India Launches ‘Genome India’ Database

Sub : Sci

Sec : Biotech

Why in News

India has unveiled the ‘Genome India’ database, a groundbreaking compilation of 10,000 human genomes from 83 population groups.

Genome India Database:

The database includes 10,000 human genomes, representing 83 population groups from India.
These groups constitute approximately 2% of India’s 4,600 population groups.
Housed at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) in Faridabad, Haryana. Open to researchers worldwide, subject to adherence to data-sharing and privacy policies.
Identified 27 million low-frequency genetic variants, including 7 million unique variants not found in global reference databases.
Highlighted population-specific alleles (different versions of the same gene), which could have implications for targeted healthcare.
Applications:
Precision Medicine: The findings pave the way for personalized treatments and interventions.
Disease Research: Focused on understanding disease risks and improving clinical outcomes.
Aligns with similar genome databases worldwide, such as those in the USA and Europe.
Unlike other databases, the Indian initiative emphasizes population-specific insights without caste or tribe classifications.
Recognized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a step toward bolstering India’s biotechnology economy and biotech-based manufacturing.

What is a Gene?

A gene is a segment of DNA that carries the instructions for producing specific proteins or functional molecules. Found on chromosomes within the cell nucleus.
Determines hereditary traits, including physical characteristics and susceptibility to certain diseases.

What are Alleles?

Different versions of the same gene found at the same locus (position) on a chromosome.
Types:
- Dominant Allele: Expressed when present (e.g., brown eyes).
- Recessive Allele: Expressed only when both alleles are recessive (e.g., blue eyes).

Responsible for genetic diversity. Used in studying hereditary diseases and genetic traits.

What is a Genome?

The complete set of DNA in an organism, including all its genes.
Contains approximately 20,000–25,000 genes spread across 23 pairs of chromosomes.

What is DNA Profiling?

A forensic technique used to identify individuals by analysing unique patterns in their DNA.
Applications:
- Criminal investigations and paternity testing.
- Identifying remains in disasters or wars.
- Research in population genetics and genealogy.
Uses short tandem repeats (STRs) to differentiate DNA samples.
Governed by privacy and ethical guidelines under laws like India’s DNA Technology Regulation Bill.