Genetic data partnerships: academic publications with privately owned or generated genetic data

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Biotechnology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Access to large genetic datasets is crucial for precision medicine and research.
• Privately owned genetic data is increasingly utilized by academic researchers.
• Understanding the dynamics of private-academic genetic data partnerships is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the nature of collaborations between academic researchers and private genetic data holders.
• To analyze the trends and models of genetic data sharing between industry and academia.

Main Methods:

• A systematic analysis of publications citing human genetic data from major private genetic testing companies.
• Data was sourced from PubMed, covering publications between 2011 and 2017.

Main Results:

• Publications using private genetic data grew from 4 (2011) to 57 (2017).
• Two primary data-sharing models were identified: using existing industry data or submitting new samples.
• Contributor consent was unclear in 43% of publications; 45% received National Institutes of Health funding.

Conclusions:

• Private genetic databanks provide efficient access to large-scale genetic information for academic research.
• Increased transparency is recommended for contributor notification and oversight of public research funds in private collaborations.