Genomics. The use and importance of genomics in clinical research and practice has grown exponentially as the cost of acquiring human genomic sequences has continually decreased. Genetic variation can be inherited, acquired, or present at birth. Within the realm of inherited variants, the evolutionary history of humans can account for much of the genetic variation seen across different groups. Genomic research can help in identification of genomic loci or variants that are potentially associated with human diseases and, hence, also enable the development of precision medicine. However, accounting for the normal spectrum of human genetic variation is critical, and the currently available tools are significantly limited in their ability to do so for a diverse range of human populations.
