Fresenius Medical Care announced a strategic collaboration between its clinical research organization Frenova, precision medicine company Nephronomics, and GENEWIZ by Azenta Life Sciences to advance genomic analysis efforts for kidney disease research. The partnership aims to leverage cutting-edge genomic sequencing technologies to better understand kidney, cardiovascular, and metabolic diseases while driving precision medicine advancements.
Transforming Kidney Care Through Genomics
"Kidney disease affects each individual differently, shaped by their unique biology and genetic makeup," said Frank Maddux, M.D., Global Chief Medical Officer and member of the Management Board at Fresenius Medical Care AG. "These differences influence not only how the disease manifests, but also which treatments and therapies are most effective. By harnessing advanced genetic and molecular insights, we can transform kidney care—making it more personalized, precise, and responsive to each patient's distinct needs."
The collaboration centers on Frenova's My Reason® genomics research program, a kidney-focused data registry composed of genomic and clinical patient data designed to uncover insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying kidney disease. To date, more than 35,000 participants have been registered in the program and provided biospecimens, with a goal of reaching 50,000 participants over the next two years.
Building the World's Largest Kidney Disease Database
"This large-scale whole genome sequencing initiative marks a pivotal milestone in our journey to build the most comprehensive genotype-phenotype database for patients with cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic diseases," said Jan Walter, President of Frenova. The collaboration provides the analysis and gene sequencing necessary to extract the data's rich insights.
James Sietstra, Founder of Nephronomics, emphasized the significance of the dataset: "The My Reason® dataset, built through Frenova's unparalleled reach and expertise in nephrology care, represents the world's most robust end-stage kidney disease cohort, where many genetic signals are strongest. This collaboration will enable us to unlock new insights that not only advance scientific understanding but also translate into genetically informed therapeutics in the cardio-kidney-metabolic field."
Advanced Sequencing and AI-Driven Analysis
Nephronomics holds exclusive commercial rights to the My Reason® dataset, which anchors the Nephronomics Atlas, a resource of deep clinical and genomic cardio-kidney-metabolic (CKM) disease data. The company aims to develop targeted therapies and redefine CKM disease care through precision medicine insights by leveraging proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) models trained on this comprehensive dataset to identify novel disease subtypes, protective genetic variants, and therapeutic targets.
GENEWIZ will apply its validated DNA sequencing technologies and expertise to generate large-scale genomic data from biospecimens collected through Frenova's extensive nephrology research network. In addition to sequencing, Azenta will provide long-term storage of samples through its global biorepository network. With over 25 years of experience in DNA sequencing and multiomics analysis, Azenta is positioned to provide end-to-end solutions for complex research programs.
"We are thrilled to partner with Frenova and Nephronomics and contribute to the My Reason® research program," said Ginger Zhou, President, GENEWIZ. "This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our shared mission to advance precision medicine and improve outcomes for patients."
Global Impact on Kidney Disease Care
Fresenius Medical Care serves as the world's leading provider of products and services for individuals with renal diseases, with around 4.2 million patients worldwide regularly undergoing dialysis treatment. Through its network of 3,675 dialysis clinics, the company provides dialysis treatments for approximately 299,000 patients around the globe.
The Nephronomics Atlas contains matching whole genome and longitudinal clinical data of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD), including comprehensive laboratory data, diagnosis histories, treatments, and raw radiology images. This genomics-driven approach uses an individual's genetic information to guide medical decisions, enabling more targeted and effective treatments, diagnostics, and preventative strategies.
