteen newly sequenced mouse strains reveal unexpected diversity that could impact disease research

27 Sep 2018

Skin is a battlefield for mutations

Our skin is a microcosm of Darwinian evolution where only the cells with the most useful characteristics survive

26 Sep 2018

Rare genetic disorders more complex than thought

Study reveals that common genetic variants could affect the risk of rare developmental disorders

25 Sep 2018

25 Genomes at New Scientist Live

Alongside robots, slime and VR machines, Sanger researchers were at New Scientist Live last week – talking genomes, Alison Cranage reports

21 Sep 2018

Building capacity for genomic surveillance of malaria mosquitoes in Africa

Funding from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation will enable the Pan African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) to launch nine new projects for mosquito genomics researchers across Africa. The Sanger Institute will sequence 500 mosquito genomes from each study. The deadline for research applications is 3 October 2018

19 Sep 2018

Wellcome Sanger Institute at 25: how the genomic revolution is changing medicine

Leaps forward in knowledge have allowed scientists and doctors to start to bringing advances out of the lab and into the ...

17 Sep 2018

The Beast from the East? Vespa velutina

14 Sep 2018

LifeLab - Free events highlight discovery on your doorstep

Events include pop-up labs, a puppet show with a difference, story-telling and retro gameshows

13 Sep 2018

International Vertebrate Genomes Project releases first 15 high-quality reference genomes

Publicly available data will impact studies on life, disease, and conservation efforts

5 Sep 2018

Family tree of blood production reveals hundreds of thousands of stem cells

Humans have 10 times more blood-making stem cells than previously thought

3 Sep 2018

Regulator protein key to malaria parasite’s lifecycle

Discovery of AP2-G master switch could help find new ways to prevent malaria

3 Sep 2018

The golden eagle genome has landed

The golden eagle genome is the first sequence completed as part of the 25 Genomes Project. Kat Arney talks to Rob Ogden about how this will help conservationists protect and manage these fabulous birds.

31 Aug 2018

Newly sequenced golden eagle genome will help its conservation

The golden eagle is the first of 25 UK species to be completed as part of the 25 Genomes Project

30 Aug 2018

Children’s bone cancers could remain hidden for years before diagnosis

Complex genetic rearrangements found in many Ewing sarcomas could help inform diagnosis and treatment

9 Aug 2018

Human Cell Atlas gets a boost with first funding from Wellcome

Injection of £7 million will help to create a cellular 'Google map' of the human body, which could revolutionise health and ...
Menna Clatworthy, University of Cambridge

9 Aug 2018

Kidney cancer's developmental source revealed

Study reveals that kidney cancers may arise from cells that haven't fully developed, offering a new target for treatment

30 Jul 2018

Explore nature's genetic secrets in new exhibition

Curious Nature exhibition explores the Wellcome Sanger Institute’s 25th anniversary project to sequence the genomes of 25 UK species for ...
Amanda Kerr on Unsplash.com

23 Jul 2018

Gene study pinpoints superbug link between people and animals

The research could help with designing more effective ways to prevent bacterial transfer in farms and better antibiotic practices

23 Jul 2018

Omer Bayraktar to lead new research group in the Cellular Genetics Programme

The Faculty appointment, starting in August 2018, will develop high-throughput pipelines to map human tissues one cell at a time

16 Jul 2018

Genome damage from CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing higher than thought

Caution required for using CRISPR/Cas9 in potential gene therapies

9 Jul 2018

Roots of leukaemia reveal possibility of predicting people at risk

Mutations in blood identify individuals at high risk of developing leukaemia
Conor Ashleigh for AusAID, flickr

25 Jun 2018

Cholera spread tracked at household level

The results could be used by public health officials to improve cholera control strategies

20 Jun 2018

A new deal on data – articulating the contract between science and people

Now is the time for scientists to strike a deal everyone that benefits society as well as research, argue Anna Middleton, Vivienne Parry and Julian Borra

19 Jun 2018

Wellcome Sanger Institute calls for the free movement of scientists across European borders following Brexit

The Institute has provided evidence for the UK Government Science and Technology Committee’s inquiry into an immigration system that works ...

18 Jun 2018

Genomics offers new treatment options for infants with range of soft tissue tumours

Scientists uncover the genetic changes causing a group of related infant cancers

12 Jun 2018

25 Genomes update. Yes, it’s been a while ...

More than half of the species' genomes have now been sequenced and assembled. But starfish, flatworms and truffles are a different matter, Dan Mead discovers

12 Jun 2018

Genetic discovery will help clinicians identify aggressive versus benign bone tumours

A genetic change affecting the transcription factor, FOS is specific to osteoblastoma, distinguishing it from osteosarcoma

8 Jun 2018

Cambridge LIFE LAB project wins place in Europe's largest public science event

LIFE LAB will be led by Wellcome Genome Campus Public Engagement, and delivered by a consortium including the Wellcome Sanger Institute

6 Jun 2018

Microbiotica enters into microbiome collaboration with Genentech

Sanger Institute spin out company signs strategic collaboration to apply its leading microbiome Reference Genome Database and Culture Collection to discover ...

6 Jun 2018

Wellcome Sanger Institute sequences reference genomes of 3,000 dangerous bacteria

Gonorrhoea, deadly plague and dysentery among collection of bacterial genomes now publicly available through collaboration with Pacific Biosciences
Connecting Science, Genome Research Limited

29 May 2018

New online course introduces bioinformatics to address skills gap

The free course ‘Bacterial Genomes: From DNA to protein function using bioinformatics’ was developed by researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute

21 May 2018

Deadly malaria’s evolution revealed

Study shows Plasmodium falciparum emerged earlier than thought and gives clues to how deadly parasites arise

15 May 2018

Gonorrhoea surveillance study maps antibiotic resistance across Europe

Genomic approach could help doctors monitor emerging resistance and prescribe most effective antibiotics in the future

14 May 2018

A trusty guide for exploring the complexity of cells

Single cell RNA sequencing data can be used to identify cell types. Martin Hemberg and Vladimir Kiselev explain how their new scmap method can help the Human Cell Atlas initiative by analysing this data.

14 May 2018

Sanger’s Head of Cancer, Ageing and Somatic Mutation Programme honoured by EMBO

Dr Peter Campbell becomes an elected member of the European Molecular Biology Organization

10 May 2018

Professor Nicole Soranzo and Dr David Adams elected to the Academy of Medical Sciences

Sanger researchers focusing on human genetics and cancer are recognised with prestigious Fellowships

9 May 2018

Professor Dominic Kwiatkowski joins the Fellowship of the Royal Society

Head of Sanger’s Parasites and Microbes Programme elected Fellow of the Royal Society

8 May 2018

Machine learning flags emerging pathogens

A new machine learning tool could be useful for flagging dangerous bacteria before they cause an outbreak, from hospital wards to ...

8 May 2018

On Job Satisfaction

Dan Mead is a happy man, here's why ...

7 May 2018

Leukaemia: protective role of Y chromosone gene discovered

Researchers have found that UTY, a gene on the Y chromosome, protects male mice lacking the tumour-suppressing UTX gene on the ...

3 May 2018

Celgene joins Open Targets Initiative

Celgene will expand the Initiative's collective efforts to transform drug discovery through the systematic identification and prioritisation of drug targets

3 May 2018

Deadliest human malaria parasite reveals the genomic chinks in its armour

Study reveals essential genes for Plasmodium falciparum to identify new drug targets

23 Apr 2018

The trouble with Crickets

Crickets' genomes are tricky things, just when you think you know how big they are, they just get a whole lot bigger

20 Apr 2018

Emma Davenport and Hilary Martin to lead research groups in the Human Genetics Programme

The faculty appointments, starting in Autumn 2018, will help the Sanger Institute establish foundational knowledge of how variation in DNA contributes ...

19 Apr 2018

New Sanger Institute Human Cell Atlas projects funded by the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative DAF, an advised fund of Silicon Valley Community Foundation

Projects will build computational tools to support the global Human Cell Atlas initiative to map every cell type in the body

13 Apr 2018

Advance access to data: Researchers post genetic profiles of human and mouse cells on Human Cell Atlas online portal before publication

Prior to publishing their results, researchers compile and make raw data openly accessible on the preview version of the HCA Data ...

12 Apr 2018

First seeds of kidney cancer sown in adolescence

Insights from this study present an opportunity to develop approaches for early detection and early intervention in kidney cancer

11 Apr 2018

Single cell technology and organoids reveal every bowel tumour and bowel cancer cell have unique genetic fingerprints

Study could help researchers target cancer-specific processes for cancer prevention or to develop treatments

9 Apr 2018

20 year-old mystery of malaria vaccine target solved

Discovery of human receptor for TRAP protein could help improve development of an effective malaria vaccine

6 Apr 2018

New computational method reveals where genes are expressed

06.04.18 Valentine Svensson explains how the new computational method SpacialDE interprets single-cell data to identify which genes are switched on in different locations, allowing researchers to zoom into the structures of tissues.

6 Apr 2018

Whole genome sequencing will ‘transform the research landscape for a wide range of diseases’

UK Biobank enters exciting new phase of genetics research
Alex Cagan

27 Mar 2018

Malaria Cell Atlas launched: Parasite development mapped in unprecedented detail

The Malaria Cell Atlas will allow researchers to identify weak points in the parasite’s lifecycle for intervention with drugs

27 Mar 2018

New online course launched to help doctors and nurses better understand how genomics can battle bacterial diseases

Free three week course on Bacterial Genomes: Disease Outbreaks and Antimicrobial Resistance starts on April 30th

22 Mar 2018

NUCLEUS project welcomes new consortium member: Wellcome Genome Campus in Cambridge

The ambitious HORIZON 2020 NUCLEUS project has been further strengthened by the joining of the Wellcome Genome Campus in Cambridge, UK ...

21 Mar 2018

First 'non-gene' mutations behind neurodevelopmental disorders discovered

The study is a positive step towards providing an explanation for children with undiagnosed neurodevelopmental disorders
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

21 Mar 2018

Sanger Institute opens up its life sciences leadership development courses

Five bespoke courses tailored to the needs of leaders at all levels, from new supervisors to established managers, are being offered ...
University of Edinburgh

20 Mar 2018

Switch discovered to convert blood vessels to blood stem cells during embryonic development

Findings could aid research into creating new blood cells for transplants and understanding cancer metastasis
National Institutes of Health

19 Mar 2018

New osteoarthritis genes discovered

The results could open the door to new targeted therapies for this debilitating disease in the future

14 Mar 2018

Placenta defects critical factor in prenatal deaths

Research in mice reveal genes whose roles appear to be vital in developing healthy placentas

9 Mar 2018

A cautionary tale about blackberries [2/2]

Dan Mead discovers that conferences can be a great way to build fruitful research collaborations...

9 Mar 2018

John Sulston (1942-2018) – Founding Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute

We are deeply saddened to announce the death of Professor Sir John Sulston, Founding Director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute

8 Mar 2018

A cautionary tale about blackberries…[1/2]

Finding a blackberry bush was as easy a pie, but then Dan discovered that there are 300 different species... and even experts struggle to tell the difference

8 Mar 2018

Human Cell Atlas takes first steps towards understanding human development: First 250 thousand developmental cells sequenced

The Human Developmental Cell Atlas programme will create genomic reference maps of all the cells that are important for human development

8 Mar 2018

Supporters of women in science shine

Role models from across the Wellcome Genome Campus have been recognised for their work in promoting gender equality

5 Mar 2018

Genomic Expressions: Express yourself at new exhibition

The exhibition is part of the Wellcome Genome Campus’ Open Saturdays programme dates include 24 March, 21 April, 19 May and ...

2 Mar 2018

Genetic roots of major depression: three new genetic risk markers discovered

New research taking people's life histories into account finds new genetic regions that may increase the risk of major depression

28 Feb 2018

Missing link found between pathways involved in cell development

The new mechanism could be essential for processes that need a rapid response - such as organ repair, immune response or cancer ...

22 Feb 2018

UK Bioindustry Association (BIA) launches new Genomics Advisory Committee at annual Committee Summit

The UK Bioindustry Association (BIA) launched its newest Advisory Committee, focused on the issue of genomics, chaired by Adrian Ibrahim from ...

20 Feb 2018

Sequencing a superbug: How typhoid became extensively drug-resistant

20.02.18 Gordon Dougan and Elizabeth Klemm report how their laboratory has been sequencing the DNA of Salmonella Typhi strains that infect people around the world, and we have found evidence for an accelerating evolution of resistance to antibiotics

20 Feb 2018

Typhoid outbreak: genetic cause of extensive drug resistance found

The results suggest that treatment options for typhoid treatment are running out and preventative strategies are needed

16 Feb 2018

Getting a hold of samples... [part 2]

Dan Mead continues his hunt to collect all 25 species to sequence...

7 Feb 2018

Major funding for Cambridge to transform health through data science

Cambridge is amongst six sites across the UK to be awarded a total of £30M funding by Health Data Research UK, ...

5 Feb 2018

Is food love-hate coded in your DNA?

This Valentine’s special is the first of an exciting new programme of monthly Café Sci events in Cambridge
Chanaki Amaratunga

1 Feb 2018

Multidrug resistant malaria spread under the radar for years in Cambodia

Study suggests that ongoing genomic surveillance is vital to inform malaria control strategies

29 Jan 2018

Getting a hold of some samples…

Sequencing new species is hard enough, but finding out where you can get a sample to work with can be even harder, Dan Mead discovers
Dr Kaur Alasoo, University of Tartu

29 Jan 2018

Hidden genetic effects behind immune diseases may be missed, study suggests

For the first time immune cells created from human induced pluripotent stem cells (HiPSCs) have been used to model immune response ...

