Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and St. Jude Children’s Hospital in Memphis are teaming up to sequence the genomes of 600 children with pediatric cancer in the hope of identifying the genetic changes that cause some of the world’s deadliest childhood cancers.
This project is the largest investment to date — estimated to cost $65 million over three years — aimed at understanding the genetic origins of childhood cancer. St. Jude is providing $45 million in operating and capital expenses and $10 million in existing personnel time and infrastructure. Akron, Ohio-based Kay Jewelers has pledged $20 million, and Washington University is providing $10 million in personnel time and infrastructure.