GENOME INDIA PROJECT (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)
Context: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) recently officially announced the completion of the '10,000 genome' project an endeavor aimed at establishing a reference database of whole-genome sequences originating from India.
Genome India Project
- About: It is a gene mapping initiative authorized and funded by the Department of Biotechnology and led by the Indian Institute of Science's Centre for Brain Research.
- Inspired from: Human Genome Project (HGP), an international effort that successfully decoded the entire human genome between 1990 and 2003.
- Genetic Database: Launched to establish a thorough database of genetic variations within the Indian populace.
- Aim: To sequence genomes of 10,000+ individuals across diverse regions to establish a reference genome.
- Priority Areas of Investigation
oPrecision Health
oRare Genetic Disorders
oMutation Spectrum of Genetic Diseases
oGenetic Epidemiology of Lifestyle Diseases
oTranslational Research
- Significance of the Genome India Project
oUnderstanding Unique Genetic Variants: Provides insight into genetic variants specific to India's population, enabling tailored drug and therapy development.
oUnraveling Genetic Underpinnings: Helps uncover genetic roots of prevalent chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer.
oDatabase for Diverse Population: India's diverse population, comprising over 4,600 groups, harbors distinct genetic variations, necessitating a specific database.
oUniqueness of Indian Genetic Landscape.
