THE Shenzhen-based genomics company, BGI, has launched a laboratory in Brisbane, Australia, where it will operate its BGISEQ-500 genomics sequencer to help unlock secrets to save the Reef, improve grain production, refine medical diagnostics and safeguard the health of elite athletes.

It is the only genomics sequencer of its kind in the southern hemisphere, according to a Xinhua report Monday, quoting a source from BGI.

BGI Australia’s research will focus on health, medicine, environment and agriculture, due to the plentiful resources in the country, according to BGI executive vice president Yu Duncan at a ceremony marking the official launch of BGI’s new southern hemisphere genomics laboratory and unveiling the sequencer, BGISEQ-500.

Many of the projects that will flow from BGI Australia’s arrangements with leading research and industry teams will utilize the BGISEQ-500 sequencer. From a small slide containing a sample of genetic material from any living organism — for example, coral, millet, and animal or human tissue — the device can provide a complete genetic map that allows BGI scientists to identify the important characteristics hidden inside DNA. According to BGI Australia director Yang Bicheng, the BGISEQ-500 analyzes genetic materials accurately, flexibly, effectively and at a low cost.

BGI also signed cooperation memorandums with the University of Queensland (UQ) and the University of Melbourne. BGI will collaborate with the University of Melbourne in building a comprehensive, world-class program and a joint center for infectious diseases. The relationship will also include a network of international partners as well as educational exchanges between BGI and the university.

“We’re very excited about consolidating our cooperation and collaborations, which we initiated in 2009, and are focused on translating genomics research into new and improved tools to control parasitic diseases,” said Professor Robin Gasser, director of research at the University of Melbourne’s Veterinary School.

Meanwhile, UQ’s Center for Advanced Imaging will collaborate with BGI on a project that is expected to boost the center’s research, development and commercialization, according to the center’s director, Professor David Reutens.

“It will combine anatomical imaging data from Australia’s first ultra-high-field 7T MRI with whole genome sequencing data from participants who have intractable focal epilepsy,” Professor Reutens said. “By using this approach, we aim to develop early diagnostic tools for this debilitating disease and for a range of other clinically significant disorders.” (Han Ximin)