Chula and BGI Collaborate on CHANGS Project for Holistic Health Analysis of Thailand’s Elderly Population
Chulalongkorn University has partnered with the Beijing Genomics Institute (BGI) to launch the CHANGS (Comprehensive Health Analysis for Aging Study) project, which focuses on the holistic health of the elderly population in Thailand. The official partnership was established on January 31, 2025, during a signing ceremony at Chulalongkorn Hospital, in collaboration with the Thai Red Cross Society. Key individuals at the event included Associate Professor Dr. Chanchai Sittipunt, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, who represented the university president, Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, along with Dr. Wang Jian, Co-founder and Chairman of BGI Group.
Project Objectives
The CHANGS project aims to examine the health status of elderly individuals in Thailand by employing omics technology and artificial intelligence-based bioinformatics for data analysis. In this initiative, Chulalongkorn University will be responsible for collecting clinical data and samples from volunteers, while BGI will offer technological support and assist with data analysis.
Expected Outcomes
It is expected that the outcomes of the CHANGS initiative will provide valuable insights into the aging process. The results may lead to advancements in medical innovations, healthcare strategies, and disease prevention for older adults. The initiative seeks to improve the quality of life for the elderly, enhance self-care capabilities, reduce healthcare costs, and foster a healthier aging society in Thailand. Moreover, the diagnostic methods and treatments developed from this project could have positive implications for elderly populations globally.
Talent Development Program
The collaboration has also led to the establishment of the “Chula-BGI Joint Talent Training Program,” which aims to develop students and personnel in essential fields, thereby supporting future research initiatives. This program was acknowledged by attendees, including Professor Dr. Kearkiat Praditpornsilpa, Head of the Healthy Aging Project at Chulalongkorn University, and Dr. Miguel Esteban from BGI.
Ongoing Cooperation
Associate Professor Dr. Chanchai Sittipunt highlighted the ongoing cooperation between Chulalongkorn University and various local and international organizations. He noted BGI’s contributions to genomics and disease detection technologies, which enhance research published in prominent international journals. The partnership aims to combine BGI’s technological capabilities with Chulalongkorn University’s expertise in studying healthy elderly populations to address significant aging-related questions at a molecular level.
Student Exchange Programs
Additionally, the collaboration includes student exchange programs at both the master’s and doctoral levels, promoting a comprehensive understanding of aging factors and improving the quality of life for elderly populations.
(Original news source: Chulalongkorn University)
