Global Disruptors - Genomics in South Africa 2021

Genomics

The field of genomics owes its existence to the Human Genome Project which kicked off in 1990, where researchers sequenced the bases in our genome’s DNA, mapped the locations of genes for major sections of our chromosomes and produced linkage maps that track inherited traits (such as those for genetic disease) over generations. Genomics is an early-stage technology that has the potential to play a major role in human and animal health, as well as food security. The economics of the industry reflect this early nature, with highly volatile financial results and share prices of listed companies in this sector. This is a high-risk market from a commercial standpoint, which requires companies to achieve scientific breakthroughs that can be adequately monetised.

Growth Outlook

The large-scale population sequencing market has become increasingly important in light of the pandemic and increased demand for personalised medicine in diagnosing rare disorders and the treatment of cancer and other diseases. Revenue in bioinformatics, which provides the software, instrumentation and supplies required for analysis, research and genome mining, is going to grow similarly, as is gene editing market revenue. The regulatory environment around genomics is exceptionally complex and there are multiple ethical and economic considerations, along with management of cross-border relationships.

Report Coverage

This report focuses on genomics, one of several industries identified by Who Owns Whom for its series of Global Disruptor reports. This report includes information on what genomics entails, companies and institutions involved in the sector, and the uses of genomics for humans, to help prevent and fight disease, and for agriculture. It includes information on gene sequencing, bioinformatics, genome mining and editing, trends, regulations and ethical concerns. It provides an initial outlook on a sector that still in its early stages of development, but likely to be a major drive of change in the future.