Gen next sequencing system puts Mysore on national map

Samples from across India can be tested here

The City of Palaces Mysore on Friday added yet another feather to its cap in the next generation sequencing system (whole genome sequence – Ion Torrent Personal Genome Machine) at Southern Regional Centre of the Anthropological Survey of India.

 The system would help understand genetic mutations, and linkages, and establish the migration route of vulnerable tribal groups and others. Besides, it promises minimal labour, and checks the possibility of human errors.

Secretary to the Union Ministry of Culture Ravindra Singh who dedicated the facility, told the media the system would enhance the capacity of Mysore centre, besides catapulting the wide vista of knowledge in the Anthropological studies. More samples from across the country would be brought to Mysore centre for sequencing. 

G S Rautela, Director General, National Council of Science and Museum, also the Director, Anthropological Survey of India, Kolkata, said that an Ancient Molecular Lab was being set up in Kolkata, with the Ministry of Culture releasing Rs 70 crore for the same.

The intended lab would take up the study of 32 series of skeletal remains dating back to 800 BC to 200 BC to dissect the history of humans. Creating the indigenous facility was inevitable, as the law doesn't permit transfer of skeletons outside the country. 

The study would also throw light on Indus Valley civilisation, its origin, and the diseases contracted by the race. That apart, the study will also help find solutions to the genetic disorders and diseases that lacked treatment . 

ASI, Mysore centre is already carrying out research on DNA polymorphism studies in contemporary Indian populations to trace the migration routes of the people of India, Single Nucleotide

Polymorphism studies affecting breast cancer, CVD, TD2 (family studies), health in high risk sickle cell zones, obesity under the project Community Genetics and Health.

The fifth national advisory committee meeting of ASI was also held at Mysore centre and attended by a team of 20 experts who included the heads of departments of Anthropology across the country and various government organisations like Planning Commission among others.