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Indian Cancer Genome Atlas (ICGA) Repository
Context:
The Indian Cancer Genome Atlas (ICGA) Foundation launched India’s first comprehensive cancer genomics repository, designed to improve understanding of cancer genetic variations in the Indian population.
- Purpose: The platform provides critical data on DNA, RNA, and protein profiles of breast cancer patients, integrated with clinical outcomes, aiding researchers and clinicians in developing personalised treatments for Indian cancer patients.
- Significance: Historically, cancer treatments in India were based on Western datasets. ICGA aims to bridge this gap by providing India-specific data, ensuring better diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for Indian patients.
- Data: The current dataset contains profiles from 50 breast cancer patients, with plans to expand to 500 patients within the year.
- Collaboration: The ICGA promotes ethical sharing and collaboration by offering free access to global researchers, fostering innovation in cancer treatment.
Inspiration from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas):
- TCGA Overview: Launched in 2006 by the National Cancer Institute and the National Human Genome Research Institute in the U.S., TCGA is a pioneering cancer-genomics project that molecularly characterised over 20,000 primary cancer samples across 33 cancer types.
- Impact of TCGA: TCGA has generated more than 2.5 petabytes of data, offering insights into cancer mutations and improving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Its open-data model inspired ICGA’s collaborative approach.
Importance of ICGA in Indian Context:
- Western vs. Indian Data: Indian cancers differ molecularly from Western cancers, making it essential to develop region-specific datasets. ICGA helps meet this need, filling the gap in data-driven cancer treatments for Indian patients.
- Multi-Omics Data: ICGA offers multi-omics data, which includes genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic profiles, enabling comprehensive analysis of cancer biology at multiple levels.
What is an Atlas in Cancer Genomics?
- Definition: In cancer genomics, an “Atlas” is a comprehensive database mapping out genomic alterations, mutations, and molecular processes underlying various cancer types.
- Examples: ICGA and TCGA are examples of such atlases, compiling vast datasets that support research on cross-cancer patterns, genetic mutations, and oncogenic processes. These atlases help researchers develop targeted therapies.
Multi-Omics Approach in ICGA:
- Definition: Multi-Omics refers to the integration of various “omics” fields (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, etc.), allowing researchers to analyse multiple levels of biological data simultaneously.
Omics Datasets and Integration:
- Omics Datasets: Collections that characterise specific biological features, like genes or proteins, linking them to disease pathways and therapeutic targets.
- Multi-Omics Strategy: Combining various omics data (e.g., genomics + proteomics) offers a holistic view of disease mechanisms, identifying biomarkers and pathways for cancer diagnostics and treatment.
Future Prospects:
- Expansion: The ICGA plans to include data from over 500 breast cancer patients, expanding to other cancer types in the future.
- Publications: ICGA expects independent researchers to publish insights using the shared data, contributing to cancer research and innovations in treatment strategies.
