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Michael J. Bamshad, MD
Director, CCG
mbamshad@u.washington.edu
Phone: (206) 221-4131


Sarah Ruuska, MPH
Study Coordinator, CCG
sarahruu@u.washington.edu
Office: UWMC HSB RR345
Phone: (206) 685-4985
Fax: (206) 221-3795
Mailbox: 356320

Center for Clinical Genomics

The goal of the Center for Clinical Genomics (CCG) is to expand the study of human genetics into areas of clinical research where the application of such strategies has been infrequent. The CCG provides study design expertise, the infrastructure to help collect, organize and maintain a collection of clinical information and biologic materials from individuals with various conditions ascertained during routine clinical care at UWMC, CHRMC and FHCRC, and facilitates the execution of human genetics studies.

Key Services Provided by the CCG:

• Assistance with experimental design of the genetic component of clinical studies
• Development and writing human subjects protocols
• Design of data capture forms and questionnaires
• Collection and tracking of phenotypic information
• Logistical coordination among regulatory boards, clinical centers and research programs
• Identification of suitable technologies for processing and analyzing genetic material
• Identification of resources/colleagues at UWMC/CHRMC/FHCRC who can make available such technologies
• DNA extraction from a variety of tissues
• Tissue banking and long-term storage
• Support for management of clinical, sample storage and genetic analysis data

The infrastructure of the CCG is to be utilized for the study of a broad spectrum of disease-related phenotypes, by investigators lacking the infrastructure and expertise to fully develop the genetic component of their studies. The range of phenotypes includes, but is not limited to:

1. Well known disorders for which the specific genetic factors influencing risk and/or outcome are poorly understood (e.g., sepsis, diabetes, coronary artery disease)
2. Poorly delineated genetic conditions (e.g., autism, idiopathic mental retardation)
3. Established syndromes for which the range of phenotypic manifestations is incompletely characterized (e.g., birth defect syndromes such as Down syndrome)
4. Health-related traits for which the genetic basis is unknown (e.g., taste sensitivity, food preferences)