29 Jan 2018

Sarah Teichmann awarded the Genetics Society’s 2018 Mary Lyon Medal

Award recognises Dr Teichmann’s “outstanding research” in understanding how the immune system works by using genomics and bioinformatics approaches

22 Jan 2018

BioBright, Sanger Institute aim to cut drug-development time

Collaboration promises better, more reproducible biomedical data

8 Jan 2018

On choosing the 25 species for the 25 Genomes Project

From 2 billion species to just 25 - how the Sanger Institute chose which species to sequence

20 Dec 2017

Big data for mosquito control

20.12.17 Alistair Miles explains how the Anopheles gambiae 1000 Genomes project is helping to understand the evolution and spread of insecticide resistance in mosquitos across Africa, supporting the campaign to eliminate malaria.

20 Dec 2017

We let the public decide five of our species….

5,000 people participated and there were over 150,000 page views - and 5 winners

14 Dec 2017

Concerning spiders, and where to find them

Dan Mead, our 25 Genomes Project Coordinator, is on the search for spiders that like to walk on water

14 Dec 2017

Giant Hogweed sampling, a retrospective

Armed with a mobile phone, 4G signal, orange protective gloves, a tyvek suit, face shield and Google Maps, Dan Mead went in search of an elusive species

8 Dec 2017

25 species revealed for 25 Genomes Project

Blackberry to robin, bush cricket to brown trout - the 25 species all reside in the UK
Fred Hollows Foundation

8 Dec 2017

£3.9m project to support elimination of the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness

A major new research project that aims to accelerate the elimination of trachoma has been launched

4 Dec 2017

Takeda joins drug target discovery initiative

Takeda will expand the skills and scientific background of Open Target's existing partners by bringing expertise in gastroenterology, central nervous ...

1 Dec 2017

Life in the fast lane: rapid reproduction in malaria parasites

1.12.17 Brandon Invergo investigates how quickly malaria parasites can prepare to sexually reproduce once they are picked up by a mosquito.

29 Nov 2017

Largest genetic study of mosquitoes reveals spread of insecticide resistance across Africa

Genetic resource will help develop new tools to support the campaign against malaria in Africa

27 Nov 2017

Unforeseen new drug target discovered for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML)

Scientists find that inhibiting the METTL3 gene destroys AML cells without harming non-cancerous blood cells

13 Nov 2017

Alzheimer’s Disease: The puzzle we’re so desperate to solve

13.11.17 Fiona Calvert is using stem cells to study Alzheimer's Disease. Read her shortlisted article for the Max Perutz Science Writing Competition about this work.

9 Nov 2017

Risk of cholera epidemics estimated with new rule book

Researchers from across the world have studied cholera outbreaks in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean from the last 60 years
27 лютага 2014 г, Wikimedia Commons

6 Nov 2017

25 new genomes to celebrate 25 years of the Sanger Institute

Blackberry to robin, bush cricket to brown trout - the 25 species all reside in the UK

31 Oct 2017

A step towards an effective, multi-target vaccine for malaria

Gareth Powell and Leyla Bustamante helped to find five targets on the parasite that could be the basis of a new vaccine
UCL

26 Oct 2017

Professor Sharon Peacock to be awarded the 2018 Microbiology Society Unilever Colworth Prize

This Prize is awarded for significant contributions in the field of microbiology

25 Oct 2017

Study shows routine genomic surveillance of MRSA can detect unsuspected outbreaks

Catching outbreaks early could prevent further spread and reduce the number of people involved

23 Oct 2017

Five new malaria targets that could lead to an effective vaccine

Scientists have identified five targets that reduce the parasite’s ability to invade red blood cells

19 Oct 2017

1 to 10 mutations are needed to drive cancer, scientists find

The results show the number of mutations driving cancer varies considerably across different cancer types

18 Oct 2017

The international Human Cell Atlas publishes strategic blueprint; announces data from first one million cells

Blueprint describes path forward for cataloging every cell in the human body; cell data release to be available to research community

17 Oct 2017

Results of the Chordoma Genome Project reveal genetic changes that drive chordoma

17 Oct 2017

Yeast spotlights genetic variation’s link to drug resistance

Study shows that genetic diversity influences which adaptive mutations cause antimicrobial resistance
CDC/James Archer

16 Oct 2017

Genomics reveals how competition between bacteria affects the impact of vaccination

Study identifies the consequences of fierce competition between bacterial strains surviving after vaccine introduction.
Dr Harry Gouvas

12 Oct 2017

New drug hope for patients with rare bone cancer

Patients with a rare bone cancer of the skull and spine – chordoma – could be helped by existing PI3K inhibitor drugs, researchers ...

11 Oct 2017

New type of stem cell line produced offers expanded potential for research and treatments

Scientists have created Expanded Potential Stem Cells (EPSCs) that, for the first time, can produce all three types of blastocyst stem ...

10 Oct 2017

Helping apprentices lead the field in big data

Anglia Ruskin and Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute team up to deliver new training
Dave Goulding, Sanger Institute, Genome Research Limited

28 Sep 2017

UK students working with scientists to help prevent childhood parasite infection

Genome Decoders, a UK-wide schools project to help solve a global parasite problem by decoding the whipworm genome, has launched
Dr Kathy Niakan/Nature

20 Sep 2017

Genome editing reveals role of gene important for human embryo development

CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing shows that the protein OCT4 is essential in very early days of human embryo development

14 Sep 2017

Huge genetic diversity among Papuan New Guinean peoples revealed

Genetic diversity found to mirror linguistic and cultural diversity among Papuan New Guinean people

13 Sep 2017

Immunotherapy treatment option for selected breast cancer patients, genetic study suggests

Opens up the possibility of another therapy option for approximately 1,000 breast cancer patients in the UK

12 Sep 2017

Type 2 diabetes is being misdiagnosed in African Americans, genetic study suggests

Around 650,000 African Americans in the US have a unique genetic variant that significantly reduces the accuracy of the HbA1c ...

7 Sep 2017

Sanger Institute responds to UK Government's position paper on future EU and UK science collaboration

Government’s position paper offers ideas for negotiating a special status for UK research with European Union funding bodies
Christaras A

7 Sep 2017

The Brain Tumour Charity grants WINDOW Consortium £1.5 million for new research into combination therapies to treat brain cancer

The Dutch/British consortium will study glioblastoma

30 Aug 2017

The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute responds to the Life Sciences Industrial Strategy

The Life Sciences Industrial Strategy recognises the key role genomics and genetics will play in future healthcare provision

29 Aug 2017

Bowel cancer study reveals impact of mutations on protein networks

The results offer clearer picture of the cellular processes behind bowel cancer, and may enable future tailoring of drug treatments to ...

14 Aug 2017

New genetic analysis reveals late spread of breast cancer and backs key role of early diagnosis

These results show that catching and treating breast cancer before it spreads is a realistic goal

3 Aug 2017

Editing embryos – Could you? Would you? Should you? Views from Genetic Counsellors

03.08.17 This week the American Society of Human Genetics issued a policy on the application of germline editing – the ability to alter the genetic makeup of early stage embryos. Anna Middleton, one of the contributors to the statement, explains the policy's position

1 Aug 2017

Mystery epidemic that crossed species in Iceland is solved

Scientists have identified and tracked the bacteria that caused an epidemic respiratory disease in Iceland’s native horse population

27 Jul 2017

Present-day Lebanese descend from Biblical Canaanites, genetic study suggests

Scientists sequenced the genomes of 4,000-year-old Canaanite individuals and compared these to other ancient and present-day populations

21 Jul 2017

New global health initiative for genomic surveillance of antimicrobial resistance funded by NIHR

The Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance to house the Global Health Research Unit to monitor antibiotic resistant bacteria around the globe

20 Jul 2017

MRSA emerged years before methicillin was even discovered

Study shows that Staphylococcus aureus acquired the mecA methicillin resistance gene in the mid-1940s

18 Jul 2017

'Superbugs' study reveals complex picture of E. coli bloodstream infections

Genetic study of E. coli showed that drug resistant ‘superbugs’ don't always out-compete other strains.

18 Jul 2017

Placing drug-resistant strains of E. coli into a broader context

18.7.17 Samples of E. coli were isolated from patients with bloodstream infections over eleven years. Teemu Kallonen, Julian Parkhill and Sharon Peacock discuss what their genomic study on this collection reveals.

18 Jul 2017

Richard Durbin awarded the Royal Society’s Gabor Medal

Award recognises more than 25 years of developing computational biology and genomic science

13 Jul 2017

Largest study of malaria gene function reveals a finely tuned genome full of potential drug targets

Scientists discover that two thirds of the malaria parasite’s genes studied are essential for growth, meaning there are many more ...

13 Jul 2017

Malaria parasites: more susceptible to a knock-out blow than we thought?

13.7.17 Theo Sanderson and Ellen Bushell explain how characterising the role of many of the malaria parasite’s five thousand genes has shown that more of these genes are required for the parasite to grow normally, than was originally thought.

5 Jul 2017

Malaria parasites able to sense their host's calorie intake

Scientists have found that the odds of dying with a malaria infection are lower when the host eats lower amounts of ...

4 Jul 2017

The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute responds to the Chief Medical Officer's annual report 2016: Generation Genome

The UK Chief Medical Officer's report has highlighted the key role genomics and genetics will play in future healthcare provision. ...

3 Jul 2017

Artificial bile ducts successfully grown in lab and transplanted into mice could help treat liver disease in children

New method opens the way to develop future treatments and reduce the need for liver transplants

3 Jul 2017

Chief Medical Officer’s annual report 2016: Generation Genome highlights the potential for pathogen genomics in patient diagnosis and infection control

04.07.17 The UK Chief Medical Officer's Report has highlighted the vital role genetics and genomics will play in UK NHS healthcare and medicine. Professor Sharon Peacock helped write the report's chapter on Infectious disease.

29 Jun 2017

‘Like sugar in milk’: Parsi populations from India and Pakistan

29.06.17 Qasim Ayub explains the results of a genetic analysis of the Parsi population.

28 Jun 2017

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Scientists zoom in on genetic culprits

Scientists produced a high-resolution map to investigate which genetic variants have a causal role in the disease

28 Jun 2017

Professor Eleftheria Zeggini honoured as Young Scientist by World Economic Forum

Professor Eleftheria Zeggini, Group Leader in the Human Genetics programme, has been recognised by the World Economic Forum for her contributions ...

26 Jun 2017

Study reveals how sex 'blindspot' could misdirect medical research

Scientists have shown that the differences between male and female mice impact on biomedical research

23 Jun 2017

Existing drugs could benefit patients with bone cancer, genetic study suggests

New research suggests a subset of bone cancer patients are likely to respond to IGF1R inhibitors based on their genetic profile

19 Jun 2017

Babies' DNA affects mothers' risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnancy

Strong evidence found for a number of genetic variations near to the FLT1 gene being linked to increased risk of pre-eclampsia

12 Jun 2017

Hidden lives revealed in a new exhibition at the Wellcome Genome Campus

The Hidden Lives exhibition offers an exciting insight into the lives and origins of our East Anglian ancestors, greatly enriched from ...

1 Jun 2017

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative supports Human Cell Atlas data platform

The Data Coordination Platform will check, share and analyse the vast amounts of diverse information generated
Good Free Photos (www.goodfreephotos.com)

26 May 2017

Isolated Greek villages reveal genetic secrets that protect against heart disease

A genetic variant that protects the heart against cardiovascular disease has been discovered by researchers at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute ...

18 May 2017

Natural resistance to malaria linked to variation in human red blood cell receptors

First study to identify protective effect of glycophorin gene rearrangements on malaria

10 May 2017

Scientists unveil the UK’s largest resource of human stem cells from healthy donors

Powerful resource created for scientists studying human development and disease

9 May 2017

Cancer drug design targeted by COSMIC's new 3D system

Collaboration between Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and Astex Pharmaceuticals brings together COSMIC (Catalogue of Somatic Mutations In Cancer) and wwPDB (worldwide ...

8 May 2017

Dr Matt Hurles elected to the Academy of Medical Sciences

Head of the Human Genetics Programme recognised with prestigious Fellowship
Sanger Institute Genome Research Ltd.

25 Apr 2017

Genetics and environment combine to give everyone a unique sense of smell

Genetically identical mice develop different smell receptors in response to their environments

25 Apr 2017

New chlamydia drug targets discovered using CRISPR and stem cells

Scientists have created an innovative technique for studying how chlamydia invades our immune system

13 Apr 2017

Mouse’s internal clock could reveal the secrets of ageing

Researchers have discovered that mice’s DNA ages in a similar way to humans

12 Apr 2017

Some genes are less helpful than others

Some people are naturally missing one of their 20,000 genes - and sometimes the results can be beneficial, pointing to new ...

11 Apr 2017

How genetic mutations affect development more complex than previously thought

Turning off the same gene in mice can result in different physical changes, despite similar genetic backgrounds

11 Apr 2017

New deep learning technique offers a more accurate approach to single-cell genomics

Scientists are using the emerging technology of deep learning to fill in the missing gaps of single-cell genomic analysis

2 Apr 2017

Sanger parasite researcher recognised by British Parasitology Society

Dr Matthew Berriman awarded the 2017 CA Wright Medal for his leading role in understanding protozoan and helminthic parasites through genomics

30 Mar 2017

Single-cell sequencing reveals immune cell coordination breaks down with ageing

T cells from older mice were more variable and less coordinated
Nature Methods DOI: 10.1038/nmeth.4236

27 Mar 2017

New tool allows analysis of single-cell RNA data in pre-malignant tumours

Single Cell Consensus Clustering (SC3) tool more accurate and robust than previous methods for sorting cells into groups

23 Mar 2017

New stem cell method produces millions of human brain and muscle cells in days

The new platform technology, OPTi-OX, optimises the way of switching on genes in human stem cells
M Johnson, Wellcome Images

22 Mar 2017

First mutations in human life discovered

Archaeological traces of embryo development seen in adult cells

20 Mar 2017

Novel genes identified that help suppress prostate and other cancers

Study reveals possible drug targets for cancers with a faulty PTEN gene

13 Mar 2017

1 in 5 patients with breast cancer could benefit from existing treatment, genetic study reveals

Study shows that a greater number of breast cancers are genetically similar to rarer cases with faulty BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes

8 Mar 2017

Role models recognised for supporting women in science

Eleftheria Zeggini of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and Helen Parkinson of the European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) have been recognised for ...

