Gujarat has become the first Indian State to launch genome sequencing initiative focused exclusively on tribal communities.
The initiative will sequence the genomes of 2,000 individuals from the tribal communities across 17 districts in the State.
The project, titled “Creation of Reference Genome Database for Tribal Population in Gujarat”, is being implemented by the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC).
The initiative will focus on the early detection and targeted treatment of genetic disorders such as sickle cell anaemia, thalassaemia, and certain hereditary cancers.
The genetic data collected will also be used to identify markers related to natural immunity and support the development of personalised healthcare solutions.