The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras launched the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas on Monday to enhance research and personalize treatment for cancer patients in India and globally. The cancer genome program, initiated by IIT Madras in 2020, has completed whole exome sequencing of 480 breast cancer patient tissue samples across the country.
The institute has made this valuable database publicly accessible at bcga.iitm.ac.in for researchers and clinicians in India and abroad. According to Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, "This cancer-related data will provide deep insights into the reasons behind this deadly disease and aid in early interventions to prevent it. The Atlas addresses the gap in the genomic landscape of various cancers in the country."
Prof. Kamakoti also announced the successful generation of the Indian breast cancer genome sequence. This compendium of genetic variants from the contemporary Indian breast cancer population will help in early diagnostics, disease progression, and treatment outcomes.
In collaboration with Karkinos Healthcare, Mumbai, the Chennai Breast Clinic, and Cancer Research and Relief Trust, Chennai, IIT Madras analyzed the data and compiled an anonymized summary of genetic variants from Indian breast cancer samples. The National Cancer Registry Programme in India reported an alarming increase in cancer incidence, with one in nine individuals likely to develop cancer in their lifetime.
Despite the high cancer incidence rate, India has been under-represented in global cancer genome studies. The new database will serve as a valuable resource for identifying cancer-specific biomarkers, enabling early detection of breast cancer and identifying novel drug targets tailored to the Indian population.
Prof. S. Mahalingam, the Project Coordinator and Head of the Centre of Excellence on Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics at IIT Madras, emphasized the importance of this data in identifying high-risk groups, monitoring cancer progression, designing personalized treatment strategies, and understanding treatment outcomes.
The Genome Atlas not only sheds light on the genetic basis of cancer progression and evolution but also paves the way for personalized medicine in India. By incorporating individuals' genetic and molecular information into clinical decision-making, the healthcare system can improve medical care standards.
(With inputs from IANS)
