Genetic Mapping of Indians: Unlocking Health and Heritage

1. Project Overview:
2. • Launched by CSIR’s Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad.
   • Seeks to sequence 10,000 Indian genomes to create a comprehensive genetic database.
2. Diversity and Scale:
3. • India’s 1.4 billion population includes over 4,600 ethnic groups with distinct genetic profiles.
   • Aims to capture variations across communities, addressing underrepresentation in global genomic data (only 0.1% of sequenced genomes are Indian).
3. Methodology:
4. • Involves whole-genome sequencing to map all 3 billion base pairs in an individual’s DNA.
   • Uses advanced sequencing machines and computational analysis at CCMB.
4. Health Benefits:
5. • Identifies genetic markers for diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, prevalent in India.
   • Enables personalized medicine by tailoring treatments based on genetic profiles.
   • Supports early diagnosis and prevention strategies for hereditary conditions.
5. Ancestry and Migration:
6. • Traces population origins and migration patterns, revealing India’s historical diversity.
   • Helps individuals understand their genetic heritage, similar to global platforms like 23andMe.
6. Challenges:
7. • High cost of sequencing (₹50,000–₹1 lakh per genome) and need for advanced infrastructure.
   • Requires collaboration with hospitals and research institutes for sample collection.
   • Ethical concerns around data privacy and potential misuse of genetic information.
7. Current Progress:
8. • CCMB has sequenced over 1,000 genomes, with plans to scale up through partnerships.
   • Data stored securely with restricted access to protect privacy.
8. Global Context:
9. • Inspired by projects like the UK’s 100,000 Genomes Project and Iceland’s deCODE initiative.
   • Aims to position India as a leader in genomic research and precision medicine.
9. Future Applications:
10. • Potential to develop India-specific genetic tests and therapies.
    • May inform public health policies and targeted interventions for high-risk groups.

Key Terms:

• Genome: Complete set of DNA in an organism, containing all genetic information.
• Whole-genome sequencing: Process of determining the entire DNA sequence of an individual.
• Personalized medicine: Treatment tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup.
• Genetic markers: Specific DNA sequences linked to diseases or traits.
• CSIR: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India’s premier R&D organization.
• CCMB: Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, leading genomic research in India.
• Data privacy: Protection of sensitive genetic information from unauthorized access.

Link To The Original Article – https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/how-will-genetic-mapping-of-indians-help-explained/article69443842.ece