DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) provides a wealth of valuable information about people’s characteristics and health. Doctors and scientists can use this information, for example, to determine if a person has a particular condition and, if so, which one. To this end, it is important to investigate the proper, responsible and safe use of DNA. RIVM is researching how DNA technology can be used effectively to improve public health.
DNA in research
People, animals and plants all have their own unique genetic code: DNA. DNA acts as a kind of guide for growth, development and ageing. By researching DNA, we can learn much about health and disease, outbreaks of infectious diseases and improving food production. RIVM investigates and applies knowledge about DNA to various topics.
DNA, genome and genomics: what do these terms mean?
Various terms are used when talking about DNA and health. DNA is the hereditary material that parents pass on to their children. DNA contains different bits of code called genes. Genes provide information about certain physical characteristics, such as eye colour, or a predisposition for developing a hereditary disease. The complete DNA package is called the genome. Research and development in the field of DNA, also called genomics, help build new knowledge and develop new applications for DNA technology.
Public Health Genomics
DNA can tell us much about people’s health, which is why health care is one of the areas where DNA technology can play a significant role. Examples include personalising treatment in the hospital or population screening programmes such as the non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT). DNA tests can help determine whether someone has – or is at increased risk of developing – a disease or would benefit from specific treatments. These issues and developments are part of the field of Public Health Genomics. This is also defined as ‘the application of knowledge of DNA and DNA technology in public health and health care’.
RIVM and Public Health Genomics
RIVM researches and monitors developments in Public Health Genomics from the Dutch public health perspective. This includes issues surrounding quality assurance in screening labs and identifying innovations. But also, the implementation of new DNA technologies for prevention, as well as the ethical, legal and societal issues involved. One example is research into the advantages and disadvantages for consumers of performing DNA self-tests. RIVM then shares this knowledge with specialists, government authorities and citizens. In doing so, RIVM builds a bridge between research, policy and society.
Applying DNA technology
RIVM also advises on policy-making relating to the implementation and application of DNA technology. For example, RIVM has asked health care providers, researchers, patient representatives, and product developers how DNA technology could help improve the health of the Dutch population. The results of this study are outlined in the report DNA technology for the Dutch population (Dutch report, English synopsis).
For more information on heredity and health, check the website of Erfocentrum , the Dutch national information centre on heredity.