Public consultation on the translation of 'omics'-based tests

The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) is seeking feedback on the document ‘Principles for the translation of ‘omics’-based tests from discovery to health care’.

The document is a draft framework (and accompanying principles) to guide the development and application of ‘omics’-based tests, focusing on genomic testing. It was developed by the NHMRC’s Human Genetics Advisory Committee in consultation with stakeholders including researchers, clinicians, bioinformaticians, ethicists and consumers.

According to NHMRC CEO Professor Warwick Anderson, omics-based technologies, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, epigenomics and proteomics, “have the capacity to deliver more effective and better-targeted treatments and improve screening for genetic disorders”.

“Over the last six years, we have seen the cost of sequencing the human genome go from around $10 million to a few thousand dollars, spawning the commercialisation of genetic testing,” Professor Anderson continued.

“This is an area that is continuing to evolve and grow, with other omics-based testing also on the rise. It is timely for Australia to agree to adopt principles to protect interests of consumers and to ensure research integrity.”

The principles cover the passage of omics-based discoveries from the research setting through to clinical care, and are primarily intended for use by all those involved in the development and use of omics-based tests. According to Professor Anderson, “it is important to introduce these technologies into healthcare in an orderly, evidence-based, ethical manner”.

Interested members of the public are now invited to make a submission to NHMRC by answering the questions listed in the online form. Submissions close on 1 September at 5 pm AEST.