Public population project in genomics
P3G (acronym for Public Population Project in Genomics) is an international consortium created for the understanding, prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. To do this, P3G will capitalize on the emerging knowledgebase and technologies developed by the Human Genome Project, the International HapMap Project and other international endeavors. P3G will require millions of participants across the world, some of which will be healthy, while others will have developed one or more chronic diseases. By comparing the environment and the genomes of these subjects, a detailed encyclopedia will be created, containing information on risk factors (such as diet, chemical exposures, and genetic differences) that predispose to disease. P3G will enable effective collaboration between large population genetic studies and biobanks happening in many countries. P3G will include experts in ethics, sociology, and international law to develop approaches for the responsible use of medical information, DNA tests, and other data.
P3G has ambitious plans for its first years of operations: 1) Build an effective organization for the harmonization and coordination of large-scale public projects in genetic epidemiology; 2) Enable the development of new population genetic resources; 3) Launch specific studies using P3G-affiliated biobanks to address initial research questions.
To ensure effective communication between biobanks and research teams working within P3G, International Working Groups (IWGs) have been formed to identify issues and monitor progress of research activities and deliverables.
I. IWG on Social, Environmental and Biochemical Investigations
II. IWG on Knowledge Curation and Information Technology
III. IWG on Ethics, Governance and Public Engagement
IV. IWG on Epidemiology and Biostatistics
The knowledgebase developed by P3G is made available via the P3G Observatory, at www.p3gobservatory.org