Why in news
In recent Nipah case, Samples sent to both NIV Pune and Kerala’s Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV) in Thiruvananthapuram.
IAV tested samples in four hours and reported results to the health department by 9 am.
Kerala waited for NIV Pune's confirmation before making an official announcement
Benefits of Decentralized Testing
Enables quick response to emerging pathogens, reducing delays seen with centralised testing at NIV Pune.
Example: Gujarat sent samples to the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre for quicker results amid an acute encephalitis outbreak.
Genome Sequencing by IAV
IAV conducted partial sequencing of the Nipah virus genome for the first time.
Sequenced F and G protein-coding regions showed complete conservation with previously reported strains.
Plans to undertake whole genome sequencing and make the data publicly accessible.
Importance of Genome Sequence Data
Necessary for building diagnostics and understanding pathogen evolution.
Delays in releasing genome data impact public health response and genetic epidemiology.
Previous delays noted with Zika virus genome data from Kerala in 2021.
What is genome sequencing
Genome sequencing is the process of figuring out the order of DNA nucleotides, or bases, in a genome
It helps identify the exact sequence of bases in the DNA, providing a comprehensive map of the genetic material.
Applications:
Understanding genetic disorders, Identifying mutations related to diseases, Tracing the origin and spread of pathogens, Personalized medicine (tailoring treatments based on genetic information).
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