NIH Urged to Lead Global Genomic Data Sharing Push
Genome Canada, like the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), promotes open data sharing. However, the EU's upcoming GDPR poses challenges. International collaboration and data exchange are vital for lifesaving genomic applications. Yet, data is often trapped in isolated silos, hindering research progress.
The NIH's 2014 Genomic Data Sharing Policy aimed to boost data sharing. It requires applicants to submit data sharing plans and deposit non-human data upon publication, and human data upon acceptance. However, a 2014 survey revealed that many life science researchers do not prioritize data sharing plans in their reviews.
To foster change, the NIH should instruct reviewers to explicitly consider data sharing plans and past compliance. It should also prioritize data sharing in its grant-making decisions. Encouraging international partners to adopt broad data sharing policies can ensure global adoption. The NIH already collaborates with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the European Union (EU) to establish international data privacy standards for genomic data.
The NIH's role in advancing genomic data sharing is ongoing. By encouraging a culture shift, prioritizing data sharing, and working with international partners, the NIH can continue leading the way towards more accessible and useful genomic data.
