Project Baby Magnolia

Project Baby Magnolia is an exciting research project at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) focused on helping critically ill infants/children born with complex health issues identify potential genetic contributions to their disease. For these unique patients, the earlier a genetic diagnosis, the better the potential to manage, treat, and reduce suffering to each patient and their families.

Project Baby Magnolia, the Molecular Center of Health and Disease, and several divisions in the Department of Pediatrics (Neonatology and Genetics)/Children's Hospital will work together to implement a technology called whole genome sequencing (WGS) in an attempt to provide a genetic diagnosis to patients with complex health issues. WGS is a genetic test that reads through and catalogs most of each child's DNA sequence or genome to look for changes in the 'spelling' of genes that could cause the disease. This use of genetic information along with patient information is typically referred to as genomic medicine. 

UMMC and Children's of Mississippi serve a vital role in caring for our sickest and most vulnerable children. We hope that Project Baby Magnolia and the opportunity to train a new generation of doctors and researchers in genomic medicine will have a significant impact on the lives of Mississippi's precious infants, children and their families.