Coriell Institute has partnered with IBM to create a new, for-profit genomic information storage and interpretation spin-off company: Coriell Life Sciences (CLS).
Developed as a Genomic Data Ecosystem that offers storage of genomic data, expert interpretation and an interchange framework that delivers clinically-relevant genomic interpretation at the point-of-care, CLS will employ lessons learned from the Coriell Personalized Medicine Collaborative (CPMC) research study.
CLS intends to fill the gap between doctors, sequence providers and scientists with expertise in genetic interpretation.
"The intent is that the doctor would order a test like any other diagnostic test they order today," Scott Megill, president of CLS, told the MIT Technology Review while detailing the process. After facilitating the sequencing of the patients' DNA, storing the sample in the CLS gene vault, and brokering the interpretation service, "we will return the genetic result in the human readable form back to the electronic medical record so the doctor can read it and interpret it for the patient," says Megill.
In May, the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (EDA) approved a $1M loan for CLS, noting that the new organization projects to create 26 jobs and is a candidate to lease the EDA's newly renovated Waterfront Technology Center in Camden.
CLS also recently received the prestigious IBM "Entrepreneur of the Year" award for North America. The company was selected as one of only six elite finalists from across the country and attended an intensive three-day summit in California. As part of the program, CLS leadership interfaced with a panel of influential industry experts, investors, and venture capitalists. The selection now qualifies CLS to advance to the Global Finals in February.
To learn more about the work taking place at CLS, click here to visit the company's website.
