UCONN hosted a free event honoring Henrietta Lacks on September 24th, 2015 at The Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts. The bestselling author of the book, The Immortal Life Of Henrietta Lacks, Rebecca Skloot presented as well as members of the Lacks family. This episode recaps the event and features an interview with descendents of Henrietta Lacks, Kimberly Lacks, granddaughter, and Veronica Spencer, great-granddaughter.

#34 Henrietta Lacks

Discover New Advances in the world of genetics, from technology like CRISPR to rare diseases to new research. For over a decade, multi-award winning podcast ”DNA Today” has brought you the voices of leaders in genetics. Host Kira Dineen brings her genetics expertise to interview geneticists, genetic counselors, patient advocates, biotech leaders, researchers, and more.

***Best 2020, 2021, and 2022 Science and Medicine Podcast Award Winner***

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We dive into the journey of a family who unexpectedly discovered a genetic condition and the pivotal role that research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) played in their understanding and treatment. Joining us are Jess, a patient with a secondary genetic finding, and her genetic counselor, Julie Sapp, from the National Human Genome Research Institute.
 
Secondary genetic findings, often termed as incidental or unexpected results, can have profound implications for individuals and their families. Today, we explore Jess's experience with receiving such a result and the collaborative efforts between patients, genetic counselors, and researchers in navigating this journey.
 
Meet Our Guests:
Jess: A patient who received a secondary genetic finding and embarked on a journey of understanding and treatment.
Julie Sapp: A genetic counselor at the National Human Genome Research Institute, leading research efforts in the Genomic Services Research Program (GSRP), focusing on individuals with secondary findings.
 
Julie Chevalier Sapp, PhD, ScM, CGC is a genetic counselor at the Center for Precision Health Research at the National Human Genome Research Institute where she studies social and behavioral questions related to the practice of clinical genomics and genetic counseling.  Her research interests include how people and systems make use of genomic data, the implementation of genomic screening, and the clinical utility of genomic techniques. Julie received her genetic counseling degree from the Johns Hopkins/NHGRI genetic counseling training program in 2005 and her PhD in Translational Health Science from the George Washington University in 2024.
 
Interview Highlights:
 
 Understanding Secondary Findings:
Julie provides insights into what constitutes a secondary finding in genetic testing and the importance of comprehending associated health risks and outcomes.
 
 Patient Perspective:
Jess shares her personal experience of receiving a secondary finding and discusses her journey to the Genomic Service Research Program (GSRP) at the NIH.
 
 Role of Genomic Testing in Diagnosis:
Julie elaborates on how molecular diagnosis obtained through genomic testing contributed to Jess's clinical diagnosis and subsequent healthcare management.
 
 Importance of Interventions:
Julie emphasizes the significance of interventions and preventive measures in managing genetic conditions like Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH).
 
 Challenges and Barriers:
Both Jess and Julie shed light on the challenges patients face in accessing appropriate care and how genetic counselors can support them in navigating these barriers.
 
 Research Insights and Future Directions:
Julie discusses the insights gained from Jess's case and the broader implications for research and clinical practice in the realm of genomic medicine.
 
Jess's journey exemplifies the transformative potential of collaborative research efforts in elucidating the complexities of genetic conditions and guiding personalized healthcare interventions. As we continue to advance in genomic research and testing, the experiences shared in this episode underscore the importance of patient-centered care and the invaluable contributions of genetic counselors and researchers alike.
 
Be sure to check out the National Human Genome Research Institute including their Genomic Services Research Program (GSRP). 
 
Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today next Friday since new episodes are released every Friday! In the meantime, you can binge over 285 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel.  
 
DNA Today is hosted and produced by Kira Dineen. Our social media lead is Corinne Merlino. Our video lead is Amanda Andreoli. Our Outreach Intern is Sanya Tinaikar. Our Social Media Intern is Kajal Patel. And our Graphic Design

#287 Familial Hypercholesterolemia with Jess and Julie

We have an international perspective in this episode who is a leader in genetics in Qatar. We previously talked to the first certified genetic counselor in Qatar, Shenela Lakhani, in Episode #109. If you haven’t yet we encourage you to check that interview out.
 
