The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) intends to conduct genome sequencing for nearly 1000 rural Indian youths. This research aims to identify unique genetic traits and the susceptibility or resilience to diseases within this demographic. This first-time initiative in India is set to involve a diverse representation of the country’s youth, largely comprising college students pursuing life sciences or biology degrees. This project forms part of a more grand governmental endeavour still underway to sequence at least 10,000 Indian genomes.
Understanding Genome Sequencing
Genome sequencing involves determining the sequence of DNA nucleotides or bases within a genome. This process maps the order of Adenine, Cytosine, Guanine, and Thymine, which form an organism’s DNA.
The human genome consists of 23 chromosome pairs, totalling roughly 3 billion DNA base pairs. These include 22 autosomal chromosomes and the sex-determining X and Y chromosomes. Chromosomes 1-22 are arranged approximately in descending size order. Typical somatic cells incorporate one copy of chromosomes 1-22 from each parent, an X chromosome from the mother, and either an X or Y chromosome from the father, resulting in 46 chromosomes in total. The estimated number of human protein-coding genes ranges from 20,000 to 25,000. However, these initial predictions have been revised downwards as genome sequencing technologies and gene detection methods have improved.
The Importance of Genome Sequencing
Sequencing the genome serves as a valuable tool for scientists aiming to understand it more comprehensively. By studying the whole genome sequence, they can uncover how genes collectively guide the growth, development, and maintenance of an entire organism. A genome sequence also holds hints about gene locations that are gradually decoded by scientists.
Moreover, the genome is made of more than just genes — less than 25% of DNA in the genome. Therefore, having the entire genome sequence helps scientists study other parts of the genome, including regulatory regions controlling gene activation and deactivation, as well as long stretches of nonsensical or “junk” DNA.
Human Genome Project
The Human Genome Project was an international research initiative to determine the human genome sequence and identify the genes it contains. This 13-year-long, publicly-funded project launched in 1990 under the coordination of the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Department of Energy. Its objective was to determine the DNA sequence of the entire euchromatic human genome within 15 years.
| Human Genome Project Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 13 years (1990-2003) |
| Objective | Determine the DNA sequence of the entire euchromatic human genome |
| Outcome | Significant advances in the types of technology used to sequence DNA |
Impact of the Human Genome Project
The Human Genome Project has undoubtedly had far-reaching impacts, ushering in a new era in medicine and greatly advancing DNA sequencing technology. Its success has paved the way towards personalized medicine, enabling the use of genetic information, including nucleotide sequences, to enhance and improve drug safety. Examples include the development of tailored responses to breast cancer treatment and antidepressants.
