International Human Epigenome Consortium (IHEC)

Overview

If the genome is an instruction manual encoding all the biological functions of cells, then the epigenome is the set of annotations and side notes that further dictates how the instructions encoded by the genome are implemented and enforced. The International Human Epigenome Consortium (IHEC) is a global consortium with the primary goal of providing free access to high-resolution reference human epigenome maps for normal and disease cell types to the research community. The epigenome reference maps will be of great utility in basic and applied research. They are likely to have an immediate impact on the understanding of many diseases, and will hopefully lead to the discovery of new means to treat or manage them. In addition to this work, many members support related projects to improve epigenomic technologies, investigate epigenetic regulation in disease processes, and explore broader gene-environment interactions in human health.

From 26 to 28 October 2018, epigenomics scientists and funding agency members from around the world will get together in Hong Kong. For the first time The Hong Kong Epigenomics Project (Hong Kong, China) has the pleasure to host the IHEC annual meeting at the Jockey Club Institute for Advanced Study of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. The three-day meeting will begin with the internal IHEC day (closed to external participants), where members will discuss the important issues regarding IHEC policies. Then it will be followed by 2 days of scientific talks (open to all registrants) by top epigenomics researchers which offer intensive exchange of ideas and interactions opportunities among the talents of the field.