RGCB to be national metagenomics project hub
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) was selected as one of four national next-generation sequencing (NGS) hubs for the Metagenomic Syndromic Surveillance Programme under the National ‘One Health Mission’.
Background
The RGCB will use high-throughput sequencing and viral genomics expertise to analyze thousands of samples from national surveillance sites. The program targets undiagnosed acute febrile illness, encephalitis, diarrhoeal diseases, and respiratory infections to identify known, rare, and novel pathogens.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyRajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) is a national hub for next-generation sequencing (NGS).
- SchemeMetagenomic Syndromic Surveillance Programme is part of the National ‘One Health Mission’ initiative.
- S&TNext-generation sequencing (NGS) is used to generate real-time genomic pictures of circulating pathogens and antimicrobial resistance patterns.
- FactThe program aims to detect known, rare, and novel pathogens causing acute febrile illness, encephalitis, and respiratory infections.
For Mains
Q. Discuss how metagenomic surveillance and the 'One Health' approach can strengthen India's early warning systems against emerging zoonotic and infectious diseases.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Diagnostic bottleneck: Addressing the gap in identifying rare and novel pathogens in rural surveillance sites
- Data integration: Real-time genomic mapping to track antimicrobial resistance patterns across different geographical regions
Keywords: Metagenomics · One Health Mission · Next-generation sequencing · Pathogen surveillance · Antimicrobial resistance
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