Genetic Medicine
Large datasets and infrastructure support research projects that investigate human genetics to identify factors that may predispose or protect someone from cancer. Ensuring that patients know about inherited risk and are empowered to make decisions leads to a healthier population.
Resources to Understand the Genetic Basis of Cancer
Our researchers work to understand the molecular and genetic basis of cancer. The Genome Maintenance Research Program focuses specifically on the processes around genome maintenance in cells and how those processes are dysregulated in cancer. Collaborating on several Vanderbilt-driven initiatives, our center draws on its deep expertise and resources to understand how genetics affect risk and influence clinical decision making.
Leaders in Genomics and Clinical Informatics
Tuya Pal, MD
Associate Director for Cancer Clinical Genomics
Travis Osterman, DO, MS
Scientific Co-Director, Data Science Shared Resource, VICC
BioVU
BioVU is Vanderbilt’s de-identified biobank that includes DNA and plasma connected to electronic health records. One of the largest biobanks in the world housed in a single center, this resource helps researchers discover links between genetic details and disease. On average, BioVU collects about 500 DNA samples a week, and in 2023 they surpassed 300,000 samples sequenced. The sequencing data is aligned with a de-identified health record that contains about 3.5 million records.
The Synthetic Derivative and Research Derivative
The strengths of BioVU are found in its more than 15-year connection to longitudinal medical record data. Synthetic Derivative and Research Derivative provide both de-identified and identified patient record search functionality. Both of these tools allow Vanderbilt research teams to investigate the underpinnings of human disease and connect biologic variants they are investigating to a human disease.
Inherited Cancer Registry (ICARE)
ICARE is designed to improve the access and understanding of hereditary cancer research. The group distributes updates via newsletters and webinars to those interested in inherited cancer risk. For this study, Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center researchers have partnered with over 670 providers, resulting in more than 8,200 participants. This cohort of patient samples has led to more than 100 publications further elucidating risk factors for hereditary cancer.