Understanding of genetic factors that influence prostate cancer and other conditions is expected to improve thanks to a programme launched by a Bermudian research laboratory, it was announced today.

CariGenetics said that in collaboration with Oxford Nanopore Technologies, it has launched its Caribbean Genome Programme — the first large-scale genomic sequencing initiative in the region.

The organisation added that the work was intended to help advance genetic research in the Caribbean to address health disparities, starting with men’s health.

It explained: “The Caribbean has been historically underrepresented in genomic studies, with many global databases omitting them entirely.

“The Caribbean Genome Programme will start to address this by sequencing 1,000 men with and without disease across ten islands in its initial phase — scaling to 100,000 individuals by the end of 2027 — to improve understanding of genetic factors influencing prostate cancer and other health conditions.

“For the first time, large-scale genome sequencing is being conducted within the region rather than samples being sent overseas for analysis.

“Powered by Oxford Nanopore’s real-time, accessible sequencing technology, CariGenetics is building local capacity for genetic research, ensuring faster insights and regional data ownership.”

Carika Weldon, the founder and chief executive of CariGenetics, added: “This programme will not only generate the first large-scale data set for our communities but will also empower regional researchers with cutting-edge sequencing technology.

“Oxford Nanopore’s approach aligns perfectly with our mission to enable in-country sequencing and real-time genomic insights.

“We have been able to perform testing that usually take months to within hours.”

CariGenetics said it was moving beyond traditional academic models for genomic research — the study of an organism’s complete set of DNA — to private sector work led by innovation.

Gordon Sanghera, the chief executive of Oxford Nanopore Technologies, added: “We are delighted to collaborate with CariGenetics in this groundbreaking initiative.

“Oxford Nanopore’s technology is designed to enable rapid, information-rich DNA and RNA [ribonucleic acid] analysis anywhere in the world — including underserved regions like the Caribbean.

“Dr Weldon’s leadership is inspiring, and we are excited to see the impact this programme will have both on genomic research and healthcare in the Caribbean region, as well as the global Caribbean diaspora.”

CariGenetics said it was looking for partners to expand its research capabilities.