7 Mar 2017

Matt Hurles appointed as new Head of Human Genetics Programme

Dr Matt Hurles, leader of the DDD Programme and co-founder of Institute spin-out Congenica, has been confirmed as the new Head ...

3 Mar 2017

Latest genomic technology uncovers secrets of immune system's response to malaria

Scientists reveal how mouse T cells develop

27 Feb 2017

Sanger Institute clinical analysis spin-out goes from strength to strength

20 Feb 2017

Sanger Institute's COSMIC database expands cancer cloud capabilities at the Institute for Systems Biology

The Institute for Systems Biology has embedded the COSMIC data within their Cancer Genomics Cloud (CGC), which is a cloud-based platform ...
Sanger Institute, Genome Research Ltd

10 Feb 2017

Malaria vaccine target’s invasion partner uncovered

This could help develop a more effective malaria vaccine

10 Feb 2017

Sanger scientists win £20 million ‘Grand Challenge’ funding from Cancer Research UK

Professor Sir Mike Stratton will lead an international team to help transform our understanding of what causes cancer

6 Feb 2017

Genes linked to malaria parasites’ ability to persist in the body

The ability of malaria parasites to persist in the body for years is linked to the expression of a set of ...

30 Jan 2017

Largest genetic study of inflammatory bowel disease provides clues on new drug targets

Genetic variant identified that doubles an individual’s risk of developing ulcerative colitis

30 Jan 2017

Tracking the movement of a deadly pathogen and biothreat agent

30.01.17 Sharon Peacock and Claire Chewapreecha reveal how the bacterium responsible for Melioidosis has spread across the globe.

25 Jan 2017

Genetic study identifies 14 new developmental disorders in children

Study shows 400,000 children with developmental disorders born each year globally

25 Jan 2017

Genome secrets of elusive human malaria species revealed

Improved surveillance and diagnosis of rarer malaria parasites possible

23 Jan 2017

Study reveals new genetic mechanism driving breast cancer

This new mechanism found in 33 mutation hotspots in the genome.

20 Jan 2017

Sarah Teichmann given Helmholtz International Fellow Award

Head of Cellular Genetics recognised with 20,000 Euros to further her research and an invitation to a research stay at ...

16 Jan 2017

Best treatment option written in cancer’s genetic script

Acute myeloid leukaemia study finds personalised therapy is possible

11 Jan 2017

New genes identified that regulate the spread of cancers

Study reveals Spns2 gene as a new drug target

20 Dec 2016

In search of the hidden reservoir of Malaria

20.12.16 Arthur Talman explains how his field work in Mali could help understand the behaviour of malaria parasites.

19 Dec 2016

Cambridge Innovation Capital plc and IP Group plc announce the creation of Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute spin-out company, Microbiotica

Based on ground-breaking research at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute into the role of the human microbiome in disease. Goal is ...

19 Dec 2016

Largest ever genetic study of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis reveals potential drug target

International collaboration finds associations with four regions of the genome in PSC patients

30 Nov 2016

Online epidemic tracking tool embraces open data and collective intelligence to understand outbreaks

Researchers from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and Imperial College London have developed Microreact, a free, real-time epidemic visualisation and tracking ...

29 Nov 2016

Enhanced CRISPR lets scientists explore all steps of health and disease in every cell type

Two new methods will allow researchers world-wide to rapidly and accurately explore the changing role of genes as the cells develop ...

24 Nov 2016

Sanger spin-out secures $100 million

Company founded on Institute technology goes from strength to strength.

23 Nov 2016

River blindness worm’s genome reveals unique fatal flaws

In Nature Microbiology, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute researchers revealed the whole genome of Onchocerca volvulus, and within it key differences to ...

21 Nov 2016

Prime Minister opened £42M Biodata Innovation Centre and new Sequencing Facility

The UK Prime Minister Rt Hon Theresa May today (21 November) joined key stakeholders from across the life sciences sector to ...

17 Nov 2016

Landmark project shows heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis risk raised by genetic changes in blood cells

As part of BLUEPRINT, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute led two of the six papers published in the journal Cell

10 Nov 2016

Multi-drug resistant infection spreading globally among cystic fibrosis patients

Study reveals challenge to infection control practices in hospitals

10 Nov 2016

Newton's apple seeds to grow on Wellcome Genome Campus

Wellcome Genome Campus Connecting Science celebrate International Science Centre Day

3 Nov 2016

Genetic marker found for resistance to malaria treatment in Cambodia

Resistance to the key anti-malarial drug piperaquine has recently emerged in Cambodia, this research will help health officials to monitor its ...

3 Nov 2016

Smoking a pack a day for a year causes 150 mutations in lung cells

Genetic damage caused by smoking measured in different organs of the body

27 Oct 2016

Ancient interbreeding between chimpanzees and bonobos revealed

Genome study creates new conservation opportunities

20 Oct 2016

Sanger Institute Researcher Sam Behjati given the inaugural St. Baldrick’s Foundation Robert J Arceci International Award

The revolutionary award will allow Dr Behjati to focus on finding treatments for childhood cancers without typical research restrictions

18 Oct 2016

Vulnerabilities of leukaemia cells revealed using genome editing technique

Researchers have uncovered approximately 500 genes that are essential for cancer cell survival, including more than 200 for which drugs could ...

14 Oct 2016

International Human Cell Atlas Initiative

An ambitious global initiative to create a Human Cell Atlas - a description of every cell in the human body as a ...

29 Sep 2016

New drug target for asthma

PD-1 marker found in immune cells that can trigger asthma

26 Sep 2016

New genetic links for heart disease risk factors identified

17 rare genetic variants found

26 Sep 2016

Out of Africa: more data must give us definite answers, soon ….

26.09.2016 Dr Yali Xue shares her hopes and dreams of using the world's genomes to understand our evolution and migration out of Africa

23 Sep 2016

Richard Durbin awarded the International Steven Hoogendijk Award

Sanger Institute Faculty member is recognised for his contribution to bioinformatics

21 Sep 2016

The genetic history of Aboriginal Australians and Papuans

Evidence found for a single major 'Out of Africa' migration event

16 Sep 2016

Childhood cancer targeted by Sanger Institute and St Jude Children’s Research Hospital data-sharing agreement

Regular updates and exchanges of cancer data in childhood cancer will help both institutions and will be made freely available to ...

12 Sep 2016

How ionising radiation damages DNA and causes cancer

Two characteristic patterns of DNA damage found

22 Aug 2016

How oesophageal cancers grow

Oesophageal cancers driven by 'marginal gain' rather than speed

22 Aug 2016

New types of African Salmonella associated with lethal infection

Two novel African types differ genetically to Western Salmonella Enteritidis

1 Aug 2016

Largest genomic study of heart disease in children reveals inherited genetic roots and new disorders

The international study sequenced and analysed the protein-coding segments of the genome of 1,900 congenital heart disease patients and their ...

21 Jul 2016

New intellectual disability syndrome caused by damage to single gene

Study explains genetic effect on cognition

12 Jul 2016

Red hair gene variant drives up skin cancer mutations

The burden of mutations is comparable to an extra 21 years of sun exposure

11 Jul 2016

Dr Sarah Teichmann awarded Fellowship by the International Society for Computational Biology

Head of the Cellular Genetics Programme at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute is honoured for her work in computational biology and ...

11 Jul 2016

International collaboration to create new cancer models to accelerate research

Human Cancer Models Initiative (HCMI) will create globally accessible bank of around 1,000 cancer cell models.

7 Jul 2016

Cancer cell lines predict drug response

Large-scale study could increase success rate of developing personalised cancer treatments

6 Jul 2016

Anatomy of a decision: mapping early development

A new atlas of gene expression during the earliest stages of life boosts studies of development

29 Jun 2016

Companion: a new tool to generate and visualize annotation of parasite genomes

29.06.16 Sascha Steinbiss & Thomas D. Otto explain how this new software tool and web server will allow people to compare parasite genomes more effectively

27 Jun 2016

Monitoring malaria parasite reveals evolving drug resistance and infection history

Plasmodium vivax study shows genomic surveillance could guide health strategies

22 Jun 2016

Understanding historical population movements and the study of malaria

22.06.16 Past migrations within sub-Saharan Africa revealed in a post by George Busby

9 Jun 2016

Acute myeloid leukaemia is at least 11 different diseases

Landmark study shows genetic changes explain differences in survival for young AML patients.

9 Jun 2016

GA4GH presents vision for genomic and clinical data sharing

The Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH) calls for a federated data ecosystem for sharing genomic and clinical data, in  ...

26 May 2016

Nicole Soranzo named among Italy’s Top 38 Women Scientists in biomedicine

Award recognises the impact of Sanger Institute researcher’s work in driving forward biomedical science

24 May 2016

Closing the Evidence Gap on Public Attitudes Toward Genetic Data Handling

The Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH) and the Wellcome Genome Campus have launched a new project to explore global ...

24 May 2016

Personalised medicine – how to stand out in a crowd

25.05.16 Personalised medicine is the promise of genomic research, but to make it a reality will take a community of researchers, clinicians, healthcare workers, policy makers and patients, Sarion Bowers explains

18 May 2016

Tracking the last Ebola cases in Sierra Leone

Ebola virus genomes were sequenced in a temporary laboratory at the outbreak treatment centre

17 May 2016

X-Men Inheritance - research project launched to discover how families understand genetics

A new study at the Wellcome Genome Campus will use popular films such as the X-Men series to explore how stories ...

5 May 2016

Karma Bacterium: New additions to the Culture Club

05.05.16 Hilary Browne explains how growing previously 'unculturable' microbiota helps determine the role of bacteria in human health

5 May 2016

Superbug infections tracked across Europe

The Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance has developed a new web-based tool that can track the spread of MRSA

4 May 2016

Bugs as drugs

Harnessing novel gut bacteria for human health

2 May 2016

Five new breast cancer genes found

Discovery of mutations paves the way for personalised treatment of breast cancer

25 Apr 2016

Modern DNA reveals ancient male population explosions linked to migration and technology

Y chromosomes bear the marks of a series of explosive increases in male numbers linked to human development

19 Apr 2016

Open Targets: new name, new data

The Centre for Therapeutic Target Validation - now called ‘Open Targets’ - releases its first experimental datasets from consortium experiments and a new ...

17 Apr 2016

International Cancer Genome Consortium for Medicine (ICGCmed) will link genomics to clinical information and health

New Orleans – (April 17, 2016) The International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) today announced plans to launch the International Cancer Genome Consortium ...

7 Apr 2016

Test run finds no cancer risk from stem cell therapy

Therapeutic stem cells can be made without introducing genetic changes that could later lead to cancer, a study in PLoS Genetics ...

6 Apr 2016

Scientists and conservation charities join forces to track Spanish bluebell invasion

Volunteers will use some of the latest genomic technologies to help understand the spread of the Spanish bluebell

29 Mar 2016

Early-stage embryos with abnormalities can still develop into healthy babies

Study shows that abnormal cells within embryos can be killed off by programmed cell death, and replaced by normal cells for ...

24 Mar 2016

Embryo development: Some cells are more equal than others even at four-cell stage

Although they seem to be identical, the cells of a two-day-old embryo are already beginning to display subtle differences

23 Mar 2016

Launch of new European Stem Cell Bank

Sanger Institute's stem cells pipeline contributes HiPSCi cell lines to international resource.

22 Mar 2016

Black fever beats drugs by adding just two DNA bases to its genome

For drug resistance, sometimes it just takes two (extra DNA base pairs)

22 Mar 2016

Genomes of chimpanzee parasite species reveal evolution of human malaria

Whole-genome sequencing and analysis has been used to explore and understand the origins of human malarial disease.

21 Mar 2016

Genomic study of epidemic dysentery reveals how Europe exported a scourge worldwide

Largest genetic study of the bacterium responsible for epidemic dysentery has revealed that the Shigella dysenteriae pathogen, which remains a real ...

16 Mar 2016

Editing the Debate

Editing the genome is a grand endeavour. Discussions on the aims and regulation of genome editing need to reflect the opinion of both scientists and the public. Sarion Bowers explains.

14 Mar 2016

Politicians want to make the most of personalised medicine for the NHS

More than one hundred stakeholders will join parliamentarians to discuss the nature of personalised medicine and implications for the NHS.

14 Mar 2016

Socialising the Genome

Anna Middleton explains how bringing together an Advertising Executive, a Genetic Counsellor and the power of Internet Videos is tackling the issues of Gnomes in the Genome

14 Mar 2016

Strongest single gene conclusively implicated in schizophrenia

Single-letter changes to the DNA code of one gene have been shown to have a substantial effect on the risk of ...

8 Mar 2016

Leading the way for gender equality

Sumana Sharma of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and Robert Petryszak of the European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI) have been recognised for ...

7 Mar 2016

Evolution of artemisinin-resistant malaria

07/03/2016: Roberto Amato shows how mutations in the malaria gene kelch13, associated with artemisinin resistance in Southeast Asia, are far less common in Africa.

7 Mar 2016

Immunology meets single-cell sequencing

A new computational approach in single-cell genomics reveals how different types of T cells detect, destroy and remember invaders.

4 Mar 2016

Studying gene function through natural gene knockouts in humans

Studying the genome sequences of natural gene knockouts in humans has shown that only a small fraction of our genes are essential for human health. Vagheesh Narasimhan explains.
Wellcome Library, London

25 Feb 2016

Casting light on the neglected tropical disease Trachoma

Genomic sequencing reveals link between STIs and leading cause of infectious blindness

25 Feb 2016

Genetic study reveals 50 thousand years of independent history of Aboriginal Australian people

Researchers worked with Aboriginal Australian communities to explore heritage

16 Feb 2016

Slavery carried bilharzia parasites from West Africa to the Caribbean, genomics confirms

The bilharzia-causing parasite, Schistosoma mansoni, first infected humans as they fished in lakes in East Africa and was spread, first to ...

8 Feb 2016

Biogen joins pioneering target validation collaboration CTTV

The Centre for Therapeutic Target Validation welcomes new member Biogen, expanding its efforts to accelerate drug discovery research

1 Feb 2016

How do parasites worm their way in?

