The importance of sharing genome sequences has been highlighted in recent news as India submitted nine whole genome sequences of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID). Additionally, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) gave the green light to all national research laboratories to conduct testing for the virus.
What is GISAID?
GISAID is a public platform devised in 2008 by the World Health Organization (WHO). It encourages countries to share genetic sequences of viruses. This initiative fosters international distribution of all influenza virus sequences, related clinical and epidemiological data, as well as geographical and species-specific data tied to avian and other animal viruses.
By equipping researchers with such a wealth of information, they are better able to understand virus evolution, spread, and potential pandemic threat. GISAID actively facilitates the development of new research tools to efficiently analyze influenza data.
Key Points on Virus Sequence Sharing
As of now, 3,086 sequences of the virus taken from human patients have been shared by 57 countries. The United States tops the list with having shared 621 sequences, followed by the United Kingdom (350), Belgium (253), and China (242).
Researchers found that a spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, also labeled as 2019-nCoV, lets the virus invade and infect human cells. Sequencing the genome of SARS-CoV-2 aids scientific understanding of the virus’s origin, whether different strains are circulating in India, and how the virus spreads.
Understanding Genome Sequencing
Genome sequencing involves mapping out the order of Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) nucleotides, or bases, in a genome. These include Adenine, Cytosine, Guanines, and Thymine that constitute an organism’s DNA.
On April 2, 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) authorized all national research laboratories, including those under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), to conduct testing for the novel coronavirus.
Role of CSIR Laboratories
Both the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB, Telangana) and the Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB, New Delhi) have commenced sequencing the virus using Biosafety Level (BSL)-2 and BSL-3 labs. While the virus is isolated and deactivated in the BSL-3 facility, sequencing takes place in the BSL-2 environment.
In addition to sequencing, laboratories will also culture the virus, a process that involves cell maintenance and growth in specially designed containers under precise conditions. This approach aids in studying the virus and helps when testing vaccines and drugs.
Biosafety Levels Explained
Biosafety levels are used to denote the necessary precautions needed in a laboratory to safeguard workers, the environment, and the public. Labs implement one of the four biosafety levels – BSL-1, BSL-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 – depending upon the nature of activities and projects undertaken, with BSL-4 offering the highest containment level.
About CSIR and ICMR
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) was set up by the Government of India in September 1942 as an autonomous body. Known for its cutting-edge R&D knowledge base in diverse S&T areas, CSIR has been ranked first in the Nature Ranking Index-2020.
On the other hand, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is India’s top body for biomedical research formulation, coordination, and promotion. Its mandate includes conducting and implementing medical research for societal benefits, translating medical innovations into products/processes, and introducing them into the public health system. It is funded by the Indian Government through the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
Last Modified: February 7, 2024