SK Telecom Collaborates with Geninus to Develop Genomic Analysis AI Algorithm

MetaRunner-Based Genomic and Clinical Big Data Analysis, Development of Genomic Analysis AI Algorithm
Plan to Derive New Drug Candidates Through New Drug Target Discovery

[Asia Economy Reporter Eunmo Koo] SK Telecom announced on the 6th that it has decided to develop a human genome analysis algorithm using artificial intelligence (AI) in collaboration with genome analysis specialist company Geninus, and to promote the discovery of new drug targets using this technology.

Based on MetaRunner, an AI automation platform capable of developing optimized AI solutions across various fields, SK Telecom will analyze genome and clinical big data provided by Geninus to develop genome analysis AI algorithms. Geninus plans to select targets derived from the AI algorithm analysis results to identify candidate substances for new drug development.

Geninus, a genome analysis specialist company, possesses next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based genome analysis technology. Utilizing various bioinformatics techniques based on genome big data accumulated over several years, it provides genome diagnostic services specialized in personalized treatment needed in clinical settings.

Through the ‘single-cell genome analysis AI algorithm’ developed through this collaboration, the two companies plan to first conduct precise analysis of the human genome. This will enable interpretation of pathological characteristics in multiple organs and peripheral blood of patients, and is expected to facilitate research on various diseases, drug development, and personalized precision medicine.

The global clinical genome market size is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 19.8%, from approximately $5.5 billion in 2019 to $13.55 billion in 2024. Although currently centered on the U.S. market, the Asia-Pacific region, which is in the early stages of growth, is expected to expand significantly. In South Korea, if DTC (Direct to Customer) becomes widespread as in the U.S., the solutions built through this collaboration are expected to be widely utilized.

Kim Yoon, CTO of SK Telecom, said, “Human genome research has been activated since the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003, but the interactions between the genome, metabolites in the body, and drugs are very complex and vary between individuals, making it one of the challenging issues requiring extensive research to fully understand.” He added, “SK Telecom plans to use this genome research collaboration as a stepping stone to enhance understanding of life phenomena including humans, ultimately contributing to a healthier and happier life.”

Park Woongyang, CEO of Geninus, said, “Through this collaboration, SK Telecom’s AI technology and Geninus’ genome big data and NGS-based analysis technology can create synergy.” He added, “We expect to take a step closer to overcoming intractable diseases including cancer through the realization of precision medicine from diagnosis to treatment.”