Functional Genomics & Beyond 2016

Theme: Nature via Nurture
Dates: 12–14 December 2016
Venue: Qatar National Convention Center (QNCC), Doha, Qatar

Overview

Functional Genomics & Beyond 2016 explored one of the most fundamental and enduring questions in biomedical science: Nature versus Nurture. Hosted by Sidra Medicine as part of the Sidra Symposia Series, the conference examined how genetic predisposition interacts with environmental, nutritional, microbial, and lifestyle factors to shape human health and disease.

As precision medicine continues to evolve, understanding the complex interplay between genome programming and external modifiers has become critical for disease prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. The symposium convened internationally recognized scientists, clinicians, and healthcare leaders to discuss how genomic patterns are influenced by life experiences and how these interactions can be translated into clinical practice.

Scientific Themes

The 2016 program was structured around the integration of genomics with environmental and translational science, focusing on:

National and international genome initiatives
Population genomics and implementation strategies
Epigenomics and gene–environment interactions
Nutritional and environmental genetics
Rare genetic disorders and advanced therapies
Non-invasive prenatal testing and early detection technologies
Gene therapy and hematopoietic stem cell innovations
Translational bioinformatics and systems biology

The meeting emphasized practical implementation of genomic knowledge within healthcare systems.

Program Highlights

The two-day scientific program featured keynote lectures, thematic sessions, and moderated discussions covering:

Updates from major genome projects, including regional and global initiatives
Clinical integration of genomic medicine in Qatar and internationally
Advances in cell and gene therapy for inherited disorders
Mitochondrial genomics and disease susceptibility
Microbiome research and environmental modifiers of genetic risk
Genomic approaches to cancer personalization
Ethical considerations in genomic medicine

In parallel, a technology and innovation exhibition showcased world-leading service providers and research platforms supporting genomic medicine.

Technical workshops hosted by sponsors and exhibitors were conducted on the third day at Sidra Medical and Research Center.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of the symposium, participants were able to:

Explain the interaction between genetic predisposition and environmental modifiers
Describe advances in national genome initiatives and their healthcare implications
Identify emerging gene and cell therapy strategies for inherited disorders
Discuss the role of epigenetics and microbiome research in disease risk
Recognize clinical applications of precision diagnostics and prenatal screening

Target Audience

The symposium was designed for:

Physicians and healthcare professionals
Researchers in genomics and translational medicine
Geneticists and laboratory scientists
Bioinformaticians and systems biology specialists
Healthcare policymakers and regulatory professionals
Academic faculty and graduate trainees

Accreditation

Attendance was accredited as a Category 1 Group Learning Activity and approved for a maximum of 17 CPD hours.

The Scientific Planning Committee reviewed all disclosed financial relationships of speakers, moderators, and contributors and implemented procedures to manage any potential or real conflicts of interest.

Legacy and Impact

Functional Genomics & Beyond 2016 reinforced Sidra Medicine’s commitment to advancing genomic medicine within Qatar and the region. By examining the intersection of biology, environment, and clinical care, the symposium expanded the scope of precision medicine dialogue beyond sequencing to implementation.

The conference helped establish the foundation for subsequent annual Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics meetings and strengthened Qatar’s role in global genomics collaboration.