| Title: | IMPACT: an open-source workflow for unified variant interpretation using phenotype-driven filtering |
| Journal: | npj Genomic Medicine |
| Published: | 2 Aug 2026 |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41525-026-00603-x |
| URL: | https://www.nature.com/articles/s41525-026-00603-x_reference.pdf |
Publication 21236
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Abstract
Comprehensive interpretation of whole-genome sequencing data for phenotypes with complex genetic architecture requires integrating diverse variant classes, but most workflows remain focused on single-nucleotide changes and small indels. We present IMPACT, an open-source, phenotype-configurable pipeline that harmonizes preprocessing, applies variant-specific annotation, and consolidates single-nucleotide variants, indels, structural variants, and copy-number variants within an interactive R Shiny interface. Applied to the UK Biobank cohorts with deafness (n = 126) and epilepsy (n = 41), IMPACT prioritized 565 and 126 variants, respectively. Of these, 512 and 103 were non-incidental, phenotype-relevant candidates, which were subsequently reviewed using ACMG-aligned evidence and classified as pathogenic or candidate variants of uncertain significance where supported. All deafness participants and 87.8% of epilepsy participants carried at least one candidate variant, with configurations ranging from single high-impact variants to compound heterozygotes spanning variant classes. By coupling phenotype-aware filtering with cross-type visualization, IMPACT addresses critical gaps in genome interpretation and offers a scalable foundation for research-driven curation and precision medicine.</p>
2 Authors
- Nicholas A. Boehler
- Hai-Ying Mary Cheng
1 Application
| Application ID | Title |
|---|---|
| 102672 | Identification of novel copy number variants involved in deafness phenotypes using whole-genome sequencing data |
Enabling scientific discoveries that improve human health