Adam Reid has worked with researchers around the world to discover the genes that let the Strongyloides nematode set up home inside us

28 Jan 2016

Super-speed Salmonella evolution

28/01/2016: Thousands of years’ worth of evolution in just one person: Elizabeth Klemm explains how a Salmonella Enteritidis infection evolved to survive for 15 years in an immunocompromised patient.

21 Jan 2016

Turning DREAM into reality

21.01.16 David Wedge reports the launch of a new DREAM Challenge that aims to identify the different cells that make up a cancer

19 Jan 2016

Ancient genomes reveal that the English are one third Anglo-Saxon

DNA from ancient British skeletons reveals immigrant history

11 Jan 2016

Parallel single-cell profiling now possible

New protocol allows links between DNA methylation and gene expression to be studied in the same cells

18 Dec 2015

“Darwin’s puddle” shows how new species can emerge without geographic separation

Cichlid fish from a tiny volcanic crater have been caught in the act of sympatric speciation

14 Dec 2015

Sperm mutation rate varies between fathers

Risk of having two children with the same genetic disorder is determined by mutation timing

11 Dec 2015

Periodic table of protein complexes

New tool helps to visualise, understand and predict how proteins combine to drive biological processes

8 Dec 2015

Target Validation Platform launches

A web interface to help researchers find therapeutic targets for new and repurposed medicines is launched by the Centre for Therapeutic ...

7 Dec 2015

Skin cells play ‘dice games’

Movies of cell growth explain skin graft success and may help understand cancer

9 Nov 2015

Molecular clocks control mutation rate in human cells

Cancer and ageing could be predetermined by the speed of molecular clocks

29 Oct 2015

Targeted therapy for gastric cancer possible

Genomic fingerprint can highlight which breast, ovarian, pancreatic and gastric cancers are likely to respond to treatment

26 Oct 2015

CRISPR/Cas9 used for rapid functional study of cancer-causing genes

Novel high-throughput approach finds combinations of genes that induce cancer

19 Oct 2015

Location, location, location: Site of inflammatory bowel disease crucial

Genetic similarity suggests Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis form a continuum of subtypes in the bowel

5 Oct 2015

Sharing of genetic data empowers discovery of new disorders in children

Four new genetic disorders identified

2 Oct 2015

1000 genomes for mankind

Completed project creates largest catalogue of global genomic diversity

2 Oct 2015

Gene expression: a snapshot of stem cell development

New genes found that regulate development of stem cells

1 Oct 2015

Genes that protect African children from developing malaria identified

New resistance locus lies close to gatekeeper genes involved in malaria invasion of red blood cells

30 Sep 2015

Lessons from Ebola: Better disease surveillance needed

Technology could help counter risk of next Ebola crisis

14 Sep 2015

10,000 UK genomes project explores the contribution of rare variants to human disease and its risk factors

Landmark study confirms complexity and informs the next stages of research

10 Sep 2015

Great balls of cells: Using intestinal organoids to study Salmonella

10.09.15 It is difficult to study Salmonella infections in the body. Jessica Forbester explains how newly created balls of intestinal cells can help.

17 Aug 2015

Immunotherapy: the latest way to treat cancer

Yong Yu talks about his research in immunotherapy, an emerging cancer treatment that exploits the biology of innate lymphoid cells

7 Aug 2015

Shigella flexneri persists in environment and switches serotypes

Clean water, not vaccines, will be most effective against dysentery, genomics reveal

31 Jul 2015

Analysis of horse pathogen sheds light on persistent infections

Bacteria that lost diversity around WWI provides insight into HIV and TB

30 Jul 2015

Major European study reveals role of genes in disease

EUMODIC consortium studies functions of over 300 mouse genes

20 Jul 2015

Host-targeted antibodies effective against malaria

20 Jul 2015

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) genetically similar in Europeans and non-Europeans

15 Jul 2015

Stealth and sabotage

15.07.15 Abigail Perrin explains how malaria parasites trick our immune system

13 Jul 2015

Scientists create mini liver segments for drug discovery

2 Jul 2015

New antimalarial compound discovered

1 Jul 2015

"Being a scientist is fantastic"

Former EBI Director Janet Thornton talks to Saher Ahmed about life and science - and finding a balance between the two

1 Jul 2015

Fellowship renamed in honour of Janet Thornton

23 Jun 2015

Genome of emerging antibiotic resistant bacteria decoded

22 Jun 2015

A breath of fresh air for oxygen-starved tissue

22.06.15 Artificial membrane could transform the way we treat heart disease, says Rameen Shakur

18 Jun 2015

Sarah Teichmann receives EMBO Gold Award

3 Jun 2015

Ebola sequencing data released to global research community

1 Jun 2015

CRISPR genome editing far safer than previously thought

1 Jun 2015

Out of Africa via Egypt

27 May 2015

It’s all about reproducibility

To check results, experiments need to be repeated. In animal research, this hasn’t been easy but, as Natasha Karp explains, new guidelines will ensure detailed methods are shared

21 May 2015

Using healthy skin to identify cancer's origins

12 May 2015

Drug target for asthma discovered

11 May 2015

Antibiotic resistant typhoid detected in countries around the world

7 May 2015

Patient cancer cells help to test treatments

29 Apr 2015

Most people eager to know the secrets of their genetics

28 Apr 2015

Action against antibiotic resistance begins with the community

27 Apr 2015

Single cells seen in unprecedented detail

24 Apr 2015

Keeping pace with changing parasite genetics

25.04.15 Malaria parasites adapt at a frightening rate. A global collaboration has compiled a large collection of P. falciparum genomes and is using this resource to keep up.

15 Apr 2015

Helping computers to read symptoms

15.04.15 Big data can help us find the causes of rare diseases. But, says Anika Oellrich, computers must first understand the many ways we describe symptoms

13 Apr 2015

Being part of the herd saves lives

13.04.15 Stopping the leading cause of child death starts with you. Rebecca Gladstone explains how widespread vaccination protects the vulnerable

9 Apr 2015

Mountain gorillas enter the genomic age

4 Apr 2015

A world without smell

02.04.15 Fresh bread, your newborn baby, a gas leak; Darren Logan imagines life without these smells and explains his work to understand the genetics of anosmia

1 Apr 2015

Following cancer’s journey

01.04.15 How do tumours move between organs? Are they competing when they spread or do they work cooperatively? David Wedge looks for answers in a new prostate cancer study

1 Apr 2015

Is the playing field level in prostate cancer?

01.04.15 Between competing prostate tumours there are often areas of normal tissue. David Wedge asks whether these healthy cells are actually creating a field effect that facilitates cancer’s spread

1 Apr 2015

Prostate cancer study overturns thinking on cancer's spread

30 Mar 2015

The bacteria that’s as smart as a whip

30.03.15 In the rest of the world, Salmonella Typhi has only one type of flagellin, the whip-like structure that helps it to move. Indonesian strains have at least three different types. Fernanda Schreiber asks why

18 Mar 2015

From bench to bedside

18.03.15 Some scientific discoveries become life-changing technologies while others never make it to the clinic. Sarion Bowers introduces an initiative aimed at ensuring progress benefits patients

17 Mar 2015

Parliamentary Group seeks bioscience health benefits

13 Mar 2015

Patience is a virtue for tolerant bacteria

13.03.15 How do microbes develop a tolerance to antibiotics? Research into the genetic mechanisms suggest it’s something of a waiting game, explains Kate Baker

13 Mar 2015

Sanger Institute PhD student wins prestigious prize

9 Mar 2015

Answering age-old questions

09.03.15 Why do we age? What’s happening to us at a cellular level? While exploring competing theories, Tamir Chandra and Philip Ewels stumbled on some possible answers

8 Mar 2015

Supporting Women in Science

6 Mar 2015

The home of genetic sequencing

05.03.15 Fred Sanger, who unlocked life’s code, will be honoured at a ceremony this weekend. Anita Sedgewick explains how he and world-changing biologists like him are being remembered.

4 Mar 2015

Two return-to-research fellows appointed at the Sanger Institute

2 Mar 2015

SMRTer sequencing

02.03.15 We’re beginning to understand how bacterial DNA adapts and evolves. John Lees explains the long and short of the technology that’s made it possible

27 Feb 2015

Dr Jeffrey Barrett to lead Centre for Therapeutic Target Validation

26 Feb 2015

Leukaemia-associated mutations almost inevitable as we age

25 Feb 2015

Teaching old dogs new tricks

25.02.15 An unassuming small molecule derived from Vitamin A has the potential to make cell-reprogramming more efficient than ever, explains Jian Yang

19 Feb 2015

The mosaic of life

19.02.15 Structural changes to the intricate pattern of DNA after fertilisation could be the cause of as yet undiagnosed developmental disorders, says Dan King

4 Feb 2015

Wondrous diversity

04.02.15 Malaria-transmitting mosquito populations harbour an extraordinary potential for adaptation, says Alistair Miles

2 Feb 2015

Cancer cells and the quest for immortality

02.02.15 Researchers are beginning to understand cancer’s crafty tricks for dodging death, says Daniela Robles-Espinoza

29 Jan 2015

CRISPR collaboration aims to speed drug discovery

28 Jan 2015

Can sharing your personal data protect your freedom?

28.01.15 Proposed EU limits on data use will limit genetic research, which relies on enormous data sets. Does preventing the sharing of personal data for research really serve the public’s interest, asks Sarion Bowers

20 Jan 2015

American Society of Clinical Oncology highlights Sanger Institute research

20 Jan 2015

How can we see our immune system?

19.01.15 By sequencing individual immune cells, scientists can now look at the way our bodies respond to infection and disease. Rachael Bashford-Rogers explains what this new viewpoint could show us

19 Jan 2015

Genetics underpinning antimalarial drug resistance revealed

14 Jan 2015

A molecular archaeologist's toolkit

14.01.15 Like archaeologists, cancer researchers piece together the shards of past catastrophe. However, as Moritz Gerstung explains, algorithms, not brushes, are the tools of the trade

9 Jan 2015

Novel breast cancer gene found

8 Jan 2015

Revamped website unravels mysteries of DNA

24 Dec 2014

Project finds 12 new genetic causes of developmental disorders

24 Dec 2014

Which bacterium is it anyway?

24.12.14 Microorganisms are everywhere, so how can you be sure they aren’t contaminating the bacteria you are sequencing? Zannah Salter explores the problem and some solutions

18 Dec 2014

Fast-changing genes help malaria to hide in the human body

18 Dec 2014

Fundamental mechanism for controlling protein function identified

17 Dec 2014

Getting to know you

17.12.14 Your genome can tell you a great deal about your future health but, asks Anna Middleton, how much should researchers be required to tell you?

17 Dec 2014

Making single-cell biology work

17 Dec 2014

National project paves way for clinical genetic diagnosis

16 Dec 2014

Institute cancer diagnostics spin-out secures £12.5 million

12 Dec 2014

Understanding the impact of genomic data

12.12.14 Genome sequencing is now available to all. Can our current genetic counselling service deal with the fallout, asks Anna Middleton

10 Dec 2014

Isolating cause and effect with sensitive mice

10.12.14 The smallest environmental change can have an impact on a mouse. Natasha Karp explains how experiments must be carefully designed to take this into account to reduce future animal usage.

8 Dec 2014

Genes that cause pancreatic cancer identified by new tool

3 Dec 2014

Study set to shape medical genetics in Africa

28 Nov 2014

Parasitic worm genomes: largest-ever dataset released

26 Nov 2014

Targeting skin cancers

26.11.14 Many melanomas don’t respond to existing drugs and most eventually become resistant to treatment. Marco Ranzani explains how researchers are searching for new therapies

24 Nov 2014

Battling bacteria: this time it’s personal

24.11.14 Claire Chewapreecha’s research into the genetics of deadly bacteria is motivated by her commitment to improve public health at home in Thailand

21 Nov 2014

Brain-dwelling worm in UK man's head sequenced

10 Nov 2014

Large-scale study raises hopes for development of E. coli vaccine

7 Nov 2014

World War I soldier helps in fight against dysentery

5 Nov 2014

African genomes yield sickle cell insights

5 Nov 2014

Science and the media - allies or enemies?

05.11.14 Meeting science journalists and hearing from researchers about their media work has encouraged Rebecca Gladstone to stand up for science

3 Nov 2014

Open season in science

03.11.14 Research has become more publicly available than ever before. Sarion Bowers explores the benefits and dangers of open access

21 Oct 2014

Global Alliance for Genomics and Health Members Meet to Advance Genomic Data Sharing

20 Oct 2014

Sanger Institute researcher collaborates on story of love and flu

13 Oct 2014

Sanger Institute researcher becomes Suffrage Science awardee

13 Oct 2014

The life and death of a B cell

13.10.14 Alena Pance explains how the unforeseen survival of cells in her team’s work led to an unexpected discovery about chemotherapy resistance.

30 Sep 2014

Malaria study raises evolutionary questions

26 Sep 2014

Drawing a BLUEPRINT for blood cells

An EU-funded project is looking beyond genetics to see what governs how our blood cells are created and how they function

25 Sep 2014

Journey from stem cell to blood cell uncovered

25 Sep 2014

Protein controlling gut's protective force field identified

16 Sep 2014

Gene variant that dramatically reduces 'bad' lipids

16 Sep 2014

Hide and seq: tracking down viruses

16.09.14 The genetic code of a virus is a million times shorter than ours and changes quickly. Velislava Petrova explains how to find and track these slippery foes

12 Sep 2014

Poised and waiting for malaria’s next move

11.09.14 Scientists across Africa have set up a network to track and rapidly respond to the emergence of antimalarial drug resistance. Sanger International Fellow Abdoulaye Djimdé explains why it's so vital

10 Sep 2014

The deep end

10.09.14 Stepping out of a science degree and into a communications role was never going to be easy, says Sophia Berry

9 Sep 2014

Comparison holds key to human infection

8 Sep 2014

How do animals become domesticated?

