Genome India Initiative

GS-III: Genome India Initiative

Context

India is planning to launch its first Human Genome Mapping project.

What is Genome?

A genome is an organism’s complete set of DNA, including all its genes.
It contains all the information needed to build and maintain that organism.
By sequencing the genome, researchers can discover the functions of genes and identify which of them are critical for life.

Genome Initiative

The project involves scanning of 20,000 Indian genomes (in the next five years) in order to develop diagnostic tests and effective therapies for treating diseases such as cancer.
It is to be implemented by The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology.

The project is to be carried out in two phases:

The first phase of the project involves sequencing the complete genomes of 10,000 healthy Indians.
The second phase involves genome sequencing of 10,000 diseased individuals.
Data on human sequencing would be accessible to researchers through a proposed National Biological Data Centre envisaged in Biological Data Storage, Access and Sharing Policy.

Significance

Healthcare: For new advancements in medical science (like predictive diagnosis and precision medicine, genomic information) and in disease management, genome sequencing can play a crucial role.

Through genome sequencing methodology, researchers and clinicians can easily detect the disease related to genetic disorders.
Genetic Screening: The genome project will lead to improved techniques of genetic screening for diseases prior to birth.

Way Forward

Discrimination: Discrimination based on genotype is a possible consequence of genome sequencing.
Ownership and Control: Apart from the issue of privacy and confidentiality, questions of ownership and control of genetic information become critical.
Fair Use of Genetic Data: For insurance, employment, criminal justice, education, adoption, and the military is necessary.

Source: The Hindu

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