Illumina delivers first individual's genome sequence through new service

5 September 2009

Illumina, Inc. (NASDAQ:ILMN) has announced that it has delivered Hermann Hauser’s genome sequence. Dr Hauser, Partner, Amadeus Capital Partners Ltd, is the first consumer to purchase Illumina’s individual genome sequencing service working with his physician, Michael Nova, MD, of Pathway Genomics.

The genome was completed in Illumina’s CLIA-certified and College of American Pathologists (CAP) accredited laboratory using the Genome Analyzer technology. Over 110 billion base calls were generated, delivering over 30X coverage of the genome. Data analysis showed 300K novel SNPs in the genome that have not been documented elsewhere. This discovery demonstrates the power of whole genome sequencing as an exploratory tool, as these SNPs were novel but not necessarily unique.

“We are very excited to be delivering our first individual genome sequence to Hermann Hauser,” said Jay Flatley, President and CEO of Illumina. This is a landmark since just two months ago we launched the availability of this service from Illumina. The experience we created for Hermann was not only one of personal genetic exploration, but one that points to a future where genome sequencing will become a routine practice and the information generated will enable physicians to make better healthcare decisions for the individual. This information has long term value for Hermann as he can continue to access it and gain personal genomic insights as new discoveries are made.

Dr. Hauser’s genome was delivered by a team consisting of his physician, Dr Michael Nova, a bioinformatics specialist and geneticist at Illumina’s San Diego headquarters on Thursday, August 20, 2009. The visit included a consultation, facility tour and ceremony during which Dr. Hauser’s genome was delivered on an iMac computer using GenomeStudio software as a genome browsing interface.

Hermann Hauser is one of the first of a small, select group of individuals who have had their genome sequenced. “Going through Illumina’s process was very exciting for me personally. I am looking forward to the information on gene variants that will give my doctors guidance on effective treatments and drug dosage based on pharmacogenetic information, for any future medical condition I may develop," said Hauser.

"This is the beginning of personalized medicine and I am delighted to be there at the start of it. As an early investor in the gene sequencing technology used in this work, I am proud that Illumina has introduced this service to consumers. It fulfills an early dream to substantially reduce the cost of whole genome sequencing,” he continued.

Dr. Hauser is a pioneer member of a growing community that is driving education and exchange of information for those who have had their genomes sequenced. As more information becomes available, participants will be in a position to mine their personal genome sequence data to understand their identity in ways which have never been possible before.

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