Hong Kong Genome Institute and AstraZeneca explore research collaborations to accelerate clinical trials

The Hong Kong Genome Institute (HKGI) held a meeting with global biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca (AZ) to exchange views on the latest technologies and advancements in genomic medicine. 

Chaired by Dr Lo Su-vui, Chief Executive Officer of HKGI, the meeting was attended by a delegation of senior representatives and researchers from AZ led by Dr Slavé Petrovski, Vice President, Centre for Genomics Research. At the meeting, HKGI and AZ agreed to explore potential research collaborations to expedite clinical trials for new pharmaceuticals and therapies, with the aim of delivering patient benefits. These efforts are expected to foster medical innovations and enhance local healthcare services, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

Highlights of the meeting also included introduction of the Hong Kong Genome Project, Hong Kong’s first large-scale whole genome sequencing project. Remarked by Dr Brian Chung, Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of HKGI, nearly 40,000 participants have been recruited to date, contributing to the establishment of a genome database predominantly made up of the Southern Chinese population. 

As internationally-shared human genome databases are largely European-based with only approximately 10 percent of the data from Asian population, HKGI’s database can bridge the gap and facilitate the development of targeted solutions for diagnosis, treatment and disease prevention for the broader community. 

 “After more than three years of effort, we have successfully started building a genome database that not only consists primarily of Southern Chinese but also integrates clinical data with genomic information, covering more than 20 genetic disorders, rare diseases, and common cases,” said Dr Lo Su-vui of HKGI, who added that independent evaluation jointly conducted by the University of Cambridge (PHG Foundation) and the University of Hong Kong had recognized the Project’s value and its adherence to international standards in overall planning, operation, patient recruitment, and informed consent mechanisms.

To unlock the full potential of the database, HKGI has also developed the Synergistic Research Environment (SRE) through which de-identified information within the genome database can be accessed by approved researchers, academic institutions and enterprises. 

Dr Lo’s views were echoed by Dr Lifeng Tian, Director, Head of Centre for Genomics Research China of AZ, who commended HKGI’s genome database for providing effective local population data to support clinical trials. “The uniqueness of HKGI’s database makes it an extremely valuable research asset for the industry,” said Dr Tian. 

Dr Tian expressed AZ’s interest in forming strategic research collaborations with HKGI at the forefront of multi-omics studies. “We look forward to the opportunities to partner with HKGI for the research and development of new drugs and treatments with improved efficacy, driving further breakthroughs in healthcare services,” Dr Tian reiterated.

This exchange meeting laid a foundation for future dialogues and potential collaborations between HKGI and AZ in genomic and pharmaceutical research. Building on the HKSAR Government’s initiative to set up the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute and implement policies to promote medical innovations for Hong Kong, HKGI will continue to contribute to Hong Kong’s development as an international Health and Medical Innovation Hub, benefiting the general public.