08.09.14 Rabbits provide an excellent model for studying the genetics of domestication. Bronwen Aken explains how changes in their genomes explain shifts in behaviour

5 Sep 2014

Odour, ardour and anger

04.09.14 Why do male and female mice behave differently? As Ximena Ibarra-Soria explains, smell plays a role but it’s not as straightforward as you might expect.

29 Aug 2014

Happy Birthday, Sanger Institute Blog!

To celebrate, here are the 10 most popular posts from the blog’s second year

15 Aug 2014

Samtools CRAMS in support for improved compression formats

14 Aug 2014

Do stem cells have memory?

14.08.14 Some stem cells may recall their origins. Daniel Gaffney and Foad Rouhani explain how genetic variation complicates the picture

13 Aug 2014

Why do resistant bacteria succeed?

11 Aug 2014

Fleshing out our knowledge of bone

11.08.14 Bone is regulated by a multitude of pathways and we are only just beginning to see how they all interact, explains Isabel Quiros-Gonzalez

7 Aug 2014

Finding the genetic culprits that drive antibiotic resistance

7 Aug 2014

Mobile DNA elements restructure cancer genomes

5 Aug 2014

Genomics API supports Global Alliance for Genomics and Health

4 Aug 2014

Malaria: the parasite’s perspective

04.08.14 Artist Deborah Robinson wanted to go beyond familiar malaria imagery and create new ways of seeing the disease. Here, she explains her process

1 Aug 2014

Genome Campus will host UK NHS 100,000 genomes project

31 Jul 2014

Urban lifestyle risk factors increase in world's most rural area

30 Jul 2014

New malaria vaccine candidates identified

21 Jul 2014

New technique maps life's effects on our DNA

15 Jul 2014

Chasing the cause of chicken coccidiosis

15.07.14 The secret to a devastating chicken parasite’s success could lie in the uniquely repetitive structure of its DNA, explains Adam Reid

10 Jul 2014

Secrets and secretions of merozoite proteins

10.07.14 If we can understand the function of the proteins displayed on the surface of malaria parasites, we might be able to make highly effective vaccines

8 Jul 2014

The egg enigma

08.07.14 Why did it take a decade to find the perfect partner for sperm’s surface protein?

2 Jul 2014

Agreement will accelerate genetic disease research worldwide

2 Jul 2014

Three shades of fat

02.07.14 If we’re to tackle obesity, it’s important to understand the crucial differences between white, beige and brown adipose tissue

29 Jun 2014

Reconstructing the life history of a single cell

25 Jun 2014

Mosquitos swap insecticide-resistance genes

18 Jun 2014

Trials and tribulations of a corresponding author

18.06.14 For Yali Xue, a series of unfortunate events made the process of publishing her paper a rather more stressful experience than it might have been

15 Jun 2014

Exploring a parasitic tunnel-boring machine

13 Jun 2014

What does it mean to be obese?

13.06.14 Measurements for obesity based on studies conducted in European populations may not be appropriate for African populations, explains Georgina Murphy

12 Jun 2014

En busca de la epistasia

12.06.14 En la cruzada por entender cómo la genética determina la forma en que funcionamos, Andrew Brown nos cuenta cómo, hasta hace poco, hemos estado ignorando un nivel de complejidad

12 Jun 2014

The search for epistasis

12.06.14 In the quest to understand how genetics determines the way we function, there’s a layer of complexity that, up until now, we've all been ignoring, says Andrew Brown

11 Jun 2014

Sanger Institute launches return-to-research fellowship

9 Jun 2014

Pathway between gut and liver regulates bone mass

4 Jun 2014

Superbugs at home

04.06.14 MRSA isn’t just a hospital infection, it can make itself a cosy home in the community. A study in Manhattan took a different approach to tracking and control, explains Janina Dordel

3 Jun 2014

Looking further afield

03.06.14 Writing reviews on papers outside your area of expertise can inspire new ideas. Virologist Eva Archer talks about her recent foray into research on rabies

30 May 2014

Using big data to understand small data

30.05.14 Looking at patterns in vast datasets is helping researchers to pick out individual genes involved in cancer development and disregard misleading errors, explains Alistair Rust

29 May 2014

An unexpected discovery

29.05.14 When Susie Cooke stumbled upon a dead gene in cancer DNA, she realised that what she’d found had been theorised but had never been seen before

29 May 2014

Clonal heterogeneity is hidden in the mix

19 May 2014

Beneath the skin

19 May 2014

Getting under the skin of dermatological conditions

19.05.14 Combining large-scale genetic screening with tissue screening has identified genes involved in nine severe skin abnormalities, explains Valerie Vancollie

15 May 2014

Concordat to broaden understanding of animal research

15 May 2014

Is this mosquito a new species?

Have Anopheles sundaicus mosquitoes divided into several different species? One way to find out is to reconstruct their evolutionary history...

11 May 2014

Atlas shows how genes affect our metabolism

8 May 2014

Immune cells use steroids

7 May 2014

Institute supports boost for science participation

7 May 2014

Julian Parkhill and Karen Steel elected to EMBO

6 May 2014

Brief encounters in mass spectrometry

06.05.14 Proteins are transformed in a fleeting but essential process called phosphorylation. Researchers are perfecting techniques to locate these potential drug targets, explains James Wright

1 May 2014

Institute researcher elected Fellow of the Royal Society

30 Apr 2014

Non-allelic homologous recombination: inheritance or chance?

30.04.14 Are deletions and duplications of portions of the genome in sperm due to genetics or is it more random? Jackie MacArthur and Sarah Lindsay compared samples from twin brothers to find out

29 Apr 2014

Two human genomes per hour

28 Apr 2014

Single cell genomics: thinking small

28.04.14 Advances in single-cell genomics are starting to reveal just how much diversity can occur within a single organism, says Iain Macaulay

25 Apr 2014

Seeking causes of osteoarthritis

24 Apr 2014

Origin and evolution of Bordetella pertussis

24 Apr 2014

The enemy within

24.04.14 Virus DNA found within the genome of the disease-spreading tsetse fly could provide researchers with the key to controlling sleeping sickness, says Daniel Masiga

24 Apr 2014

Tsetse fly genome reveals weaknesses

21 Apr 2014

A plague in your family

16 Apr 2014

Sperm meets egg: protein essential for fertilisation discovered

14 Apr 2014

Shoot the messengers

14.04.14 Signalling molecules have been shown to be essential throughout the lifecycle of the malaria parasite. Disrupting them could halt development and transmission, says Mathieu Brochet

13 Apr 2014

Virus-fighting genes linked to mutations in cancer

11 Apr 2014

Leading questions

11.04.14 Anna Middleton recently emerged victorious in an online competition where young people can ask scientists anything. She explains how instructive those questions were

8 Apr 2014

An underestimated emergency

08.04.14 Antibiotic-resistant infections are disproportionately affecting the very people who can’t afford alternative treatments. The situation is critical, says Sam Kariuki

8 Apr 2014

Congenital heart disease gene found

1 Apr 2014

The Sanger Institute honoured with Athena SWAN Bronze Award

30 Mar 2014

Genetic mutations warn of skin cancer risk

27 Mar 2014

Where do you start when developing a new medicine?

25 Mar 2014

Battling against resistance

25.03.14 By sequencing and tracking gonorrhea, researchers are hoping to reduce the spread of strains resistant to antibiotic treatment, explains Janina Dordel

23 Mar 2014

Leukaemia caused by chromosome catastrophe

17 Mar 2014

Sanger Institute spinout Kymab announces therapeutic antibody discovery technology

16 Mar 2014

Cancer therapy may be too targeted

13 Mar 2014

COSMIC celebrates its 10th anniversary

10 Mar 2014

Genome Campus appoints Director of Scientific Conferences and Engagement

8 Mar 2014

Celebrating inspirational female scientists

5 Mar 2014

Our genetics is not necessarily our destiny

05:03:14 It’s becoming clear that both nature, our genes, and nurture, the way our environment affects the way our genes work, play a part in making us who we are, explains Andrew Brown

4 Mar 2014

The Global Alliance of Genomics and Health holds first partnership meeting

3 Mar 2014

Continued advances in HIV treatment and diagnosis require shared resources

03.03.14 Complete genomes of the Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 are being sequenced and shared to create important reference material, explains Astrid Gall

2 Mar 2014

A crisper CRISPR: safer genome modification

26 Feb 2014

Strained relations

26.02.14: After 63 years of separation, two widely used mouse strains have developed a few important differences, explains Jacqui White

24 Feb 2014

Genetic screening: the voices that need to be heard

24.02.14: If implemented, opportunistic genomic screening could transform genetic practice. Anna Middleton explains the Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors’ response

24 Feb 2014

Protein essential to the spread of malaria uncovered

21 Feb 2014

Out of Africa the evolution of Plasmodium vivax

21 Feb 2014

Sequencing improves rates of prenatal diagnosis

21.02.14: Exome sequencing could be the answer to tracking down small genetic changes that cause fetal abnormalities, says Keren Carss

20 Feb 2014

Harmless bacterium could be source of antibiotic resistance

19 Feb 2014

Massive DNA sequencing reveals disease-causing mutations

19.02.14: The terabytes of genetic data collected by the UK10K project is a valuable resource that will be used by researchers for years to come

6 Feb 2014

Hunting for mutations in cancers

06.02.14: Shearwater, a new method of finding the various mutations that can develop within cancers, is inspired by the hunting tactics of its feathered namesake

5 Feb 2014

Finding what's important in our genome

4 Feb 2014

Is social media the future of social science research?

04.02.14: Anna Middleton was dubious about recruiting research participants through Facebook and Twitter but her first experience of social media has entirely converted her

30 Jan 2014

Know your enemy

20.01.14: Some types of Salmonella evolve to perfect their attack, others simply exploit human weakness. To defeat them, you have to understand their tactics, says Maria Fookes

28 Jan 2014

All creatures great and small

28.01.14: Whole-genome amplification allows researchers to sequence even microscopic creatures. However, as Tom Huckvale explains, it’s important to be aware of the errors that can arise

24 Jan 2014

Understanding the origins of cancer

24.01.14: What makes that first cell mutate, leading to a life-threatening tumour? Ludmil Alexandrov explains how large-scale studies are helping to uncover the first causes of many cancers

23 Jan 2014

11,000-year-old living dog cancer reveals its secrets

22 Jan 2014

Should we really be scared of bats?

22.01.14: Kate Baker and Alison Peel explain how sequencing can help us to gauge the risk bats really pose to humans

20 Jan 2014

How does adipose tissue cope with excess fat?

20.01.14: Some people can store excess fat while avoiding adverse metabolic effects – understanding how could help researchers in the fight against obesity, says Stefania Carobbio.

12 Jan 2014

Immune system development linked to leukaemia

10 Jan 2014

A genomic revolution in malaria research

10.01.14: Increasingly, sequencing is playing a vital role in the race to detect and contain drug-resistant strains, says Olivo Miotto

9 Jan 2014

Why is type 2 diabetes an increasing problem?

8 Jan 2014

Keeping our little friends happy

08.01.14: Intestinal microbiota can play a crucial role in keeping us healthy but first we need to look after them, says Blessing O Anonye

6 Jan 2014

Sanger Institute scientist makes Forbes' Top 30 under 30

3 Jan 2014

Throwing a spanner in the works

03.01.14: Causing genes to malfunction can help us to understand liver cancer’s complex genetic networks, explains Alistair Rust.

23 Dec 2013

Library that can determine resistance

21 Dec 2013

Genetics that protects your heart

20 Dec 2013

Review of our blogs – 2013

20.12.13: Over the past year, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute researchers have shared their passion and enthusiasm for their work to understand biology, human health and disease through genomes...

17 Dec 2013

How should we use clinical genomic data?

17.12.14: The Government's plan to sequence 100,000 people raises concerns about how genomic data is used in a clinical context to best serve patients. Ewan Birney and Caroline Wright explore the issues.

13 Dec 2013

Lost in translation

13.12.13: Mice are thought to share around 95 per cent of genes with humans. Despite this conservation and many successful studies, researchers should be cautious about conclusions drawn from mouse models, says Carla Daniela Robles-Espinoza.

10 Dec 2013

New test for chronic blood cancers

9 Dec 2013

Getting to the heart of coronary artery disease

09.12.13: When searching for the genetic causes of heart disease, Deepti Gurdasani explains, it’s important to distinguish between the lipids that cause the disease and those that are simply associated with it.

8 Dec 2013

Gene promotes one in a hundred of tumours

5 Dec 2013

Finding functions for DUF proteins

05.12.13: A group of scientists is working to characterise some of the millions of proteins designated ‘Domain of Unknown Function’. Penny Coggill explains the project and reveals some early findings.

3 Dec 2013

How malaria parasites choose between us and our evolutionary cousins

03.12.13: Madushi Wanaguru talks about the challenges of studying the host-specificity of great ape malaria parasites, and the approach used by her team to circumvent these in the lab.

2 Dec 2013

What makes the deadliest form of malaria specific to people?

28 Nov 2013

The rare diseases of mice and men

28.11.13: The daunting task of searching a genome to find the variation responsible for producing a genetic disease from among up to 40,000 variants can be simplified by combining large-scale mouse model and exome data, says Damian Smedley.

25 Nov 2013

Understanding the known unknowns of human gene annotation

25.11.13: Annotating the human genome is not a short-term endeavour and, currently, it’s difficult even to know how much work we have ahead of us, says Jonathan Mudge.

21 Nov 2013

Anti-fungal drug increases flu susceptibility

20 Nov 2013

Fred Sanger, 1918-2013

19 Nov 2013

A multi-pronged attack on malaria parasites

19.11.13: Targeting multiple life stages of the malaria parasite could help in the development of reliable vaccines, explains Madushi Wanaguru

14 Nov 2013

Exploring the other 98 per cent of the genome

14.11.13: The majority of the genome has long been seen as ‘non-coding’. Vincenza Colonna explains how large data sets are enabling scientists to explore these regions and spot beneficial variation

8 Nov 2013

Methylation linked to metabolic disease

31 Oct 2013

Scratching the surface in malaria vaccine development

31.10.13: Extracellular regions of parasites are being targeted for vaccine development. Cecile Crosnier explains how they could lead researchers to reliable malaria vaccines

30 Oct 2013

Stem cells could set up future transplant therapies

29 Oct 2013

New building set to drive translational medicine

28 Oct 2013

The enemy of my enemy is my friend

28.10.13: Some viruses are able to kill bacteria, making them helpful for scientists tackling cholera. Ana Toribio explains how a collaborative effort with Kenyan scientists is isolating and characterising potentially useful strains.

