The -omics technologies have revolutionized high-throughput data production from biological samples at various levels of cellular processes. The most widely explored are genomics, epigenomics and proteomics, while transcriptomic and metabolomic studies are also advancing. Translational research is defined by the European Society for Translational Medicine (EUSTM) as “an interdisciplinary branch of the biomedical field supported by three main pillars: benchside, bedside and community. The goal is to combine disciplines, resources, expertise, and techniques within these pillars to promote enhancements in prevention, diagnosis, and therapies”. It is within this concept that genomic, epigenomic, proteomic and other -omics data need to be incorporated as an integral component of the algorithm for integrated precision medicine, providing a snapshot of the personal molecular/cellular health situation, predisposition to disease and possible biomarker monitoring. Furthermore, transomics provides a leap forward in strengthening correlations between genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics, allowing the more meaningful interpretation of genetic variants. These discoveries will form the basis of many of the tools that the IPMT CoE seeks to develop.
The Cypriot population provides unique prospects for -omics studies as it is homogeneous, confined within the boundaries of the island, and socio-educational practices encourage research, especially in the health sector. In addition, it is considered that 1000 participants is a sound representation of the relatively small population (800,000), as was demonstrated by the MASTOS study. Therefore, the application of–omics related population-wide discoveries is feasible within the Cypriot population; and could be realized within manageable budgets and nicely fits with the aims of integrated precision medicine. FhG-IBMT will complement the local expertise with their extensive expertise in cell and tissue molecular and cellular biology for medical purposes, nano- and bio-compatibility testing and advanced in vitro and ex vivo models with large degree of automation.
