India’s Biotech Department to Study Covid Samples for Future Pandemic Preparedness

The Department of Biotechnology in India is set to conduct a large-scale analysis of thousands of samples and clinical data collected during the Covid-19 pandemic. This study, managed by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), aims to help scientists understand why some people are more susceptible to infections and how infections alter metabolic activities. These insights are expected to strengthen India’s response to future pandemics.

Focus Areas of Research

The research will examine various factors:

• The immunological basis for individual susceptibility to infections.
• Viral evolution and changes in the virus that affected metabolism in infected individuals.
• Long Covid symptoms, reported in 10-20% of cases, including fatigue and cognitive dysfunction.

INSACOG’s Role and Achievements

Since its formation in December 2020, INSACOG, a group of 54 laboratories, has sequenced around 330,000 SARS-CoV-2 genomes, tracking variants of concern. This network established early detection mechanisms for genomic variants, especially during events with potential super-spreader risks.

Looking Forward: Collaborative Efforts

The Department of Biotechnology is collaborating with scientists who collected data during the pandemic. The goal is to make the most out of the data gathered, in line with retrospective studies already underway in other countries. By repurposing samples, India aims to use its INSACOG network for broader research activities, ensuring preparedness for possible future pandemics.

Queries to the Department of Biotechnology and the Ministry of Health for further details on the project were not yet answered.

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SUMMARY

The Department of Biotechnology in India is planning to analyze a large number of Covid-19 samples collected during the pandemic to help understand individual susceptibility and metabolic changes due to the virus. This study, conducted by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), will look into immune responses, viral evolution, and long Covid symptoms. INSACOG, which has sequenced over 330,000 SARS-CoV-2 genomes since 2020, aims to use this data for future pandemic preparedness by studying how infections impact health over time. Collaborations are underway within the scientific community to maximize the data's potential in advancing medical responses for upcoming health crises.