Demonstrator video showcasing 1+MG federated analysis infrastructure - paving the way to federated learning
The European Genomic Data Infrastructure (GDI) project has released a technical demonstration video showcasing a first version of the 1+MG federated analysis infrastructure, analysing real-like synthetic data across six countries. The video shows a user in the Czech Republic analysing data distributed in five other GDI national nodes - Estonia, Germany, Portugal, Slovenia and Spain - without the data leaving its country of origin.
Analysing large, cross-border genomic datasets provides opportunities to address research questions that are currently out of reach, along with new ways to improve patient care. By staying in situ, the data remains secure and the rights of data owners are protected, supporting citizen trust and participation.
Federated analysis
The demonstration uses a type of large-scale genetic analysis that enables clinicians and researchers to identify genetic factors that influence how likely people are to develop common, complex diseases or respond to treatments. Such studies make it possible to connect genes to health outcomes at a population level, which can lead to better prevention, earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments.
The federated approach enables pooling of statistical power across Europe while respecting national laws. In addition, instead of creating massive central repositories, federated analysis makes use of existing national infrastructures, which is more efficient. Federated analysis paves the way for federated learning, which will power AI-driven healthcare advances and help secure Europe’s competitive position worldwide.
About the 1+MG infrastructure
GDI is deploying the 1+MG infrastructure built on existing technology, with the main challenge being the alignment of operational, technical and legal processes across the 24 countries involved in the project. The proof-of-concept video shows that the infrastructure can support a Europe-wide rollout. Its full potential will be realised once a common legal basis for consent has been established, enabling researchers and clinicians to work with real data in a secure and ethically robust way.
The GDI infrastructure is realising the 1+Million Genomes (1+MG) initiative to enable secure access to genomic and related phenotypic and clinical data across Europe. The infrastructure provides a model for how multi-country projects, particularly in the area of genomics, can be enabled by the European Health Data Space (EHDS). Genomics data will be incorporated into the EHDS in 2031, helping to deliver its ambition of secure cross-border access to genomic and health data and its reuse for research, innovation and policy.
The video follows two earlier technical demonstrations, which focused on use cases in infectious diseases and cancer. In addition, a series of three videos is available for citizens and healthcare providers introducing the 1+MG initiative.
Find out more
- Cancer and infectious disease use case demonstrations (2 videos)
- 1+MG videos for citizens and healthcare professionals (3 videos)
Posted: 24 Sep 2025