India Launches First Multi-Omics Data Portal to Enhance Cancer Research and Treatment
The Indian Cancer Genome Atlas (ICGA) has launched India’s first comprehensive multi-omics data portal aimed at advancing cancer research and treatment, addressing a disease that affects millions globally.
This new platform provides open access to clinically correlated data from Indian cancer patients, with the goal of transforming research and treatment tailored to Indian populations. Traditionally, cancer treatments in India have relied on Western data sets, but the molecular characteristics of cancers in Indian patients can differ significantly.
The open-access portal marks a significant advancement in revolutionizing cancer research and facilitating personalized treatment for Indian patients. “The multi-omics portal is the first of its kind in India, offering DNA, RNA, and protein profiles of breast cancer patients, integrated with clinical outcomes,” stated the non-profit organization.
Currently, the platform features data from 50 breast cancer patients, with plans to expand to over 500 patients within the next year. This data is freely accessible to the global research community, following India’s PRIDE guidelines that encourage ethical sharing and collaboration in cancer research.
Built on the internationally recognized cBioPortal platform, the portal ensures smooth integration with global cancer research initiatives.
Dr. Anand Deshpande, Non-Executive Director at ICGA, expressed optimism about the launch: “This groundbreaking multi-omics cancer portal is a crucial step forward. Cancer affects us all, and there is an urgent need for more effective, personalized treatments tailored to the unique genetic and environmental factors in India.”
He added, “This portal will provide researchers with vital data to enhance customized cancer research and improve treatment outcomes. I urge everyone to contribute and support this essential initiative to accelerate our progress in the fight against cancer.”
A recent report from Apollo Hospitals highlighted India as the “cancer capital of the world,” with approximately 1.2 million new cancer cases and 930,000 deaths reported in 2019. According to Lancet, India is the second highest contributor to the disease burden in Asia, with new cases rising to 1.39 million in 2020 and further increasing to 1.42 million and 1.46 million in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Factors such as aging, pollution, poor diet, and unhealthy lifestyles are expected to lead to a significant rise in these numbers.
