Realtime gene sequencing gets closer

Back in the video Jeans…or Genes? I mentioned that Pacific Biosciences was claiming it was working on technology to sequence a whole human genome in 15 minutes! Sounded a lot like a boast to entice VC funding.

But they’ve gotten a step closer to making the thing a reality. According to Technology Review they now have a video of the technology at work in a proof-of- concept. There’s a movie on their site that explains how it all works.

So they’re standing by their claim that they’ll be doing genomes–maybe around 2013–in 15 min. for @$100!! So what? Well, having gene testing done dirt-cheap is a technology that is already making waves in the control structure of medicine and the healthcare system. The faster and cheaper the process, the more the impact.

Tomorrow’s going to be different.

Games to Teach Health

I have been writing a lot about games and their potential for engaging
kids in healthy behaviors. I just received a note from a friend about Playnormous
- a new game designed to help kids learn about healthy lifestyle
choices. Although Playnormouse is a free game, it seems like it is has
not been released yet. On their site they are linking to a number of
other great Heath games so I applaud them for that. I look forward to
playing Playnormous and absorbing what they want to teach.

Games That Move You

In the Netherlands there is a new gaming system that gets kids up and
moving outside and indoors too. Swinx is a device that have
downloadable audio profiles that organize and direct kids in fun games
anywhere there is some open space. Players wear RFID wristbands to help
Swinx determine position and activity level of each player.

Cancer Innovations: a new product

I was scouting for something with Google tonight and found the site: Cancer Innovations.

According to the About Us page it is "an educational resource developed by cancer specialists for people interested in the latest research and treatment options for various types of cancer. The site provides information for those looking to expand their knowledge about how to recognize symptoms and how to select treatments. Find information that will help you choose treatment options for breast cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, prostate cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, and other gastrointestinal tumors. Browse our library of cancer treatment information where you can watch videos and read articles featuring leading cancer experts from around the world. Cancer Innovations is dedicated to improving the lives of people living with cancer and raising the awareness of all types of cancer by providing information about the latest research in cancer medicine." 

Bottom line, a doctor and a business guy are promoting cancer awareness through Healthology – "a leading producer and distributor of physician-generated health and medical information on the Internet. With one of the largest and most distinguished libraries of original, streaming health programs and physician-authored articles on the Web, Healthology provides companies with seamless solutions for their online health information and marketing needs."