Genome data of 10 thousand Indians available for research

Why in the NEWS?

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a massive dataset of 8 petabytes of data stored at the Indian Biological Data Centre, calling it a "milestone" in biotechnology research.

Key Points:

• Genome sequencing data of 10,000 Indians from 99 different populations is now available to researchers to help them develop medicines and medical solutions specific to the Indian population.
  

What is genome sequencing?

• This is a process in which the complete DNA sequence of the genome of an organism is determined.

Human Genome

• The human genome exists in the form of DNA, which is a long chain and contains all the genetic instructions.
• This chain of DNA is made up of four major nucleotides (adenine, thymine, cytosine and guanine) which occur in different combinations.
• The human genome is divided into 23 pairs of chromosomes, which include 22 pairs of autosomal chromosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes (X and Y).
• Each chromosome contains thousands of genes.
• A gene is a part of DNA that gives instructions to make a specific protein or chromosome

Key aspects of genome data:

• DNA sequencing: 
  • This process is done to read and understand the sequence of an organism's DNA. 
  • This gives scientists the structure of that organism's chromosomes and genetic information.
• Genetic diversity: 
  • Genome data shows how much genetic variation can occur within the same species.
• Diseases and treatments: 
  • Genome data is particularly used in medicine, such as personalized medicine, where drugs and treatments are selected taking into account each person's genome.
• Epigenetics: 
  • Genome data can also show how environmental factors can affect the expression of an organism's genes, called epigenetics.
• Structural and functional studies: 
  • Genome data also helps scientists understand how genes work and their role in the body.
• Detecting genetic diseases: 
  • Genome data helps understand how genetic defects and mutations can cause various diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Importance of genome data:

• Health and medicine: 
  • Genome data is used in personalized medicine, new treatment methods, and the development of life-saving drugs.
• Genetic research: 
  • It helps scientists study various genetic elements and their functions.
• Agriculture: 
  • Genome data of plants and animals can help improve agriculture and lead to high-quality production.

What is ‘Genome India Project’?

• The history of the Genome India Project began as a major biotechnology initiative in India, aimed at studying the genetic variations found in the Indian population.

Initial idea and need (2017-2018):

• The idea of ​​the Genome India Project first originated in the Indian government and scientific community in 2017, when it was realized that there was a need to understand the genetic variations present in different ethnic groups and geographical locations in India.

Government approval and launch (2020):

• The Genome India Project was officially approved by the Government of India in 2020. Its aim was to conduct a detailed and scientific study of the genetic structure of the Indian population, leading to improvements in the field of health care and medicine.

Objectives and key elements (2020 onwards):

• The main objective of this project was to create a detailed database of genetic variations found in the Indian population.

Data Storage and Security (2020-2025):

• The data will be completely anonymous so that no information related to the identity of an individual is made public.
• A managed access system will also be developed to share the data, under which researchers will get permission.

Global Contribution and Future (2025 and beyond):

• The Genome India project aims to contribute to genetics and medicine not only in India but also globally.
• The data obtained from this project will help in more health-based research, treatment of diseases and development of medicines in India.
• Also, it will strengthen the biopharma industry, giving India an opportunity to become self-reliant in the health sector.