In this episode, We learn about the Qatar Genome Program (QGP), which is part of the Qatar Foundation, from the Director himself, Dr. Said Ismail. Dr. Ismail was pivotal to the establishment of the Qatar Genome Program -- a groundbreaking genome sequencing initiative that started in 2015 and is the largest project of its kind in the Middle East. QGP was the first whole-genome sequencing operation in the region to study Qatari and Arab genomes.
 
Dr. Said Ismail expertise and research lie in the fields of molecular biology and genetics, with a focus on cancer genetics, precision medicine, and the screening and characterization of disease-related mutations in the Arab population. Dr. Ismail has work experience across various fields, including research, education, and consultancy. He served as a consultant to several regional and international pharma and biotech companies. He headed the Jordan University Hospital molecular diagnostics reference laboratory, and was a board member of the local advisory board of the International Consortium for the American Society for Clinical Pathology International (ASCPI). He is the first president and co-founder of the International Society on Aptamers and is also an editorial board member of multiple international journals.
 
Dr. Ismail has a special interest in promoting research among young students. He launched one of the largest efforts to enhance the Arabic medical content on the internet, The “Bel-Arabi” or “In-Arabic” initiative: "بالعربي". He is also a board member of the Phi Science Institute aiming to encourage young students to pursue careers in research.
 
Dr. Ismail won the Said Foundation prize for young Arab researchers in the UK, and the Shoman award for Arab researchers in biomedical sciences in 2013. Dr Ismail holds a Ph.D. from the University of Oxford.
 
Key Insights from the Interview:
 
Inspiration behind QGP: Dr. Ismail shares his motivations for spearheading such a groundbreaking initiative, emphasizing the importance of advancing genomic research to enhance healthcare outcomes and address the unique genetic characteristics of the Arab population.
Significance of Diversity: We explore the importance of accessing diverse genomic information, particularly concerning the Arab population, in advancing precision medicine. Dr. Ismail highlights the role of QGP in uncovering genetic variations specific to the Qatari population and their implications for disease susceptibility and treatment outcomes.
Collaborative Efforts: Dr. Ismail discusses QGP's collaborations with other institutions and researchers to advance genomic research globally. Through partnerships and knowledge exchange, QGP aims to contribute to the broader understanding of genomics and precision medicine.
Challenges and Future Prospects: We delve into the challenges encountered in implementing precision medicine approaches and the future prospects of genomic research in Qatar and the wider region. Dr. Ismail provides insights into the evolving landscape of precision healthcare and the potential challenges that lie ahead.
 
Relevant Links:
 
Qatar Genome Program: https://www.qatargenome.org.qa/ 
 
News Story on QGP: https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/907772
 
Perception of consanguineous marriage among the qatari population: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10436573/ 
Qatar completes genome sequencing of 30,000 citizens: https://www.gulf-times.com/article/668469/qatar/qatar-completes-genome-sequencing-of-30000-citizens 
Mappin The Arab Genome: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-022-01239-0
 
GWAS paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-21381-3
 
PGx paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41525-022-00281-5
 
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#286 Qatar Genome Program with Dr. Said Ismail

In our most streamed episode of 2023, we delved into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its impact on genetics with Daniel Uribe, the founder and CEO of GenoBank.io. Now, Daniel returns to the show to provide us with insights into the latest advancements in AI technology and its applications in genetics.
 
In Episode #231, Daniel Uribe and our host Kira Dineen discussed the transformative potential of AI in genetics, focusing on its role in variant curation and diagnostic processes. Since then, AI has continued to evolve rapidly, revolutionizing the field of genetics and offering new possibilities for understanding health and DNA.
 
Danie Uribe, MBA, founder and CEO of GenoBank.io, is at the forefront of integrating AI with genomics to empower individuals and families in understanding their health and DNA. With a deep background in data science, artificial intelligence, and bioinformatics, Danie’s leadership has steered GenoBank.io to develop groundbreaking protocols that utilize BioNFTs for secure genomic data governance. His work champions the cause of data privacy and sovereignty in personal genomics, leveraging AI to demystify complex genetic information for personal health empowerment. An alumnus of IPADE Business School, Danie holds additional certifications in Ethereum Solidity Dapp, eQTL Functional Genetics, and RNA-seq Workshop. A pioneer in the DeSci movement, he is dedicated to making GenoBank.io a beacon for individuals seeking to navigate their health journey with confidence, supported by accessible and secure genomic insights.
 
