The GenomeIndia Project is a national initiative dedicated to sequencing the genomes of various Indian populations. This project aims to create a comprehensive catalogue of genetic variations across the country. It is coordinated by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), based in Hyderabad, in collaboration with numerous research centres.
The study encompasses genome sequencing from 9,772 unrelated and healthy Indian individuals. These individuals were selected from 85 distinct population groups, which include 32 tribal and 53 non-tribal communities.
The researchers uncovered a staggering 180 million genetic variants. Key findings include:
Blood samples were collected from nearly 20,000 individuals as part of the study. The data collection structure was as follows:
Whole genome sequencing was conducted on DNA extracted from 10,074 individuals, with sequencing data reported for 9,772 individuals.
The data generated from the GenomeIndia Project can significantly contribute to:
The genetic data is securely stored in the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC), located at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology in Faridabad, Haryana.
The GenomeIndia Project lays the groundwork for:
“A nation’s future depends on how well it understands and nurtures the uniqueness of its people.”
Q1. What is the main goal of the GenomeIndia Project?
Answer: The primary goal of the GenomeIndia Project is to sequence the genomes of diverse Indian populations to catalog genetic variations, enhancing understanding of health and disease.
Q2. How many population groups were included in the study?
Answer: The study included participants from 85 distinct population groups, comprising 32 tribal and 53 non-tribal communities across India.
Q3. What are some applications of the findings from this project?
Answer: Findings can lead to the development of low-cost diagnostic tools, improved disease diagnosis, and advancements in personalized medicine tailored to the Indian population.
Q4. Where is the genetic data from the project stored?
Answer: The genomic data is stored at the Indian Biological Data Centre (IBDC) located in Faridabad, Haryana, ensuring secure data management.
Q5. Why is understanding genetic diversity important for public health?
Answer: Understanding genetic diversity helps in identifying population-specific health risks and tailoring public health policies and medical strategies to improve overall health outcomes.
Question 1: What is the primary focus of the GenomeIndia Project?
A) Sequencing genomes of animal species
B) Cataloging genetic variations in Indian populations
C) Developing new drugs for diseases
D) Studying climate change effects on health
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How many genetic variants were identified in the GenomeIndia Project?
A) 50 million
B) 180 million
C) 200 million
D) 100 million
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Which organization coordinates the GenomeIndia Project?
A) Indian Council of Medical Research
B) Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology
C) All India Institute of Medical Sciences
D) National Institute of Health
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What type of samples were collected for the GenomeIndia Project?
A) Saliva samples
B) Blood samples
C) Hair samples
D) Urine samples
Correct Answer: B
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