Genome India Project

About Genome India Project: 

• It is a national initiative started in January 2020 to map the genetic diversity of India’s population.
• It is a multi-institution consortium project which is supported and funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India.
• It aims to decode the genetic diversity of India’s population through large scale genome sequencing.
• Genome India Project Aims
  • Create an exhaustive catalog of genetic variations (common, low frequency, rare, single nucleotide polymorphisms, or SNPs, and structural variations) in Indians.
  • Create a reference haplotype structure for Indians. This reference panel can be used for imputing missing genetic variation in future studies.
  • Design genome-wide arrays for research and diagnostics at an affordable cost.
  • Establish a biobank for DNA and plasma collected for future use in research.
• Genome India Project Key highlights:
  • Genome sequencing of 10,000 individuals: The project successfully sequenced genomes of 10,074 samples, covering 99 ethnic groups.
  • Creation of a genetic database: Data is securely stored at the Indian Biological Data Centre and will serve as a reference for researchers.
  • Genetic insights for public health: The study revealed unique genetic variations, some with clinical significance, paving the way for precision medicine.
  • Phase 1 analysis: Detailed quality checks and joint genotyping of 5,750 samples have uncovered rare genetic variations unique to Indian populations.
• This ‘Genome India’ database will now be available to researchers across the world for investigations and is housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), in Faridabad, Haryana.
• Significance: It can help advance the treatment of genetic and infectious diseases.

Q1: What is Genetic Screening?

It is a tool used to identify individuals who are at a higher risk of developing a particular disorder or who carry a specific gene for a disorder. It is used to identify changes in an individual’s genetic material, such as their chromosomes, genes, or proteins. 

Source: IT