Interview Highlights:
 
 Advancements in AI Technology:
Daniel provides an overview of the remarkable progress AI has made since our last conversation on Episode #231 in early 2023, highlighting its growing influence and expanding applications in genetics. From variant curation to diagnostic workflows, AI is transforming the way we understand and interpret genomic data.
 
 Current Uses of AI in Genetics:
Daniel explores the diverse ways in which AI is already being utilized in genetics, from prioritizing workflow for variant curation to filtering through large volumes of genomic data. He shares real-world examples of AI-driven solutions that have enhanced efficiency and accuracy in genomic analysis.
 
 Impact on Genetic Jobs:We discuss the potential implications of AI on genetic jobs and whether AI will replace certain roles in the field. Daniel offers insights into how AI can augment the capabilities of genetic counselors and other experts, emphasizing the importance of embracing AI as a valuable tool rather than a replacement.
 
 Enhancing Variant Curation with AI:
Daniel explains the role of AI in prioritizing variants for further investigation in the curation workflow and how it accelerates the diagnostic odyssey, particularly for individuals with rare diseases. He addresses concerns about costs and disparities in variant curation and discusses the potential of AI to close these gaps.
 
 Addressing Challenges and Security Concerns:
We delve into the challenges genetic counselors face in adopting AI tools and discuss strategies for overcoming these obstacles. Daniel also highlights the importance of data security and the need for robust measures to protect individuals' data while utilizing AI tools in genetic analysis.
 
 Regulatory Landscape and Future Outlook:
Daniel provides updates on regulations and policies affecting the use of AI in genetics, particularly in the US. He shares insights into the integration of AI as a co-pilot in the profession of genetic counseling and discusses the future trajectory of AI-driven advancements in genetics.
 
As we navigate the dynamic landscape of AI and genetics, Daniel's expertise offers invaluable insights into the transformative potential of this technology. From improving diagnostic accuracy to addressing disparities in variant curation, AI holds immense promise for revolutionizing the field of genetics and

#285 AI To Enhance Variant Curation with Daniel Uribe

Trigger warning: In this episode sensitive topics are discussed including, but not limited to, miscarriage, sexual abuse, manslaughter, and child abuse. 
 
On February 16th, 2024 the Alabama Supreme Court brought fertility care in that state to a screeching halt—and started a national conversation—by declaring that frozen embryos were people in the eyes of the law.
 
This is the first line of Laura Hercher’s Scientific American article, “How Arguments that Embryos Are People Pose a Threat to IVF''.
 
And we are lucky enough to have Laura joining us to discuss this!
 
For those that somehow don’t know Laura Hercher, you haven’t listened to enough episodes of DNA Today she has become our correspondent when major legislation happens that affects reproductive medicine, check those episodes out below. 
 
#157 NSGC 2021 Recap (Texas Abortion Ban)
#191 Overturning Roe v. Wade with Laura Hercher
 
Laura Hercher (she/her) is a genetic counselor and the Director of Student Research at Sarah Lawrence College’s Joan H. Marks Graduate Program in Human Genetics, where her research focuses on ethical, legal and social issues in genomic medicine. Her work as a commentator and journalist has been published in a wide variety of media outlets, including Scientific American, the MIT Technology Review, the Nation Magazine and the New York Times. At present, she is working on a book examining the societal implications of reproductive genomic medicine in the United States, tentatively entitled “The Ghettoization of Genetic Disease.”
 
On This Episode We Discuss: 
Overview of the Alabama Supreme Court case and its ruling on the legal status of frozen embryos
Definition of personhood and its implications for IVF and Republican politicians
Implications of the ruling for couples seeking fertility treatment involving frozen embryos
Impact of the ruling on the use of IVF for preventing hereditary conditions
Considerations regarding legal liabilities and responsibilities for abandoned embryos
Historical exemptions of IVF from abortion restrictions and its future under personhood laws
Tensions between embryo recognition as individuals and practical IVF procedures
Potential changes in availability and affordability of IVF due to legal implications
Precedents from other countries and legal systems regarding IVF and embryo personhood 
Role of the U.S. Supreme Court in adjudicating similar reproductive rights cases
Teaser for Laura Hercher’s upcoming book on the societal implications of reproductive genomic medicine
 
If you listened until the end of the episode, you heard Laura Hercher’s breaking news. No spoilers, but now you have to listen to our episode about how accurate the genetics in the 1997 movie Gattaca is today, that’s Episode #110. 
Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today next Friday! New episodes are released every Friday. In the meantime, you can binge over 280 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel, this includes some episodes recorded at NBC Universal Stamford Studios. 
 
