India launches 10,000 human genomes database

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh has unveiled the Framework for Exchange of Data Protocols (FeED) and the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) Portals, providing global researchers with access to 10,000 whole genome samples from India. These samples, collected under the GenomeIndia project, represent 83 population groups, accounting for approximately 2% of India’s 4,600 population groups.  

Key Highlights

  • Genetic Diversity:
    • The database includes genomes from a diverse set of 83 population groups, housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) in Faridabad, Haryana.
    • A preliminary analysis identified around 27 million low-frequency genetic variants, including 7 million unique variants not found in global reference databases.
  • Research and Applications:
    • The database serves as a foundation for research into disease mechanisms, drug responses, and genetic disorders.
    • Certain population groups exhibit higher frequencies of specific alleles, offering insights into population-specific disease risks and drug efficacy.
  • International Collaboration:
    • The GenomeIndia database is now open to researchers worldwide, fostering global collaboration in genomics research.

Significance of the GenomeIndia Project:

  • Precision Medicine:
    • The data enables targeted clinical interventions, paving the way for tailored treatments based on genetic profiles.
    • Applications include advancing mRNA-based vaccines, protein therapeutics, and treatments for genetic disorders.
  • Catalyst for Innovation:
    • The initiative, led by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), aims to drive breakthroughs in healthcare, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals, strengthening India’s position in genomic research and innovation.
    • This initiative is set to position India as a leader in genomics, enabling the development of genomic chips tailored to the Indian demographic, thereby enhancing the precision of genetic studies.

(Sources: The Hindu and PIB)

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