From the Human Genome Project to becoming one of the leading multi-omics service providers in the U.S., MGI provides expert consultation and advanced tools to researchers worldwide who are tackling the most challenging questions in human health and disease.
The McDonnell Genome Institute (MGI) was established in 1993 as the Genome Sequencing Center, initially focusing on large-scale sequencing projects. The institute’s early involvement in the C. elegans genome project played a key role in developing genome mapping and sequencing techniques that would later be applied to the Human Genome Project. At that time, MGI’s sequencing capacity was around 100 kilobases per day.
By 2005, MGI had significantly expanded its capacity, generating 200 metabases of data per day using 135 sequencing instruments. Today, technological advancements have allowed MGI to achieve even greater scale, with just two NovaSeq platforms producing up to 18 terabases of data in a single day. This evolution in technology is supported by a robust infrastructure, including dual data centers with redundant fiber connections and power systems designed for uninterrupted operation.
MGI has been involved in numerous large-scale genomics projects, including sequencing 25% of the human genome and one-third of the mouse genome. A notable project includes the $30 million maize genome project, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), aimed at sequencing the maize genome to advance agricultural research and crop development. MGI’s contributions continue to span across both human and plant genomics.
In recent years, MGI merged with the Genome Technology Access Center (GTAC) at WashU, combining large-scale sequencing capabilities with RNA sequencing expertise and industry connections. Our new integrated organization was particularly critical during the COVID-19 pandemic, as MGI performed a quarter-million COVID-19 screenings for WashU and the state of Missouri, helping to maintain operations at the university and across the region.
MGI now offers a wide range of services, including gene editing, stem cell research, mass spectrometry, proteomics, and functional imaging technologies. In 2014, MGI expanded its capabilities with the establishment of The Genome Engineering & Stem Cell Center (GESC). With over seven years of experience, GESC has produced more than 600 cell lines and 400 mouse models. The center assists investigators with a wide range of functional genomic studies using advanced genome-editing technologies. In 2022, MGI further enhanced its ability to support cutting-edge research with the launch of the Mass Spectrometry Technology Access Center (MTAC), which offers proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and imaging mass spectrometry technologies. MTAC supports and educates researchers worldwide, helping them address critical questions in basic, translational, and clinical research. Most recently, MGI added Functional Imaging for Variant Elucidation (FIVE), combining functional genomics with advanced imaging techniques to directly observe complex phenotypes and overcome the limitations of traditional high-throughput studies.
Since our beginnings, MGI has evolved from large-scale genome mapping to a comprehensive multi-omics center—all designed to work together with one purpose: finding answers that directly improve human health. Our integrated platforms support biomarker discovery and drive research into diseases, specifically neurological conditions and aging-related disorders, producing precise data that accelerates breakthroughs in patient care.
Jeff Milbrandt, Executive Director
With these expanded capabilities, MGI is now better equipped than ever to support researchers on campus, at other universities, and those within biotech and pharmaceutical companies. MGI’s approach emphasizes consultation and guidance, ensuring a deep understanding of each project to deliver the most relevant data. The institute is known for its scientific rigor, data quality, and timely delivery. MGI stays at the forefront of the rapidly evolving multi-omics landscape, with advanced robotics enabling the scalability of projects from a few samples to tens of thousands.
Combining scientific excellence, unparalleled experience, and superior technology, MGI bridges exploratory research with real-world applications. These capabilities help organizations fulfill the promise of precision medicine for patients. The McDonnell Genome Institute remains committed to our mission: Making Discoveries that Change the World.
Technology Development
For over three decades, the McDonnell Genome Institute has been at the forefront of genomics technology, continually advancing its capabilities to support groundbreaking research. From early genome mapping projects to today’s high-throughput sequencing and multi-omics platforms, MGI’s evolution reflects a commitment to driving innovation in human health and disease research. Learn more about this journey from Bob Fulton, our Director of Technology Development, and discover how MGI’s technological advancements continue to empower researchers around the world.
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