David Cameron has announced plans to map the DNA of some 100,000 cancer patients. Cambridge has been chosen to play a leading role in this new effort to “crack cancer” which has been pledged £100 million in funding by the Prime Minister.

His choice of Cambridge is no coincidence as the town has a history of genome research. Beginning in the early 50’s, with the discovery of the double-helix structure of DNA by Crick and Watson, the region has since then come to be a world leader in life sciences.

Strategically, too, Cambridge offers quite an arsenal in the siege on cancer. One of the largest cancer research facilities in Europe, the Cambridge Research Institute, is located at the Addenbrookes Hospital site.

Speaking of the choice Cameron said, “We are a world leader in this, Cambridge is a world leader as well, and this investment is a vote of confidence in Cambridge and life sciences.”

Yet, how can simply mapping the DNA of a cancer patient offer any concrete advantages? As doctors gain a new understanding of genetic make-ups and their conditions, they will be able to tailor treatments to individual needs. There are also hopes that this might lead to the development new drugs and treatments. Potential harmful side effects might also be able to be identified prior to treatment in order to minimse their impact.

Dr Harpal Kumar, the Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, praised the project:  “This work will uncover a wealth of new information which doctors and scientists will use to learn more about the biology of the disease and to develop new ways to prevent, diagnose and effectively treat cancer.”

“We hope that this vital investment, together with other measures, such as continued support to diagnose cancers earlier, when treatment is more likely to be successful, will be an important step towards saving more lives from cancer, sooner.”

Genome sequencing has become more affordable in recent years. The bill for the first test set researchers back by £500 million. Modern techniques are less detrimental to government bank accounts, and cost only £1000. Consequently, centres capable of carrying the tests will be set up all over the UK, helping maintain the nation’s position at the forefront of genetic research.