BHU Pioneers North India's First Human DNA Bank: A Milestone in Genomic Advancements
In a groundbreaking development, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) is set to establish North India's first human DNA bank, marking a significant stride in the field of genomics. The inauguration of the Automated DNA Extractor Machine at the Dnyaneshwar Lab of the Zoology Department on January 30, 2024, signifies a momentous occasion for scientific research and personalized medicine.
 |
| North India's first human DNA bank will be established in BHU. |
Indigenous Technology for Sustainable Impact
The Automated DNA Extractor Machine, a product of the Make in India initiative, is a testament to indigenous technological prowess. Crafted with an emphasis on sustainability, the machine minimizes plastic usage, aligning with environmental conservation efforts.
Capable of extracting DNA from diverse biological substances such as blood, saliva, hair, or tissue, this innovative machine facilitates the isolation of DNA from approximately 32 samples in just 30 minutes. This efficiency opens doors to a multitude of applications, from medical research to forensic investigations.
Genesis of the Human DNA Bank
The vision for the Human DNA Bank at BHU took shape following a three-day conference on personalized medicine in March 2023. Organized by the Zoology Department at BHU in collaboration with the Adnet Society, Hyderabad, the conference witnessed the participation of 21 renowned scientists from 15 countries.
Inspired by the conference, the decision to establish a Human DNA Bank at BHU was made, paving the way for advancements akin to Estonia's genome bank. Estonia's pioneering efforts in creating a genome bank, where samples and data from 20 percent of the population are available, served as a model for BHU's ambitious project.
Unveiling the Potential of Human DNA Bank
Medical Insights and Disease Prediction
The Human DNA Bank at BHU holds immense promise for healthcare and medical research. By providing instant access to the medical history of individuals, doctors can make informed decisions with a single click. This is particularly crucial during marriage, offering warnings about potential genetic diseases that may manifest in future generations.
Database Collection and Criminal Identification
The primary objective is to collect approximately 50,000 samples from diverse castes and tribes, a process anticipated to span at least five years. Subsequently, DNA data will be compiled from these samples, facilitating the identification of individuals in specific cases. The database derived from the Human Genome Project will aid in apprehending suspected criminals based on their DNA.
Advances in Genomic Research
Genome sequencing has already identified genes associated with thirty diseases, including Tar-Sachs syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and Harrington's disease. The Human DNA Bank will play a pivotal role in pre-assessing genetic diseases, conducting disease screenings, and exploring gene therapy and drug control methods.
Beyond Human DNA: Wildlife Conservation Efforts
The initiative extends beyond human genomics. Scientists from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, are nearing completion of the first DNA bank for wildlife in North India. This repository will house DNA samples from all wild animals, contributing significantly to the conservation of endangered species.
As BHU paves the way for cutting-edge genomic research and technological innovation, the establishment of the Human DNA Bank emerges as a beacon of progress, promising a future where genetic information becomes a powerful tool for healthcare, criminal justice, and wildlife conservation.
