Genome lab opens door to future

Estonia's landmark Genome Project Foundation opened a new lab complex this week and intends to start collecting tissue samples shortly to establish a countrywide genetic database.

With a staff of 20, the new lab will be the initial testing and storage hub and form the main part of the 44 million kroon (2.8 million euro) pilot project.

"It is, without a doubt, an important accomplishment," said Krista Kruuv, chairwoman of the foundation's board. "Yet it's but one part of our work – much effort has also been put in informing the public and instructing our network of doctors."

The project will also serve as a litmus test of the foundation's performance as well as public confidence in the much-debated initiative. Collection of tissue samples from some 10,000 volunteers will start in late September.

The Genome Foundation has already prepared more than 100 doctors to help promote the initiative and collect necessary samples- some 50 milliliters of blood from each gene donor.

In addition, a donor will complete genealogy and health questionnaires and submit a form of consent. The Human Genes Research Act sets an age limit of 7 for participation in the project, but the pilot is directed at adults only.

The project will be launched in Tartu, Saare and Lääne-Viru counties. The Estonian project was launched in 1999 and won instant support from the government. The process led to the passing of the Human Genes Research Act in 2000.

It's financed by Estonian businessmen and international investors channeling funds through U.S.-based EGeen International Corporation.

"Financing of the pilot project was a success," noted Kruuv, predicting the genome project would remain attractive for investors as the work continues.

A few similar projects have been established in other parts of the world, notably in Iceland, where massive work has already produced a usable set of the nation's genetic data.

Estonia's project, however, is trying hard to distance itself from commercialism. The foundation has concluded an agreement with Falck, the largest private security company in Estonia, to ensure safe collection and transport of each blood sample within 36 hours.

To attract donors, gene gurus are mostly relying on the prospect of highly personalized and accurate genetics-based medical care. As provided in the Human Gene Research Act, all data produced by the foundation will be free for use by Estonia's scientists and medics but may not be used for criminal proceedings.