Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder that predominantly affects Scheduled Tribes in India. To combat this ailment, India is actively developing gene therapy using the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at eradicating the disease by 2047.
Researchers at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) have made significant strides in this area. They anticipate utilizing the CRISPR-Cas9 technique for treatment within the next six months to a year, potentially positioning India as a pioneer in this advanced therapy.
CRISPR-Cas9 is a revolutionary gene-editing tool that employs an enzyme to make precise cuts in DNA. Following this incision, a guide RNA inserts a modified genetic sequence at the targeted site, facilitating specific genetic alterations. Its speed and versatility make it a leading choice for genetic modifications.
The Indian government plays a pivotal role in this initiative. Vibhu Nayyar, Secretary of the Tribal Affairs Ministry, is optimistic about the outcomes of laboratory tests projected for completion by January 2025. Furthermore, the government aims to ensure that the therapy is both cost-effective and accessible to those in need.
Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram has highlighted the essential role of ground-level healthcare workers, including ASHAs and anganwadi workers, in screening and implementing this therapy. Their involvement is critical for reaching vulnerable tribal populations and for the initiative's overall success.
The mission plans to conduct over seven crore screenings among tribal populations in 17 States and Union Territories. To date, three crore screenings have been completed, showcasing significant progress in identifying individuals affected by sickle cell disease.
One of the major hurdles in implementing CRISPR-Cas9 therapy in India is ensuring that it remains cost-effective. Affordable technology is crucial for its widespread acceptance and success in eradicating sickle cell disease.
India's efforts are set against a backdrop of international developments, particularly following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's approval of CRISPR-Cas9 technology for treating sickle cell disease. This global context underscores the importance of India's initiatives in the fight against this genetic disorder.
The National Conclave on Generating Awareness on Sickle Cell Disease, organized by the Tribal Affairs Ministry in collaboration with the Birsa Munda Centre at AIIMS, aims to enhance awareness, strategize, and improve coordination among healthcare professionals and officials in the battle against sickle cell disease.
The overarching aim of India's mission against sickle cell disease is its complete eradication by 2047. This goal encompasses the development and implementation of effective gene therapy, extensive screening programs, and active participation from ground-level healthcare workers to reach affected populations.
Q1. What is the significance of CRISPR-Cas9 in treating sickle cell disease?
Answer: CRISPR-Cas9 is pivotal as it allows precise gene editing, potentially correcting the genetic mutation responsible for sickle cell disease, thereby offering a possible cure.
Q2. How many screenings for sickle cell disease have been conducted in India?
Answer: India has completed approximately three crore screenings as part of its mission to screen over seven crore individuals among tribal populations.
Q3. What role do community health workers play in this initiative?
Answer: Community health workers, including ASHAs and anganwadi workers, are crucial for screening efforts and implementing therapy, ensuring outreach to vulnerable populations.
Q4. What is the Indian government’s timeline for the gene therapy initiative?
Answer: The government aims to achieve significant results from laboratory tests by January 2025, with a broader goal of eradicating sickle cell disease by 2047.
Q5. Why is affordability important for CRISPR-Cas9 therapy?
Answer: Making the therapy affordable is vital to ensure widespread access and acceptance, which is essential for the successful eradication of sickle cell disease.
Question 1: What is the primary goal of India's initiative against sickle cell disease?
A) Increase awareness
B) Eradicate the disease by 2047
C) Develop new healthcare policies
D) Enhance international collaboration
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which gene-editing tool is being used in India to combat sickle cell disease?
A) TALEN
B) CRISPR-Cas9
C) Zinc-finger nucleases
D) RNA interference
Correct Answer: B
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