Making genomics accessible for newborns in Texas
MAGNET: MAKING GENOMICS ACCESSIBLE FOR NEWBORNS IN TEXAS
Brings faster genome and RNA testing plus remote genetics consults to critically ill newborns in underserved Texas hospitals so families can get quicker diagnoses and care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11197613 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will offer whole genome and RNA sequencing using a lower-cost platform, combined with Consultagene remote genetics consultations, to sick newborns in level III and IV NICUs across under-resourced regions of Texas. Samples collected in local hospitals will be sequenced and interpreted centrally to look for rare genetic causes of neonatal illness. Teams will also support frontline clinicians through remote consultations and training so genetic results can be used in care decisions. The goal is to shorten the time to diagnosis and expand access where genetic services are currently unavailable.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Newborns (0-4 weeks old) in Level III or IV NICUs in under-resourced Texas regions—such as El Paso, the Rio Grande Valley, and parts of northwestern and central Texas—who are suspected of having a genetic condition.
Not a fit: Healthy newborns, those with clearly non-genetic causes of illness, or babies already diagnosed will be unlikely to benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to faster and more accurate diagnoses and earlier personalized treatments for critically ill newborns in underserved areas.
How similar studies have performed: Whole-genome sequencing programs at major centers have already increased diagnosis rates in critically ill newborns, though using lower-cost sequencing and statewide remote consults is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Brendan — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Lee, Brendan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.