Rabat – Morocco has taken a major step forward in medical genetics with the introduction of Whole Exome Sequencing (WES), a thorough diagnostic tool that is reshaping genetic testing on a global scale.
This advanced method, known as Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), can detect up to 85% of genetic mutations linked to complex and inherited diseases. It is expected to significantly enhance the accuracy and speed of diagnosis for a wide range of medical conditions.
WES is now available at the Anoual Center Laboratory in Casablanca, making it the first facility in Morocco to offer the test. The center is internationally accredited, meeting global standards for quality and performance.
Although new to Morocco, WES was developed around 2009 and has since gained traction in clinical and research settings worldwide. The technique emerged after scientists discovered that the majority of genetic diseases stem from changes in a small portion of our DNA known as the “exome”— the part responsible for telling the body how to produce proteins. While the exome only makes up about 1–2% of the human genome, it holds the majority of the crucial information for diagnosing genetic conditions.
Rather than sequencing all of a person’s DNA, WES focuses solely on this key section, making the process quicker, more affordable, and highly effective in uncovering the root causes of many diseases.
The technology can analyze over 20,000 genes in one go, using a simple sample of saliva, blood, or other DNA-rich material. Unlike traditional methods that assess genes individually, WES offers a comprehensive view of the genome in a single, fast analysis.
In addition to reducing diagnostic time and cost, WES also supports healthcare providers in choosing more precise and effective treatments, helping to avoid unnecessary or inappropriate therapies.
The launch follows a successful pilot phase carried out through the lab’s GENOMAf platform (Genome of Africa), a program focused on molecular biology research.
Genetic diseases are a significant public health concern in Morocco, often linked to both genetic diversity and social practices such as consanguineous marriages. These unions, which involve relatives, increase the risk of children inheriting the same defective gene from both parents.
Among the most common genetic conditions in Morocco is alpha-thalassemia, a blood disorder prevalent in the northern regions that affects the body’s ability to produce hemoglobin. Sickle cell disease is also present and causes red blood cells to adopt an abnormal shape, leading to complications like anemia and chronic pain.
To better understand and manage these conditions, the Moroccan Genetic Disease Database (MGDD) has documented over 425 mutations associated with 259 genetic disorders. This resource plays a key role in supporting research, diagnosis, and public awareness of genetic health challenges in the country.