27 Oct 2013

Novel mutations define two types of bone tumour

24 Oct 2013

Cutting-edge new build for Genome Campus

24 Oct 2013

Genetic variants decrease rate of metabolism

21 Oct 2013

Fighting fat with fat

21.10.13: Brown fat could offer a solution to the obesity epidemic. Stefania Carobbio explains how stem cells are helping to speed research toward clinical trials

15 Oct 2013

Sex in Science launches web presence on Ada Lovelace Day

10 Oct 2013

Big data getting to the heart of disease

10 Oct 2013

Disrupting genes and sequencing machines

10.10.13: The Sequencing Research and Development team have their work cut out making TraDIS work on Illumina’s next-generation sequencing technology. Matthew Mayho explains the challenges

10 Oct 2013

When does a cell decide which direction to take?

8 Oct 2013

Target practice with malaria parasites

08.10.13: New Methods are being used to speed the process of identifying genes in malaria strains such as Plasmodium falciparum that are important for infection and parasite survival, explains Alena Pance

3 Oct 2013

New technique identifies novel class of cancer's drivers

1 Oct 2013

New study paves the way for single-cell genomics

01.10.13: Statistical method overcomes computational challenges at molecular biology’s new frontier

24 Sep 2013

Identifying the random mutations that make us truly unique

24.09.13: Searching for mutations that originate in sperm and egg cells is a tricky business. Art Wuster explains why and introduces DeNovoGear, a free software that will simplify the process for researchers

20 Sep 2013

MERS Co-V genomes reveal complex transmission patterns

18 Sep 2013

£25m to kick start industrial revolution in regenerative medicine

12 Sep 2013

The contribution of local animal populations to human drug resistant Salmonella infections may previously have been overstated

29 Aug 2013

Developing a method to tease pathogen genomes apart

29.08.13: There has been an explosion in genomic data, jumping genes may offer a way for researchers to keep up

28 Aug 2013

Parasitic worm genome uncovers potential drug targets

14 Aug 2013

Cancer's origins revealed

13 Aug 2013

Finding pearls in swine: how a worldwide community annotated the pig genome

13.08.13: Pigs' immune systems are similar to ours, making them a great model to understand human health and disease. But the genes' position and function was unknown, until a worldwide group of annotators took matters into their own hands

9 Aug 2013

Protein that accelerates age, brakes cancer

8 Aug 2013

Zebrafish helping fight against muscle disorders

08.08.13: Muscular dystrophy is a group of muscle wasting disorders that affects more than 70,000 children and adults in the UK. Keren Carss talks about how her research in zebrafish is beginning to unravel the underlying genetics of these debilitating disorders.

4 Aug 2013

Distinct brain disorders biologically linked

29 Jul 2013

Malaria's Flaws of attraction

29.07.13: Finding malaria vaccine targets means looking for parasite proteins that bind to red blood cells. Discovering these weak and fleeting attractions requires a special technique, explains Josefin Bartholdson

22 Jul 2013

Institute scientist to give prestigious Royal Society lecture

22 Jul 2013

Why is it hard to detect disease association in African populations?

22.07.13: Over 600,000 people die from malaria each year, mainly children under the age of five in Africa. Katja Kivinen and colleagues are trying to understand and identify the genetic variants that increase a person's risk of malaria infection.

18 Jul 2013

How mice teach us about disease

11 Jul 2013

Unique route to stem cells

8 Jul 2013

New opportunities to treat bowel cancer

1 Jul 2013

Talking DNA and disease at the Royal Society

27 Jun 2013

Relentless killer captured by art

23 Jun 2013

Getting to grips with migraine

19 Jun 2013

Sequencing the MERS coronavirus outbreak in Saudi Arabia

16 Jun 2013

Cartilage gene linked to bone cancers

14 Jun 2013

Professor Mike Stratton Knighted in the Birthday Honours list

10 Jun 2013

Cracking the secrets of the turtle’s shell

10.06.13: How researchers cracked the secrets of the turtle’s shell and answered some of evolution’s most intriguing puzzles

5 Jun 2013

Alliance will build data-sharing future

4 Jun 2013

Picking cancer apart, one cell at a time

03.06.13: We can learn much about how cancer develops by studying the genomes of individual cancer cells, explains Peter Van Loo

29 May 2013

Malaria's severity reset by mosquito

21 May 2013

Discovering how we evolved – Evolving genes lead to more evolving genes

21.05.13: Qasim Ayub explains how a new technique he helped to develop is finding signatures of selection in human genomes and revealing surprising discoveries about European development

17 May 2013

Cocktail parties and cancer genomes: Separating out the mutational processes behind cancer development

17.05.13: Cancer genomes contain an archaeological record of the genetic events that have led to their formation. Ludmil Alexandrov talks about his new technique that is beginning to reveal this archaeological record and unravel the processes responsible for those events.

15 May 2013

Tackling the looming epidemic of non-infectious diseases in sub-Saharan Africa

14.05.13: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity, heart disease and cancer are a substantial and rapidly growing problem in sub-Saharan Africa and are projected to overtake infectious disease as the most common cause of death in Africa in the next 20 years. Georgina Murphy speaks about her experiences collecting data on these non-infectious diseases in rural Uganda and the challenges they faced on this mammoth journey.

5 May 2013

Vaccine reduces pneumococcal disease but not bacterial population

1 May 2013

New frontiers for Chlamydia sequencing

1 May 2013: Using attractive magnetic beads to capture Chlamydia from clinical samples is a rapid and effective way to harvest this bacteria (and it's DNA) for sensitive diagnosis and tracking

28 Apr 2013

Fingerprinting malaria parasite drug resistance

25 Apr 2013

A brief history since 1953: 60 years after Crick and Watson's discovery

25 April 2013: In a break from our traditional blog style, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Crick and Watson’s discovery of the structure of DNA by taking a light-hearted look at some of major scientific breakthroughs over the past six decades.

25 Apr 2013

Two cultures: Artists and scientists inspire each other

23 Apr 2013

Does science need to be entertaining for mass-market entertainments?

23 April 2013: ‘How much ‘creative licence’ should scientists allow creatives?’ asks Darren Logan, a Faculty member of the Sanger Institute. In his blog he explains how mentoring a genetics-based computer game completely changed his mind

23 Apr 2013

Science and games - inspiring one another

21 Apr 2013

Genetics defines a distinct liver disease

18 Apr 2013

Evolving genes lead to evolving genes

17 Apr 2013

Coelacanth genome surfaces

17 Apr 2013

Family ties: Relationship between human and zebrafish genomes

17 Apr 2013

Fishing for solutions

16 Apr 2013

Biology behind blood trait signals

16 Apr 2013

Wanted: your views on genetics

12 Apr 2013

Sanger Institute - EBI single cell genomics centre

7 Apr 2013

Final chapter to 60 year old blood group mystery

7 Apr 2013

Finding genes for childhood obesity

4 Apr 2013

Unravelling the spread of a cystic fibrosis pathogen

4 April 2013: Mycobacterium abscessus infection is on the rise in CF patients. Josie Bryant talks about her research tracking the transmission of this bacterium in patients which has led to changes in infection control procedures in Papworth Hospital.

29 Mar 2013

Rise in CF patient infections explained

27 Mar 2013

Is arthritis due to DNA’s dark matter?

27 March 2013: Steven Witte explains how his fascination with the cause of autoimmune diseases such as arthritis has brought him to the Sanger Institute to study the effects of non-coding DNA [Image credit: ESA/Hubble]

13 Mar 2013

Tapeworm DNA contains drug weak spots

12 Mar 2013

No more free rides for tapeworms?

13 March 2013: Tapeworm’s leave all the hard work to their hosts. But their laziness could be their undoing. Genome sequencing has revealed that the parasites' genetic simplicity makes them extremely reliant on certain genes and processes to live, and these 'weak spots' may be vulnerable to existing drugs

27 Feb 2013

Mouse jumping genes don’t always land where they should

27 Feb 2013: piggyBac is a jumping gene that normally leaps from TTAA sequence to TTAA sequence. But, sometimes, it lands in unexpected places, causing point mutations. Zemin Ning explains how the Sanger Institute used next-generation sequencing and a lot of computing power to chase the gene around the mouse genome to understand how it works

17 Feb 2013

Dental decay: the evolution of oral diversity

15 Feb 2013

Resisting malaria

15 Feb 2013: Susana Campino explains how her lab works in partnerships to uncover the genes that make people resistant to severe malaria.

13 Feb 2013

Cause of selective male deafness discovered

13 Feb 2013: For one family at least, selective male deafness is true. A team at the Sanger Institute has discovered a mutation on the male-only Y chromosome that causes adult deafness, Yali Xue reveals…

4 Feb 2013

Chlamydia: Silent, Treacherous, Invisible?

04 Feb 2013: Bacteria that cause the sexual diseases Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea can swap DNA between their peers and hide from medical tests, explains Helena Seth-Smith. Genetic sequencing may help us penetrate their camouflage

30 Jan 2013

Fighting against the flu

29 Jan 2013

How our computers crack flu’s evolution

29 Jan 2013: Using genome sequences and computer analysis, we are able to understand the rapid evolution of the influenza virus, explains Chris Illingworth.

25 Jan 2013

Why Malaria’s Magnus is celebrated by Wales’ Wikipedia Day

25 Jan 2013: Fellow Wikipedian, Darren Logan, explains why one of our malaria researchers is honoured by Jimmy Wales with Wikipedia Day

22 Jan 2013

Director awarded prestigious prize

14 Jan 2013

Chronic disease research awarded funding

10 Jan 2013

Finding cancer culprits' fingerprints

10 Jan 2013

How do we talk to parasites?

10 Jan 2013: Adam Reid explains how his new approah to understand how genes control host-parasite interactions could be used to discover truly novel interactions and identify entirely new aspects of biology.

9 Jan 2013

A recipe for better fry and better fish

9 Jan 2013: A simple addition to Zebrafish food that boosts survival and can reduce numbers of animals in research, wins NC3Rs poster prize explains Nicola Goodwin…

7 Jan 2013

One small piece of a genetic puzzle

7 Jan 2013: Jacqui White explains how the Institute work on blood tests has helped to pick out a gene defect in patients with a thyroid disease…

2 Jan 2013

Even great mutations need a little help from their friends

21 Dec 2012

A key to a promising malaria vaccine

21 Dec 2012: A search for key interactions between the malaria parasite and human red blood cells has thrown up a promising vaccine candidate, explains Leyla Bustamante…

20 Dec 2012

Getting to the guts of IBD

20 Dec 2012: Alan Walker discusses his recent work demonstrating the mechanism by which the transcription factor, T-bet, regulates immue responses in the gut. Alan and his colleagues found that the intestinal disease, ulcerative colitis can develop when mice lack this trancription factor, in the presence of Helicobacter typhlonius.

13 Dec 2012

Getting to the root of transposable elements in mice

13 Dec 2012; Thomas Keane talks about his recent study developing a near complete catalogue of transposable element variation across 18 mouse strains.

11 Dec 2012

No need to prepare

10 Dec 2012

Single gene defect wipes out immunity

9 Dec 2012

Bugs without borders

6 Dec 2012

Nobody's perfect

6 Dec 2012

Resetting genetic instructions

5 Dec 2012

A leap forward for red blood cell formation

2 Dec 2012

Insights into the genetic causes of coronary artery disease and heart attacks

30 Nov 2012

Making messengers work hard for their money

30 Nov 2012: Selected segments of genes used in distinct tissues can play an important role in tissue integrity, in tissue control and in disease argues Marija Buljan …

29 Nov 2012

Biology behind brain development disorder

23 Nov 2012

One for all, all for one

23 Nov 2012: Astrid Gall talks about her research into HIV and her recent study into designing the first universal method for HIV-1 genome sequencing.

19 Nov 2012

The pig genome

16 Nov 2012

Transforming Tuberculosis control

14 Nov 2012

Bacterial DNA sequence used to map an infection outbreak

6 Nov 2012

New national stem cell resource

2 Nov 2012

How did humankind conquer the globe?

02 Nov 2012: Wei Wei discusses her interest into variation within the Y chromosome and her recent study on the expansion of of the human population.

31 Oct 2012

Gut reaction: The evolution of IBD

31 Oct 2012

The fruit of 1000 genomes

29 Oct 2012

The biggest expansion of man in prehistory?

25 Oct 2012

C'est difficile

11 Oct 2012

Alex Bateman takes on protein sequence services at the European Bioinformatics Institute

8 Oct 2012

Award puts Africa diabetes under the microscope

4 Oct 2012

Babies learn the smell of mum

4 Oct 2012

Genetic Analysis of Eating Disorder Related Symptoms, Behaviours and Personality Traits

04 Oct 2012: Vesna Boraska talks about her recent study, identifying possible genetics variants associated with eating disorder related symptoms, behaviors and traits.

30 Sep 2012

Novel pathogen epidemic identified in sub-Saharan Africa

25 Sep 2012

A Cornucopia of Candidates for Deafness

25 Sept 2012: Morag Lewis talks about a review she has had published in Cell. The study looked at genes and investigated how the loss of those genes affected the fly. Losing some of the genes resulted in a totally deaf fly, while others affected just some aspects of the fly's hearing.

21 Sep 2012

Chipping away at the genetics of PBC

21 Sept 2012: Jimmy Liu disscusses his recent research discovering and refining genetic regions linked to susceptibility for primary biliary cirrhosis, or PBC, an immune-mediated disease that causes the progressive destruction of liver bile ducts.

