Chen Siqi vankochensq@163.com THE prospect of every individual having a mapped genetic profile to guide their lives is becoming increasingly tangible, according to Li Bin, vice president of BGI Group, a heavyweight in Chinese genomics. This vision is steadily materializing thanks to a growing understanding of precise preventative measures and the declining costs of genetic sequencing tests. Li shared this perspective during an interview at the BGI Center, the company’s global headquarters, in Yantian District. During a tour of the center, visitors observed a graphical representation illustrating a red line depicting the decreasing cost of gene sequencing and a blue line indicating the rising number of individuals who have undergone genetic profiling. This trend underscores the growing global embrace of genetic technology. Established in 1999, BGI Group has evolved to include various subsidiaries and research institutes that cover the entire gene sequencing industry spectrum. More than 20 years ago, scientists from six countries dedicated 13 years and US$3.8 billion to completely sequence the whole genome of a single individual under the Human Genome Project, and BGI was established to participate in this project. Today, with technological advancements, the cost of sequencing an individual’s entire genome using ultra high-throughput sequencers has dropped to less than US$100. One such sequencer can process up to 50,000 whole genome sequencing tests annually. This achievement is attributed to the sequencing technology and equipment developed by MGI Tech, a spinoff of BGI that’s a publicly listed company. In 2023, MGI Tech launched the DNBSEQ-T20x2 machines. Fueled by the company’s core technologies, MGI Tech received the prestigious China Patent Gold Award. A critical aspect of this technology is the chip design, which significantly enhances sequencing quality and accessibility. When talking about the global impact, a representative from MGI Tech said, “Our T20 machines have garnered six domestic and international awards and secured two major orders from prominent firms in Europe and the Middle East within a month.” Li emphasized that prioritizing precise prevention over treatment will enhance overall health, extend lifespans, and significantly reduce the burden on community healthcare systems. He envisions a future where gene sequencing becomes commonplace, benefiting humanity as a whole. |