December 07, 2016
Our thanks to Richard Resnick, former CEO of GQ Life Sciences for addressing a sold-out crowd at the 7th Annual Don Rix Distinguished Keynote in Vancouver. Resnick wowed the audience with his perspective on how genomics is changing the world we live in. From what we eat to who we love to how we reproduce to how we are watched to whether we are worthy of basic human rights.
If you weren’t able to make it, you can watch his full presentation online. The in-person Q&A with Richard starts at 1:08:30 of the video. We couldn’t get through all the questions we received at the event, so we’ve compiled those we received via twitter below (follow us @genomebc)
Q: How solid is the evidence behind DNA tests for athleticism?
RR: Not terribly solid yet. Small sample sizes and biases in methodology are to blame. Yet people still identify with their reports!
Q: How do we make sure non-Euro populations are included in genetic research so everyone benefits from precision medicine?
RR: Great question, there is major bias in our data! Papers like this https://genomebiology.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13059-016-1016-y…spell out the problem. Much to be done.
Q: how quickly until we shift our treatment of mental illness now that genomics is being used?
RR: Major advancements already happening – check out Pathway Genomics as an example.
Q: how can we safeguard our genomic info from hackers?
RR: Nothing is safe if someone really wants the data. Even if it were I could still steal your cup and sequence your genome.
Q: How long until all foods are GMO based? Good or Bad?
RR: Pretty close already in 1st world. Sadly, pre-existing bias disables people from accepting new info on it:
Q: how long until our corner drug stores carry genome-based personal health care recovery?
RR: Already there with drugs: http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/ScienceResearch/ResearchAreas/Pharmacogenetics/ucm083378.htm … and testing http://www.cvs.com/shop/home-health-care/home-tests/parental-dna-gender-tests/23andme-personal-genetic-service-saliva-collection-kit-prodid-168385 …
About the Annual Don Rix Distinguished Keynote
Don Rix, one of the co-founders of Genome BC, was an innovator and a philanthropist with a broad palette of interests: medicine and science, education, and the arts. He was a visionary and a pioneer. Don’s belief in the possibilities that genomics had to offer society was instrumental in helping BC’s biotech industry to thrive. After Don’s passing in 2009, Genome BC established the annual Don Rix Distinguished Keynote as a way to recognize his legacy and continue inspiring our community.
Is there a topic or speaker you’d like to see at next year’s Don Rix Event? Let us know!
