Table 3 Qatar Precision Medicine - from basic research to clinical implementation - the Q-chip

Qatar Genome led national efforts to produce the first version of a Qatar microarray gene chip in 2018. This chip included hundreds of thousands of gene variants and disease associated mutations to be used both for research and in clinical diagnosis. The chip content was based on Qatari genetic and genomic data. The Q-Chip was the result of a collaborative work led by Qatar Genome and involving major local stakeholders including QBB, WCMQ, HMC and Sidra Medicine.

The Q-chip is an example of how data provided by a large-scale genome project like QGP can start to deliver impact at the clinical care level and lead efforts to introduce precision medicine practices into the health care system. The Q-chip will provide more accurate genetic testing for a wide range of disorders based on data that is more relevant to the local population. Currently, Qatar Genome is working with other stakeholders and the chip manufacturer (Affymetrix/Thermofisher) to produce the second version of the Q-Chip. This version will have more refined clinical content and design to suit the local needs delivering on the promise of precision medicine for the population and precision healthcare in Qatar. A prototype, the first ‘Q-chip’, was presented to Her Highness Sheikha Moza during the WISH 2018 Summit.