Genome Sequencing programme
- August 2, 2020
- Posted by: OptimizeIAS Team
- Category: DPN Topics
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Subject: Science and tech
Context:
Department of Biotechnology had launched a Pan India 1000 SARS–CoV-2 RNA Genome Sequencing programme to be done by Autonomous Institutes of DBT, collaborating with national laboratories and clinical organizations.
Concept:
- Genome sequencing involves revealing the order of bases present in the entire genome of an organism
- Genome: It is an organism’s complete set of DNA, including all of its genes. Each genome contains all of the information needed to build and maintain that organism
- Indian scientists have started genome sequencing strains of the novel coronavirus isolated from patients in different parts of the country as they work against time to track its spread and look for signs of emerging mutations.
- Generating at least 400 such sequences could help researchers extract valuable information on the behaviour of the deadly coronavirus in India
- This would help guide the strategies for designing potential treatments for local populations, vaccines and drugs that might have to undergo changes if the virus evolves over time.