Genome India Project
Department of Biotechnology has created the national resource data of whole genome sequencing of 10,074 healthy individuals. These individuals come from 83 heterogeneous populations from 99 different sites under the ‘Genome India’ project. Overall, the project aims to create a library of genetic variations. This data aims to serve scientific and medical communities, fostering genomic research. Hence, the Indian Biological Data Center (IBDC), a National Repository set up by this Department, has archived the data.
Experts will use this data to develop indigenous chips, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Overall, this will benefit the country’s healthcare system and contribute to the country’s bioeconomy. The Department has planned to fund translational research in which this dataset will serve as a template. This maximizes the benefits of the data generated under the ‘Genome India’ project. All things considered, researchers will be able to access this data under the provisions of the Biotech-PRIDE (Promotion of Research and Innovation through Data Exchange) Guidelines. The ‘Framework for Exchange of Data (FeED) Protocols’ outlines the procedures for data sharing, usage, and acknowledgment.
Creating and Using the Database
The Genome India project study has ensured equitable sampling across India’s linguistic, social, and regional groups. It was carried out throughout the country, thus collecting approximately 36.7% of the samples from rural, 32.2% from urban, and 31.1% from tribal populations. The extensive database we have created is a testament to our commitment to ongoing research and development.
The Department’s initial focus is translational research using the already available dataset. It is seeking proposals nationwide. However, the process is ongoing, and the department is committed to ensuring that the benefits of the ‘Genome India’ project continue to grow and evolve.
This information was given by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, MoS PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.
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Reference:
indian biological data centre (ibdc)
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