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In a significant advancement for cancer research in India, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has launched the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA). Announced just days before World Cancer Day, this initiative aims to revolutionize the early detection and treatment of breast cancer by identifying genetic markers specific to the Indian population.
A Step Towards Personalized Cancer Treatment
The primary objective of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas is to help researchers and medical professionals detect cancer-specific biomarkers in India. These biomarkers will assist in the early identification of breast cancer and facilitate the development of new targeted drug treatments tailored to the genetic makeup of Indian patients.
The cancer genome project was initially launched in 2020 by IIT Madras. Since then, researchers have conducted whole exome sequencing on 960 DNA samples extracted from 480 breast cancer patients across various regions of India. The dataset which is now publicly available on www.bcga.iitm.ac.in, is expected to benefit researchers and healthcare professionals both within India and internationally.
Understanding the Indian Cancer Genome: Insights from Experts
Speaking about the significance of this development, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras had emphasized the uniqueness of breast cancer mutations across different regions of India. According to him, cancer-causing genetic mutations may vary depending on geographical and genetic factors. Therefore, a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment may not be effective.
He explained that the BCGA dataset would provide a clearer picture of how DNA changes lead to breast cancer in different individuals. This will help medical professionals develop personalized treatment plans based on specific mutations rather than relying on generic cancer medications.
The Three Key Outcomes of This Research
Prof. Kamakoti highlighted three major benefits expected from this genomic research:
- Expanding the Cancer Genome Database: India has a vast population of 1.4 billion people and currently, only a few thousand genome sequences have been mapped. With more samples added over time, the BCGA could become a comprehensive reference database, representing all possible genetic mutations in Indian cancer patients.
- Integration with Health Checkups for Early Detection: By incorporating genetic mutation screening into routine medical checkups, especially for middle-aged women, doctors can identify cancer-related mutations before symptoms appear. This approach allows for preventive measures rather than waiting for the disease to develop.
- Early Detection Before Conventional Tests: One of the most critical aspects of this research is that genetic mutations linked to breast cancer might begin developing long before a tumour becomes detectable through traditional methods like mammograms or biopsies. Identifying these mutations at an early stage could help in preventing cancer before it fully develops.
A Promising Future for Cancer Research in India
The launch of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas marks a major step towards understanding cancer at a genetic level and developing India-specific treatments. By making this genetic data openly accessible, IIT Madras is paving the way for further research, improved diagnosis, and personalized medicine.
As more data is collected and analyzed, this initiative has the potential to transform cancer treatment in India, making it more efficient, precise and preventive rather than purely reactive.
Affordable Cancer Diagnosis: The Next Step in Genomic Research
Sridhar Sivasubbu, Chief Diagnostics and Research Officer, emphasized the significance of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA), calling it a preliminary indicator of the health challenges faced by the Indian population. He highlighted how this dataset could pave the way for more effective and affordable diagnostic solutions.
One of the key outcomes of genetic research is the ability to detect specific mutations linked to diseases like breast cancer. According to Sivasubbu, the next step after identifying these mutations is the development of diagnostic kits that can efficiently and affordably screen for genetic abnormalities.
While sequencing the entire genome of every Indian citizen is not a practical or cost-effective solution, targeted diagnostic kits can provide an economical and scalable alternative. These kits would allow for mass screening by making early detection more accessible to the general population.
Reducing Costs: Lessons from COVID-19 Testing
Sivasubbu drew a comparison between genomic diagnostics and COVID-19 testing, explaining how technological advancements helped drastically reduce testing costs. Initially, RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 cost around ₹5,000, but with innovation and increased production, the price dropped to as low as ₹150.
A similar cost-reduction model can be applied to cancer diagnostics. By optimizing production and streamlining the screening process, the price of genetic testing can be brought down significantly by making it affordable for large-scale implementation.
Making Cancer Screening More Accessible
The ultimate goal of this initiative is to enable widespread screening at an affordable cost. With low-cost diagnostic kits, healthcare providers can identify cancer risk factors early, allowing for timely intervention and preventive care.
By leveraging genomic research and innovative cost-cutting mechanisms, India can bridge the gap between advanced medical technology and public healthcare by ensuring that early cancer detection is not limited to only those who can afford expensive genetic tests.
Understanding How Cancer Develops: The Role of Gene Mutations
Our bodies are composed of trillions of cells, which come together to form tissues and organs. These cells function according to instructions provided by genes inside their nucleus. These genetic instructions determine when a cell should grow, work, divide, and eventually die, ensuring that the body remains healthy. However, sometimes DNA changes or gets damaged, leading to a process called mutation. When a gene mutates, it may stop working correctly because its genetic instructions become faulty. This can result in cells that should remain inactive starting to grow uncontrollably, which may lead to the development of cancer.
Cancer occurs when normal cells transform into cancerous cells due to gene mutations. These mutations can happen in different ways:
- Inherited Mutations – Some people are born with genetic mutations passed down from their parents. These inherited mutations can increase the risk of developing cancer later in life.
- Age-Related Mutations – As we grow older, our genes naturally wear out which leads to making them more prone to damage. Over time, this can lead to errors in cell division, potentially causing cancer.
- Environmental Factors – Exposure to harmful substances can damage DNA and cause mutations.
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