India has observed a massive leap in the field of genomics in public healthcare by taking its first step in sequencing the indigenous healthy genomes (CSIR’s-IndiGen). The program boosts our ability to understand (i) our population diversity, (ii) population-specific disease risk gene variants, (iii) rare genetic disorders and in terms to solve the unsolved cases, (iv) identify hereditary genetic disorders and counsel expectant parents about the disease risk in the foetus. The reduction in costs of whole-genome sequencing has made it affordable for patients. However, these technologies are still far from reaching the general public. While research and discoveries are developing, numerous patients are still waiting for a cure.
In an attempt to facilitate access to these technologies and develop treatments for patients, CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB) has collaborated with multiple industrial partners. On those lines, the 'CSIR-IGIB Sanofi Genzyme fellowship in genomics for medical professionals' aims to introduce the fundamental aspects of genomics and molecular medicine to clinicians. This programme is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Sanofi Genzyme for 8 clinicians per year.
The fellowship programme includes a short-term (up to 14 days) visit of the clinicians to CSIR-IGIB in Delhi, where they would get an introduction to genomic approaches, interaction and hands-on training on specific aspects of genomics and interpretation of genomic data. It aims to bridge the gap between on-going research and clinics. To ensure that most patients from across the nation get benefitted, medical professionals from different parts of the country are enrolled and trained with the latest genomic research. In turn, it facilitates speedy delivery of the latest technologies to patients aiding in better and efficient diagnosis and treatment.
More about the programme can be found at http://is.gd/fig2019