Human Longevity, Inc. (HLI), the human health information technology and health care company, announced a multi-year agreement with Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, to conduct whole genome sequencing of tens of thousands of de-identified samples from Genentech. HLI, using proprietary tools and unique expertise, will sequence genomes to 30x coverage and analyze the data. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.

“We are excited to be working with Genentech so that patient samples can be analyzed according to more precise genetic categories,” said J Craig Venter, HLI CEO and co-founder.  “At HLI we have built unprecedented capabilities for whole genome sequencing and interpretation to enable a wide array of advances in health care. The application of our capabilities to discover new diagnostics and targeted therapies is one of the most relevant today.”

HLI is focused on building the world’s most comprehensive integrated human genotype and phenotype database, the HLI Knowledgebase. To achieve that, HLI has established the largest human genome sequencing center in the world, and is sequencing and analyzing complete, 30x coverage genomes using Illumina’s HiSeq X Ten sequencing machines. HLI also utilizes Illumina HiSeq 2500 and Pac Bio RS II instruments.

“Genentech’s goal is to harness the power of widespread whole genome sequencing to identify new therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers,” said James Sabry, senior vice president and global head of Genentech partnering.  “We are pleased to join forces with HLI and leverage their expertise in DNA sequencing and analysis along with scientific expertise to accelerate our drug discovery efforts and ultimately bring to market promising new therapies for patients with serious medical conditions.”

HLI and Genentech take the privacy and protection of individual’s personal information very seriously. All sample and patient data elements are de-identified to remove all personally identifiable information.