Aims & Objectives of Genome Foundation

The objectives of the Foundation as detailed below will be undertaken in two Phases.

Objectives: Phase -I

Molecular diagnosis, carrier analysis, prenatal diagnosis and genetic counseling for various genetic disorders such as

Hemoglobinopathies including Thalassemias, Sickle Cell Anemia, Hemoglobin E disease

Musculopathies including Duchenne & Becker Muscular Dystrophy, Spinal Muscular Atrophy, etc

Neurodegenerative diseases like Spinocerebellar Ataxias, Huntington’s disease

Mental retardation syndromes like Fragile-X Syndrome

Bleeding disorders like Hemophilia A and B; and

Mitochondrial disorders

Molecular diagnostic services

For infectious diseases to know the diagnosis, and planning therapeutic strategies; and

For predisposition, early detection and treatment of cancer.


Chromosomal analysis for various genetic disorders such as
Dysmorphic features/Congenital malformations
Delayed developmental milestones/growth retardation
Mental retardation
Recurrent abortions
Contiguous gene syndromes like Prader-Willi Angelman Syndrome, DiGeorge Syndrome
Hematological malignancies and solid tumours; and
Male and female sterility.


DNA profiling and related services

	For civil and forensic purposes such as paternity disputes, immigration matters, mass disaster, including wildlife; and
	For authentication of plants, seeds, screening of various diseases


Objectives: Phase-II
Research and Development
Develop new markers and protocols for rapid and efficient screening of various diseases
Design and develop modules for gene therapy of various genetic disorders and generate various organs using stem cell technology for cell and tissue therapy (regenerative medicine)
Promote and assist research and development activities in related areas; and
Transfer technology developed by leading R&D institutions, such as the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), for the benefit and welfare of the people.

Training
To conduct medical education programmes to update knowledge of clinicians
To conduct intensive courses in medical genetics, and other related specialities; and
To impart training in genetic diagnosis, DNA profiling and Bioinformatics.

Mass Education
To create public awareness about genetic disorders, cancer and infectious diseases, their prevention and control; and
To create awareness about the toxic effects of environmental pollution on the genome and health of the people

Networking
To ascertain true prevalence of genetic disorders throughout the country
To set up resource centers throughout India for providing prophylactic, diagnostic and therapeutic services to the people including from rural areas
To collaborate with leading R&D institutions/hospitals in the areas in India and abroad; and
To serve as a knowledge base to assist in promoting and setting up of biotech industries.