DNA Today is hosted and produced by Kira Dineen. Our social media lead is Corinne Merlino. Our video lead is Amanda Andreoli. Our Outreach Intern is Sanya Tinaikar. Our Social Media Intern is Kajal Patel. And our logo Graphic Designer Ashlyn Enokian.
 
See what else we are up to on Instagram, X (Twitter), Threads, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and our website, DNAToday.com. Questions/inquiries can be sent to info@DNAtoday.com.

#284 IVF Implications of Alabama's Frozen Embryo Ruling with Laura Hercher

We delve into the intricate intersection of genetics and cardiac health, exploring the profound impact of genetic insights on patient care and treatment decisions. Joining us are two distinguished guests from Blueprint Genetics, Julie Hathaway and Susan Christian, both seasoned genetic counselors specializing in cardiovascular health. Their expertise promises to illuminate the complexities of genetic testing in cardiac conditions, offering valuable insights into familial risk assessment, intervention strategies, and emerging trends in personalized medicine.
 
Susan Christian is a certified genetic counsellor with Genetics & Genomics with Alberta Precision Labs and is cross appointed to the Medical Genetics Clinics with Alberta Health Services.  She completed a MSc in Genetic Counselling from the University of British Columbia in 1999 and a PhD in Medical Genetics from the University of Alberta in 2019.  Her research focus is on genetic counselling and inherited heart disease.
 
Julie Hathaway is an American and Canadian Board certified genetic counselor. She was introduced to cardiac genetics early on in her career and this remains her main area of interest in the field. As a Clinical Liaison at Blueprint Genetics, Julie provides both internal and external clinical support and education. In addition, she contributes to research and creating scientific content.
 
Exploring Genetic Cardiac Conditions:
- Deciphering the two main types of cardiac conditions: structural differences and rhythm abnormalities, providing clarity on their distinctions and clinical implications.
 
Identifying Familial Risk:
- Key clues in family histories that may indicate inherited cardiac conditions, emphasizing the importance of early detection and intervention.
 
Challenges in Testing Deceased Patients:
- The challenges laboratories face in testing deceased patients, highlighting the complexities of obtaining samples and interpreting limited phenotypic data.
 
Family Testing and Intervention:
- The significance of testing family members after identifying a familial variant, discussing intervention strategies and clinical trial eligibility.
 
Patient Impact of Genetic Test Results:
- How genetic test results impact patient management, including decisions regarding clinical trial eligibility and implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) implantation.
 
Genetic Testing Panels and Exome Sequencing:
- The selection of genetic testing panels, discussing the considerations for panel size and the circumstances warranting exome sequencing.
 
Addressing Emotional and Psychological Aspects:
- The vital role of genetic counselors in supporting patients and families through the emotional and psychological aspects of genetic testing for cardiac conditions.
 
Ethical Considerations and Future Trends:
- The ethical considerations of genetic testing in pediatric cases and explores the future of genetic testing and personalized medicine in cardiology.
 
Be sure to check out Blueprint Genetics’ cardiac genetic testing options including over 20 panels. 
 Stay tuned for the next new episode of DNA Today next Friday! New episodes are released every Friday. In the meantime, you can binge over 280 other episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, streaming on the website, or any other podcast player by searching, “DNA Today”. Episodes since 2021 are also recorded with video which you can watch on our YouTube channel, this includes some episodes recorded at NBC Universal Stamford Studios. 
 
DNA Today is hosted and produced by Kira Dineen. Our social media lead is Corinne Merlino. Our video lead is Amanda Andreoli. Our Outreach Intern is Sanya Tinaikar. Our Social Media Intern is Kajal Patel. And our logo Graphic Designer Ashlyn Enokian.
 
See what else we are up to on Instagram, X (Twitter), Threads, LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube and our website, DNAToday.com. Questions/inquiries can be sent to info@DNAtoday.com.

#34 Henrietta Lacks

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