21 Sep 2012

Royal Society recognises Institute International Researcher

19 Sep 2012

Sanger paper is 2011 best of Journal of Biological Chemistry

19 Sept 2012: A team from the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute have identified a seventh, unusual proteolytic enzyme in an asparagine catalytic type. This study has been picked as one of 20 best papers published by the Journal of Biological Chemistry in 2011, out of a total of 4,000 papers.

14 Sep 2012

Is it as plain as the nose on one's face?

13 Sept 2012: Have you ever considered whether we all sense the world the same way? Darren Logan at the Sanger Institute studies how our genes influence how we perceive the environment around us, and how our brains makes sense of our senses.

12 Sep 2012

Walking a thousand miles starts with one step

11 Sept 2012: The Malaria Programme at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute is carrying out research addressing questions about the continuing emergence of drug resistance in malaria. Knowing which proteins in a cell are palmitoylated, specific protein-membrane interactions, can give important clues about their regulation or function—clues that can be used to piece together new ideas about how cells work.

9 Sep 2012

Genetic clues to the causes of primary biliary cirrhosis

7 Sep 2012

Muscle cells’ social etiquette: are they aloof, friendly or just good talkers?

7 Sept 2012: In the embryo, muscle cells grow and knit together to eventually make up the size and shape of every muscle in the adult body. How do they do this? The answer is vital for treating muscular disease, because discovering how muscle is made will help to us understand how to fix the molecular machinery in muscles that don’t work.

5 Sep 2012

Google Earth of Biomedical Research

5 Sep 2012

Human genome far more active than thought

3 Sep 2012

Handle with care: animal husbandry’s virtuous circle

3 Sept 2012: Jacqui White, from the Institute's Mouse Genetics team, describes how our researchers are committed to treating their animals in the most humane, caring and sensitive way possible ...

2 Sep 2012

Near and far, nature and nurture

29 Aug 2012

Genetic clues to ‘Hair today, gone tomorrow’ found

29 Aug 2012: Stavroula Kanoni, a researcher in Human Genetics, describes the hunt for genes associated with male pattern baldness

17 Aug 2012

Seq and ye shall find...

25 Jul 2012: Malaria researcher, Lia Chappell, spreads the word on how choosing the right approach can make your experiments using RNA-seq much more successful

13 Aug 2012

Knowing zebrafish, knowing you – understanding zebrafish genomes, unlocking human health

30 Jul 2012: Understanding how the zebrafish genome works allows us to understand human health and disease

12 Aug 2012

Metabolic MAGIC

5 Aug 2012

Out of Europe

2 Aug 2012

Close to the bone

19 Jul 2012

Sanger Institute discussed the value of EU funding with local MEP Vicky Ford

19 Jul 2012: Institute researchers and administrators met with Vicky Ford MEP to influence the shape of future EU funding of research projects

18 Jul 2012

Colin’s Colony Collecting “Colinator” minimises mindless monotony

A new robot created at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute will spare the hands, eyes and minds of researchers from RSI, strain and monotony respectively

10 Jul 2012

Royal Society recognises Institute researcher

3 Jul 2012

New genetic culprits found in world-leading study of osteoarthritis

26 Jun 2012

Sanger Institute Scientist receives the Eppendorf Award for Young European Investigators

Dr Elizabeth Murchison has been given the award for her ongoing research into the deadly transmissible facial cancer that is spreading among Tasmanian devils and threatening the survival of the species

25 Jun 2012

Cause of rare growth disease discovered

21 Jun 2012

Exploring Salmonella’s deadly sub-Saharan adaptation

A distinct strain of Salmonella Typhimurium, has emerged as a new pathogenic group in sub-Saharan Africa, and might have adapted to the susceptible human population in these regions

21 Jun 2012

Four Institute researchers have made it to Reuters most influential list

Four of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute researchers been cited by Thomson Reuters as being among the top 15 most influential scientific researchers of 2011. Professor Mike Stratton, Dr Andy Futreal, Dr Peter Campbell and Dr Panos Deloukas, according to citations tracked during 2011, recorded some of the highest numbers of “Hot Papers” published over the preceding two years.

21 Jun 2012

Gene responsible for diarrhoeal disease transmission identified

Researchers identify a key gene that allows C. difficile – a diarrhoea-causing bacterium found in hospitals and across the developing world – to be transferred from person to person [Image Credit: CDC/Dr. Gilda Jones]

21 Jun 2012

Genomics and African Queens

19 Jun 2012

Creating a gold-standard, not a rotten, tomato genome

We shared our experiences and knowledge from producing animal reference genomes to enable plant genomes researchers to deliver high-quality, standardised data for the first gold standard tomato reference genome

18 Jun 2012

Fourth Institute bioinformatician wins open access award

A fourth Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute alumnus – Heng Li – has won the Benjamin Franklin Award for Open Access in the Life Sciences. Remarkably the Institute has trained and developed more than one third of this award's winners and, even more remarkably, all four winners have been trained in Richard Durbin’s research group

13 Jun 2012

New build for bioinformatics

13 Jun 2012

Putting parasites on the world map

13 Jun 2012

Tracking MRSA in real time

11 Jun 2012

Moving towards mitigating migraines

8 Jun 2012

Why resist insulin?

17 May 2012

Deciphering the life history of 21 breast cancers

17 May 2012

Mutational processes behind breast cancer

17 May 2012

Untangling the development of breast cancer

16 May 2012

Understanding breast cancer

11 May 2012

Institute researcher is sequence-squeezing champ

29 Apr 2012

Gene against pancreatic cancer discovered

23 Apr 2012

Rare muscular dystrophy gene mutations discovered

20 Apr 2012

Sanger Institute scientist elected Fellow of the Royal Society

19 Apr 2012

Key genes that switch off with ageing identified

28 Mar 2012

The path to personalised cancer treatment

25 Mar 2012

Genetics of flu susceptibility

22 Mar 2012

Subtle differences can lead to major changes in parasites

12 Mar 2012

Institute researcher awarded Brain Prize

11 Mar 2012

Tracing the UK's No1 sexually transmitted infection

8 Mar 2012

Sanger's shining stars

7 Mar 2012

What have we got in common with a Gorilla?

28 Feb 2012

Improvements for animal research

26 Feb 2012

Elusive platelet count and limb development gene discovered

19 Feb 2012

Director discusses cancer evolution at prestigious conference

16 Feb 2012

Preventing the devil's downfall

16 Feb 2012

When is a gene not a gene?

7 Feb 2012

Sanger researcher awarded the ISTT Prize

2 Feb 2012

Paths to Cardiovascular Diseases and Type 2 Diabetes

31 Jan 2012

What are your views on what happens to your genomic information?

25 Jan 2012

Genetic screens bring new hope for tackling sleeping sickness

12 Jan 2012

New light on human evolution

16 Dec 2011

International Consortium for future pandemics

13 Dec 2011

The mystery behind the building of muscle

12 Dec 2011

European Research Council Award to Institute Researcher

2 Dec 2011

Celebrating the Wellcome Trust's 75th Anniversary

30 Nov 2011

From gene to function

9 Nov 2011

Malaria's Achilles' heel revealed?

6 Nov 2011

Researchers discover genes involved in colorectal cancer

27 Oct 2011

Different paths to drug resistance in Leishmania

26 Oct 2011

Genetic cause for hearing impairment discovered

20 Oct 2011

Sanger Institute researcher honoured by EMBO

12 Oct 2011

Clean correction of a patient's genetic mutation

12 Oct 2011

Data centre shutdown for green power source upgrade

10 Oct 2011

Seeking superior stem cells

7 Oct 2011

Scientists identify cause of severe hypoglycaemia

3 Oct 2011

Cutting to the heart of swine genomics

29 Sep 2011

Genetic library will speed up disease research

27 Sep 2011

Researchers uncover gene associated with blood cancers

14 Sep 2011

Researchers develop mouse genetic blueprint

31 Aug 2011

New biochemical discoveries into developing disease

25 Aug 2011

Third genetic link to osteoarthritis discovered

24 Aug 2011

Cholera pandemic's source discovered

22 Aug 2011

Real-time genomics applied to fatal outbreak

16 Aug 2011

Molecular relay race drives cell cycle

15 Aug 2011

Unique immune system in Atlantic cod

8 Aug 2011

New resource to unlock the role of microRNAs

25 Jul 2011

Elusive gene discovered that makes platelets grey

18 Jul 2011

Dr Richard Durbin awarded Fellowship by the International Society for Computational Biology

15 Jul 2011

Institute researcher awarded Cancer Research UK Fellowship

13 Jul 2011

New elegant technique used for genomic archaeology

11 Jul 2011

ICGC releases new genomic data on cancer ahead of schedule

1 Jul 2011

New approach to link genome-wide association signals to biological function

15 Jun 2011

A knockout resource for mouse genetics

14 Jun 2011

Many migraines may have a common genetic basis

12 Jun 2011

We are all mutants

8 Jun 2011

Bone cancer, from lab to clinic

3 Jun 2011

New strain of MRSA discovered

19 May 2011

'Master switch' gene for obesity and diabetes discovered

27 Apr 2011

Zebrafish provide insight into congenital muscular dystrophies

21 Apr 2011

A User's Guide to the Encyclopaedia of DNA Elements

27 Mar 2011

The gene processes that drive acute myeloid leukaemia

24 Mar 2011

Professor Seth Grant honoured by election to the Fellowship of the Royal Society of Edinburgh

22 Mar 2011

Deciphering Developmental Disorders

13 Mar 2011

Consortium finds chronic liver cirrhosis clues

10 Mar 2011

Diabetes drug boosts survival rate for melioidosis patients

8 Mar 2011

Towards a novel non-invasive prenatal diagnostic test for Down syndrome

6 Mar 2011

Research doubles number of known genetic markers for coronary heart disease

6 Feb 2011

Research links 29 genome regions with common form of inflammatory bowel disease

2 Feb 2011

Study doubles number of known human structural variants

27 Jan 2011

Staying one strep ahead

26 Jan 2011

Filaments, fibres and muscles in transparent embryos

19 Jan 2011

Research provides new kidney cancer clues

6 Jan 2011

Punctuated evolution in cancer genomes

20 Dec 2010

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is not caused by XMRV

19 Dec 2010

The genetic basis of brain diseases

26 Nov 2010

Genetic markers for blood clot found

21 Nov 2010

39 new genetic associations with Crohn's disease

17 Nov 2010

Sanger Institute researcher among first to receive Rutherford Discovery Fellowship

7 Nov 2010

Sanger researcher awarded Cancer Research UK prize

27 Oct 2010

1000 Genomes Project publishes analysis of completed pilot phase

27 Oct 2010

Forces for cancer spread: genomic instability and evolutionary selection

19 Oct 2010

When one is not enough: finding hyper-sensitive genes

14 Oct 2010

PiggyBac joins armoury in fight against cancer

10 Oct 2010

Apple-shaped or pear-shaped, it's partly down to your genes

29 Sep 2010

Is explaining variation in height a tall order?

22 Sep 2010

Researchers suggest human malignant malaria originated in gorillas

16 Sep 2010

Completed genome is first step to tackling Tasmanian devil facial tumours

9 Sep 2010

New insights into type 1 diabetes risk

1 Sep 2010

Finding variants in the human genome

29 Aug 2010

First genetic link to common migraine exposed

25 Aug 2010

The Leena Peltonen School of Human Genomics

4 Aug 2010

Uncovering the heart of genetic influence on cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood

15 Jul 2010

Largest study of genomes and cancer treatments releases first results

12 Jul 2010

Kymab and Wellcome Trust sign £20 million financing agreement

28 Jun 2010

Decoding diabetes

24 Jun 2010

Celebrating a 'decade of discovery' since the Human Genome Project

24 Jun 2010

Wellcome Trust launches study of 10,000 human genomes in UK

21 Jun 2010

1000 Genomes Project releases data from pilot projects on path to providing database for 2,500 human genomes

10 Jun 2010

Making cancer killers

17 May 2010

Professor Mike Stratton appointed new Director

21 Apr 2010

Institute researcher wins Benjamin Franklin award

14 Apr 2010

Cataloguing cancer codes

13 Apr 2010

Sequence is scaffold to study sleeping sickness

12 Apr 2010

Bacterial evolution then and there and here and now

8 Apr 2010

CNVs close up

1 Apr 2010

Proteins at the heart of life

1 Apr 2010

Who speaks to whom in stem cell biology?

31 Mar 2010

CNVs and common disease

31 Mar 2010

From alpaca to zebra finch

31 Mar 2010

Movies for the human genome

31 Mar 2010

Sanger institute papers in Nature

29 Mar 2010

Allan Bradley leads translation opportunity

18 Mar 2010

Sanger Institute Scientist Awarded Cancer Research Prize

11 Mar 2010

Professor Leena Peltonen-Palotie: 1952-2010

10 Mar 2010

Exploring genetic effects in cells

17 Feb 2010

Sorting the drivers from the passengers in the cancer genome

26 Jan 2010

Gentlemen or farmers?

