Benefits and Roles of Blockchain in Genomics

Abstract

Genomic data provide tremendous healthcare prospects. Large genetic dataset clinical interpretations can enhance healthcare and enable personalized therapy. Genomic data, unlike traditional medical data, indirectly reveals information about offspring and relations of the data owner and remains valid after the owner dies, making genomic dataset sharing difficult. Genomic data must be controlled and owned. Blockchain technology might replace distributed systems to deliver safe and accountable infrastructure. Blockchain-based genomics infrastructure research is rising. In this review chapter, we analyze commercial and academic activities and discusses important potential and obstacles. Blockchain is an immutable transaction record that provides a secure, decentralized system. Users of the network verify transactions using cryptographically signed blocks. In this review, we tried to outline EHR and genetic data exchange issues. Second, we explain why blockchain technology is suited for genomics and healthcare applications. Thirdly, we explain the Ethereum-based blockchain structure, which is better for genomic data–sharing platforms. Fourthly, we assess blockchain-based EHR and genomic data–sharing systems, evaluate their pros and cons, and classify them using various criteria. Finally, we discuss open concerns and provide our advice. In conclusion, blockchain technology may help life sciences and healthcare diagnose, monitor, and treat diseases by combining-omics data with other data types.