GENOME SEQUENCING : UNLOCKING THE CODE OF LIFE

 

Genome sequencing is the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organisms genome. It is a powerful tool that allows scientists to study the genetic basis of various traits and diseases , as well as to understand the evolutionary relationships between different species.

There are several different techniques that can be used for genome sequencing . They are

1. Whole genome sequencing : It involves the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome. This includes all of coding and non coding regions of the genome, as any regulatory elements . Whole genome sequencing is a powerful tool that allows scientists to study the genetic basis of various traits and diseases , as well as to understand the evolutionary relationships between different species.
2. Exome sequencing : It is a type of genome sequencing that focuses on exome which is the portion of the genome that consists of protein - coding genes . Exome sequencing is useful for studying the genetic basis of inherited diseases , as it allows researchers to identify mutations in protein coding genes that may be responsible for a particular condition.
3. RNA sequencing : It is a technique that allows scientists to study the expression of genes in a particular tissue or cell type. It involves sequencing the RNA molecules that are produced when genes are transcribed into protein . RNA sequencing can be used to study gene expression patterns in different tissues and under different conditions , and can help researchers to understand the role of specific genes in development and disease.

IN INDIA

Genome sequencing has made significant progress in India in recent years. There are a number of research institutions and organizations in India that are involved in genome sequencing and related research.

One of the major initiatives in genome sequencing in India is national human genome project( NHGP) which was launched in 2001 by the department of biotechnology (DBT). The NHGP aims to understand the genetic basis of various diseases , as well as to develop diagnostic and therapeutic approaches based on knowledge. The DBT has also established the National Centre for Human Genome studies and Research ( NCHGSR), which coordinates the NGP and conducts researches on the genetic basis of diseases.

Other organisations include :

• Council of Scientific and Industrial Research ( CSIR).
• The Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
• The Indian of Technology (IIT) 

There are also a number of private companies in India that are involved in genome sequencing and related research , including Genotype Technology and Map my genome.

APPLICATIONS

• Understanding the genetic basis of disease : By identifying the specific genetic changes that underline a particular disease, genome sequencing can help researches to understand the causes of the disease  and to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
• Developing personalized medicine : Genome sequencing can be used to identify the specific genetic changes that contribute to an individual's risk of developing a particular disease . This information can be used to develop personalized treatment plans that are tailored to the individual's specific genetic profile.
• For identifying genetic risk factors for diseases
• For understanding the evolutionary relationship between different species.
• For developing new drugs and therapies.
• For studying gene expression
• For identifying genetic markers for agricultural crops.
• To understand Micro biome.

CHALLENGES

• High cost
• Difficulty in data management.
• Data interpretation issues
• Issues related to Ethics and Privacy
• Limited understanding
• Limited availability

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