21 Jan 2010

Tracking MRSA evolution and transmission

17 Jan 2010

From biological basics to diabetes discovery

6 Jan 2010

Unravelling kidney cancer

23 Dec 2009

Broken genomes behind breast cancers

22 Dec 2009

Sanger Institute first for impact

16 Dec 2009

Lung Cancer and melanoma laid bare

16 Dec 2009

One mutation every day

16 Dec 2009

Signatures of sunlight

7 Dec 2009

Scientists reveal malaria parasites' tactics for outwitting our immune systems

6 Dec 2009

Genetic studies reveal new causes of severe obesity in childhood

2 Dec 2009

Ten years of 22

30 Nov 2009

Biology of emergent Salmonella exposed

3 Nov 2009

Senior Sanger Institute researcher honoured

2 Nov 2009

First draft of the pig genome

21 Oct 2009

Sanger Institute duo among 66 honoured

16 Oct 2009

TraDIS technique tackles typhoid

11 Oct 2009

Blood counts are clues to human disease

8 Oct 2009

Standards for a new genomic age

7 Oct 2009

Jumping genes, gene loss and genome dark matter

25 Sep 2009

Candida can do less

11 Sep 2009

Sparking debate on data and resource sharing

1 Sep 2009

Senior Sanger Institute Investigator awarded Carter medal

27 Aug 2009

We are all mutants

30 Jul 2009

Genetic variations produce different effects, depending on the tissue

21 Jul 2009

Cdiff spores spread superbug

15 Jul 2009

Complete fluke? Genome sequencers crack parasite genome

10 Jul 2009

Prestigious award for Sanger Institute researcher

8 Jul 2009

Visit by His Royal Highness The Duke of York

14 Jun 2009

Knockout results for mouse genetics

4 Jun 2009

Scientists identify gene for deadly inherited lung disease

31 May 2009

First testicular cancer risk genes found

24 May 2009

Genetic study of malaria

21 May 2009

Chlamydia that avoids diagnosis

20 May 2009

UnMASCing diseases of the brain

15 May 2009

Karen Steel elected Fellow of the Royal Society

13 May 2009

Prestigious awards in microbiology

1 May 2009

Switches, circuits, brain and disease

19 Apr 2009

The genetic X-factor

16 Apr 2009

DECIPHERing human disease

12 Apr 2009

New insights into hearing loss

8 Apr 2009

Adding factors

3 Apr 2009

The lowdown on height genes

29 Mar 2009

Getting down to basics

27 Mar 2009

UK scientific breakthrough to help animals worldwide

19 Mar 2009

Genome-wide association scan reveals the landscape of inherited variability in response to warfarin dose

18 Mar 2009

G2C Online launches

23 Feb 2009

Could Genetics Improve Warfarin Dosing?

11 Feb 2009

Simple yeast leads to understanding ourselves

9 Feb 2009

The genetics of heart disease

5 Feb 2009

The nonsense in our genes

18 Jan 2009

The worst luck in the world?

23 Dec 2008

A new search for cancer treatments

17 Dec 2008

Genetic messages in Wikipedia

16 Dec 2008

£3m funding to decode genomes of 17 mouse strains

14 Dec 2008

Brain Background to Body Mass

7 Dec 2008

Discovery of new gene associated with diabetes risk suggests link with body clock

7 Dec 2008

Genes for nine health indicators

7 Dec 2008

The Genetic Heart of the Lipids

27 Nov 2008

What drives cancer?

24 Nov 2008

Next-generation technology provides human genome sequence

18 Nov 2008

The International Cancer Genome Consortium announces the launch of eight Cancer Genome Projects

6 Nov 2008

DNA chunks, chimps and humans

31 Oct 2008

Oblivious Oblivion

30 Oct 2008

The Alphabet, Tyrian Purple...And Genes

8 Oct 2008

Genome of a monkey human-malaria parasite

17 Sep 2008

Maps of Structural Variation released for Cancer Cell Lines

11 Sep 2008

Making the Most of Genetic Data

27 Jul 2008

Defining DNA Differences to Track and Tackle Typhoid

16 Jul 2008

Sanger Institute to help boost infection research

2 Jul 2008

Fifteen human genomes each week

11 Jun 2008

Three Sequencing Companies Join 1000 Genomes Project

8 Jun 2008

Origins of the brain

16 May 2008

Mike Stratton, co-Head of Cancer Genome Project at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Elected to the Royal Society

15 May 2008

Connecting Cancer Genes

11 May 2008

Mutant gene causes epilepsy, intellectual disability in women

7 May 2008

Emerging superbug genome sequenced

4 May 2008

Second Genetic Link to Weight and Obesity

1 May 2008

Genome Campus has Top Two in the UK

29 Apr 2008

Global Genetics Consortium Sets Sights On Cancer

29 Apr 2008

Seeing the enemy up close

14 Apr 2008

Largest ever study of genetics of common disease just got bigger

27 Mar 2008

Crusader Y chromosomes in Lebanon

22 Feb 2008

Novel method to reveal drug targets

8 Feb 2008

Scientists reveal a new target to fight bad cholesterol

22 Jan 2008

International Consortium Announces the 1000 Genomes Project

14 Jan 2008

Taking Sequencing Forward

7 Jan 2008

Changing patterns of infection

6 Dec 2007

Thirty years on: one human genome a day

2 Dec 2007

Mutant sperm guide clinicians to new diseases

29 Nov 2007

Inside DNA

24 Oct 2007

Largest-ever Alzheimer's gene study underway

21 Oct 2007

Major genetic breakthrough for ankylosing spondylitis brings treatment hope

17 Oct 2007

Consortium Publishes Phase II Map of Human Genetic Variation

12 Oct 2007

Cambridge scientists in world's first major genome screen for osteoarthritis

9 Oct 2007

Researchers Expand Efforts to Explore Functional Landscape of the Human Genome

16 Sep 2007

Genes and disease? It's what you do with what you have

22 Aug 2007

Leader in Human Genetics to join Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute

6 Jul 2007

Canadian, British and American scientists launch major new genome partnership to catalogue all common copy number variations

17 Jun 2007

Potent possibilities for parasite attack

13 Jun 2007

The Wider View from a Detailed Focus

6 Jun 2007

Largest ever study of genetics of common diseases

23 May 2007

Botulism bug has few genome wrinkles

26 Apr 2007

Minuscule molecules pack a powerful punch

8 Mar 2007

Molecular mechanism of learning

7 Mar 2007

Drivers and Passengers on the Road to Cancer

8 Feb 2007

Which Genome Variants Matter?

11 Jan 2007

Stealth technology maintains fitness after sex

22 Dec 2006

A Hot ACT

10 Dec 2006

The Weapons in Malaria's Evolutionary Arms Race

24 Nov 2006

ABC of a Health Problem: Antibiotics, Bacteria and Carriers

22 Nov 2006

Missing pages from the "Book of Life"

3 Nov 2006

Prime Minister praises 'outstanding contribution'

29 Oct 2006

Towards a Global Map of Epigenetic Variation

4 Oct 2006

Sanger Institute Research Strategy

24 Sep 2006

Molecular Tags to catch Common Killers

7 Sep 2006

Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute receives award from US National Institutes of Health

21 Jul 2006

Hub genes

20 Jul 2006

Giving worms a taste of their own medicine

25 Jun 2006

Looking for weaknesses in difficult difficile

2 Jun 2006

Nodules, nitrogen and nature

1 Jun 2006

International collaboration to boost genome research in developing countries

17 May 2006

Genome doesn't start with 'G'

15 May 2006

Uncovering Gene Functions With A New Vertebrate Model

21 Apr 2006

Mammoths Maketh Man

21 Mar 2006

TraceSearch - Seeking among sequences

10 Mar 2006

Outsmarting the Smartie Bug

9 Mar 2006

When Less is More

24 Feb 2006

Antibiotic Resistance Advance in Asia

27 Jan 2006

Identity Swap

18 Jan 2006

UnMASCing Machines in the Brain

17 Jan 2006

Around the World in 800 Billion Bases

16 Jan 2006

International Partnership to Sequence the Pig Genome

25 Dec 2005

Sifting through the Genome Baggage

21 Dec 2005

Tackling the Basis (and Bases) of Disease

21 Dec 2005

Ubiquitous, Essential ... but Deadly

16 Dec 2005

Using Maps to Find Managers

26 Oct 2005

International Consortium Completes Map Of Human Genetic Variation

14 Oct 2005

Wellcome Trust Genome Campus Extension Opened

14 Oct 2005

Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute has major role in EU initiative to understand the genetic make-up of human diseases

28 Sep 2005

Researchers set to find 'genetic signposts' for eight diseases

11 Aug 2005

A giant among viruses could delay ageing and the effects of terminal diseases

14 Jul 2005

Triple Disease Sequencing

30 Jun 2005

Cattle Parasite Code Cracked

5 May 2005

The Constitution of a New Model Army

4 May 2005

The cryptic past of Madagascar

3 May 2005

New insights into Chlamydial Infection

4 Apr 2005

Deletion, Duplication and Detail

16 Mar 2005

What Sex did to the X - and Why

3 Mar 2005

Genome centres combine forces to validate a gene set for biomedical research

23 Feb 2005

DNA of the tissue destroyer

3 Feb 2005

COSMIC First Anniversary

13 Dec 2004

International HapMap Consortium Releases All Data to the Public

23 Nov 2004

Genomic Bookmarks Uncovered

26 Oct 2004

Top Award to Sanger Scientist

20 Oct 2004

The finished human genome

29 Sep 2004

A Switch for Lung Cancer

14 Sep 2004

Getting a Grip on the Great Mimicker

4 Jul 2004

MICER: a resource to help understand disease

24 Jun 2004

Superbug's Pick'n'Mix DNA

28 May 2004

Richard Durbin, Deputy Director of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Elected to the Royal Society

27 May 2004

One-tenth of our genome in one day: from sequence to disease to evolution

1 Apr 2004

Number 13 - unlucky for genes?

4 Feb 2004

COSMIC assault on cancer

18 Dec 2003

Mapping A Road To Understanding Human Health

3 Nov 2003

Sanger's Celestial Spiral Staircase

23 Oct 2003

Largest bite at the human genome

15 Oct 2003

New Wellcome Trust Campus Build 'Tops Out'

7 Oct 2003

Epigenomics And The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute Launch Human Epigenome Project To Follow EU-Pilot Study

14 Apr 2003

The Finished Human Genome - Wellcome To The Genomic Age

21 Feb 2003

Undercover Infective - Cracking the Code of a Quiet Killer

5 Dec 2002

The Measure Of Man

7 Nov 2002

Plans to extend leading Genome Campus get go-ahead

7 Oct 2002

Sir John Sulston awarded the 2002 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine

3 Oct 2002

Double Success In Fight Against Malaria

5 Aug 2002

Maps Of Mice - And Men

9 Jun 2002

Scientists Identify Gene Involved In 70 Percent Of Melanomas

13 May 2002

Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute's Director Honoured: Allan Bradley Elected to Royal Society

9 May 2002

Scientists sequence Nature's antibiotic factory

6 May 2002

International Team of Researchers Assembles Draft Sequence of Mouse Genome

16 Apr 2002

Wellcome Trust Proposal To Extend Genome Campus

20 Mar 2002

MHC Haplotype Consortium Web Resource

1 Mar 2002

The complete genome of Mycobacterium bovis has been sequenced

21 Feb 2002

Humble yeast to help tackle cancer

20 Dec 2001

Dermatitis, Diabetes, Dementia:

25 Oct 2001

Typhoid fever bug sequence raises hope of complete eradication

15 Oct 2001

Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute moves to new era

4 Oct 2001

Black Death unveiled

16 May 2001

Top international award for British genome champion

8 May 2001

Of mice and men - First phase of mouse genome sequencing project completed

26 Apr 2001

Wellcome Trust promotes open door policy of human genome treasure chest

21 Feb 2001

Leprosy genome shows massive gene decay

15 Feb 2001

Mouse genome data available in public databases

11 Feb 2001

British science targets nearly half of world's genetic diseases

11 Feb 2001

Comparison of draft human sequence versions from the public and private domain

11 Feb 2001

Human Genome Project Centres

11 Feb 2001

Human Genome Project shows the wonder and the mystery of humankind

11 Feb 2001

Ten facts from the Human Genome Project

8 Jan 2001

Dr John Sulston Knighted in the New Year Honours list

21 Nov 2000

Sanger Centre to sequence zebrafish genome in new Wellcome Trust Initiative

6 Oct 2000

Public-Private Consortium to Accelerate Sequencing of Mouse Genome

20 Jul 2000

Wellcome Trust Announces Major Investment in Genome Bioinformatics

26 Jun 2000

Commentators' Views on the Announcement of the First Draft of the Human Genome

26 Jun 2000

Completion of draft human genome: press pack

26 Jun 2000

Human Genome Project Centres

26 Jun 2000

Human Genome Project Helps Child Birth Defects

26 Jun 2000

Human Genome Project Helps Identify Skin Disease Genes

26 Jun 2000

Human Genome Project may help find treatment for muscular dystrophy

26 Jun 2000

International Human Genome Sequencing Consortium Announces "Working Draft" of Human Genome

26 Jun 2000

Past Great Discoveries

26 Jun 2000

The Future's Genomic

26 Jun 2000

The History of the UK Genome Project

26 Jun 2000

The first draft of the Book of Humankind has been read

17 May 2000

Wellcome Trust Appoints New Sanger Centre Director

8 May 2000

A collaboration between the Sanger Centre and the EBI adds critical annotation to sequence data from the Human Genome Project

8 May 2000

Public Consortium Launches Final Phase of Human Genome Sequencing: 85 percent of Human Genome Sequence Assembled and Available to the Public

3 May 2000

Largest grant to study horse disease

26 Apr 2000

Beowulf announces £3 million of new funding for pathogen sequencing

13 Apr 2000

The complete genome of the leprosy bacillus has been sequenced

29 Mar 2000

Meningitis Bacterium Code Cracked

29 Mar 2000

Two-thirds of Human Genome Given to Researchers Worldwide

14 Mar 2000

Wellcome applauds USA and UK governments' commitment to free sequence data

7 Mar 2000

Genome talks collapse over commercial ownership

10 Feb 2000

Scientists reveal clues to food poisoning bug

6 Jan 2000

New research will tackle causes of disease from the UK to the tropics

1 Dec 1999

Scientists open first chapter of the book of life with decoding of human chromosome

20 Oct 1999

A Revolutionary Project To Identify Cancer Genes

15 May 1999

UK & America accelerate Human Genome Project for year 2000

10 Dec 1998

The first sequence of an animal genome is essentially complete

1 Oct 1998

Genome of typhoid strain to be tackled

13 May 1998

Wellcome Trust Announces Major Increase in Human Genome Sequencing

Press Office

If you need help or have any queries, please contact us using the following details

Emily Mobley
Head of Media Relations
+44 (0)7748 379849
Email: emily.mobley@sanger.ac.uk

Press Office
Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton,
Cambridgeshire, CB10 1SA, UK
+44 (0)7748 379849

Email: press.office@sanger.ac.uk

 
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