-By ArdorComm News Network
February 4, 2025
IIT Madras has announced the release of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA), a comprehensive database aimed at bridging the genomic gap in cancer studies. The initiative focuses on improving early detection, treatment strategies, and drug development for Indian breast cancer patients.
The project, undertaken in collaboration with Karkinos Healthcare, Chennai Breast Clinic, and Cancer Research and Relief Trust, has successfully sequenced 960 whole exomes from 480 breast cancer patient tissue samples collected from across the country. The resulting database is now publicly accessible to researchers and clinicians at bcga.iitm.ac.in.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
- Rising Cancer Burden: According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), one in nine Indians is likely to develop cancer in their lifetime, with a 12.8 percent annual increase in cases since 2022.
- Lack of Representation in Global Research: India has historically been underrepresented in global cancer genome studies, making it difficult for diagnostic tools and treatments to be tailored to Indian patients.
- First-of-its-Kind Indian Breast Cancer Genome Database: The BCGA provides a crucial repository of genetic variants specific to Indian breast cancer cases, addressing a long-standing gap in cancer genomics.
Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, stated that the initiative aligns with the institution’s commitment to societal impact.
“By releasing this data, we hope to provide critical insights into the genetic factors contributing to cancer, enabling early intervention and more effective treatments. This dataset fills a major gap in India’s genomic research and offers new possibilities for precision medicine.”
How BCGA Will Contribute to Cancer Research and Treatment
- Early Detection: Identification of cancer-specific biomarkers to improve early diagnosis.
- Personalized Medicine: Facilitating treatments tailored to genetic and molecular profiles.
- Improved Treatment Strategies: Enabling the development of novel drug targets.
- Collaborative Research: Providing an open-access platform for researchers to contribute and analyze data.
The project was led by the Centre of Excellence on Cancer Genomics and Molecular Therapeutics at IIT Madras, under the Government of India’s ‘Institutions of Eminence’ initiative. The research was also supported by the Department of Science and Technology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.
Prof. S. Mahalingam, Project Coordinator, emphasized the significance of BCGA, stating:
“This database will be an invaluable resource for identifying high-risk groups, monitoring cancer progression, and advancing precision oncology in India. It will also serve as a foundation for developing better treatment strategies specific to the Indian population.”
The BCGA is part of a broader effort under the National Center for Precision Medicine in Cancer, a joint initiative between IIT Madras and Karkinos Healthcare aimed at fostering interdisciplinary research for affordable cancer care solutions.
With World Cancer Day being observed on February 4, 2025, the release of the BCGA marks a major milestone in India’s cancer research landscape, reinforcing the country’s commitment to advancing precision medicine and improving patient outcomes.
Source: iitm. ac