Synopsis
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras launched the Bharat cancer genome atlas to enhance research and tailor cancer treatments, providing a vital resource for both local and international researchers.Key Takeaways
- Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas aims to personalize cancer treatment.
- The project started in 2020 and includes 960 whole exome sequencings.
- The database is accessible to researchers globally at bcga.iitm.ac.in.
- Prof. V. Kamakoti emphasizes its importance in understanding cancer.
- Data will help identify biomarkers for early detection and treatment.
Chennai, Feb 3 (NationPress) The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has officially unveiled the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas to advance research and tailor treatments for the lethal disease both in India and globally.
Initiated in 2020, the cancer genome program undertaken by IIT Madras has successfully completed the whole exome sequencing of 960 samples from 480 breast cancer patients across the nation.
This comprehensive database is now publicly accessible at bcga.iitm.ac.in for researchers and clinicians in India and beyond. “We anticipate that this cancer-related data will yield profound insights into the factors contributing to this deadly disease and aid in prevention through early interventions. The Atlas addresses the gap in the genomic landscape of various cancers prevalent in the country,” stated Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras.
Prof. Kamakoti further announced the successful completion of the Indian breast cancer genome sequence.
“This resource offers a comprehensive collection of genetic variants that represent the current Indian breast cancer population, facilitating the classification of variants linked to early diagnostics, disease progression, and treatment outcomes,” he noted.
In collaboration with Karkinos Healthcare in Mumbai, the Chennai Breast Clinic, and the Cancer Research and Relief Trust in Chennai, IIT Madras analyzed the data and compiled an anonymized summary of genetic variants drawn from Indian breast cancer samples.
Cancer ranks among the most lethal health concerns globally and within India, with a recent study by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) indicating a steady rise in the number of individuals afflicted by this grave disease.
The National Cancer Registry Programme reported that one in nine individuals in India is likely to develop cancer during their lifetime, with 1,461,427 individuals currently living with cancer.
Since 2022, there has been a 12.8% annual increase in cancer incidence. Despite the high prevalence of cancer, India has been underrepresented in global cancer genome studies.
Due to the lack of genomic data regarding prevalent cancers in India, specific genetic variants associated with Indian cancers have been inadequately documented for diagnostic kit development and drug discovery.
“The new database will serve as a crucial tool in identifying cancer-specific biomarkers in India, enabling early breast cancer detection. Additionally, it will aid in pinpointing novel drug targets for developing enhanced treatment strategies tailored to the Indian populace,” remarked Prof. S. Mahalingam, Project Coordinator and Head of the Centre of Excellence on Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics at IIT Madras.
“The data will be instrumental in identifying biomarkers for high-risk groups, monitoring cancer progression, devising strategies for personalized treatment, and comprehending treatment outcomes,” he added.
The Genome Atlas also offers insights into the genetic foundations of cancer progression and evolution, potentially steering the biomedical research and healthcare system in India toward a vision of personalized medicine, which may enhance the quality of medical care by integrating individual genetic and molecular data into clinical decision-making.
