Genome India – how’s this data bank going to help India improve its healthcare

Scientists in India have recently announced completion of whole genome sequencing of 10,000 individuals that might throw light on the genetic variations that are related to specific diseases, lifestyle disorders, prevalent in the country.

This as a reference data will help in developing more effective treatments through lifestyle modifications and personalised drugs.

The whole genome sequencing, under Genome India project, was initiated to collect genetic data set of at least 10000 people from across the country, to know how different are the genetic make up of Indians from the rest of the world, and what are the genetic mutations and related health issues, including some rare diseases, specific to different regions, communities, races etc., within the country.

These data will ultimately help understanding the genetic history of the population here and those specific information, which are relevant for scientific and clinical purposes, can be used to address diseases, birth defects and other healthcare requirements.

While the developed world has had this reference data specific to those populations earlier, many of the existing modern medicines and treatments were developed according to those references.

Here’s a peek into what is genome sequencing and what is the significance of creating such a kind of data base.