Genomic technologies have witnessed rapid advancement over the past few years. This has not only enabled doctors to understand the biology of diseases better, but also reduce the cost of nucleotide sequencing significantly.
Aster Medcity, Kochi and Aster MIMS, Calicut, in association with the CSIR Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR IGIB), New Delhi – India’s premier genomics research institute, Society for Advancements in Genomics, Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research (SAGReMS - India) and Cochin Oncology Group (COG), conducted a one day CME - workshop ‘Genomics In Clinical Medicine’ at Aster Medcity on 20 January 2019.
The CME – workshop featured in-depth discussions on clinical applications of genomics in diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases. One of the main topics was the ‘GUARDIAN Programme’ -the network of clinicians and researchers in India who are working on the subject of ‘rare genetic diseases, spearheaded by the CSIR IGIB. Recent advancements in molecular diagnostics and treatment of genetic diseases using genome editing tools like CRISPR-Cas9 and TALENS (presently being explored at CSIR IGIB) were also discussed.
Dr Harish Pillai, CEO - Aster Hospitals and Clinics - India, spoke about how collaborative medicine forms the basis of modern healthcare and the role of genomics in managing genetic diseases in Kerala. Speakers at the event included Dr. Sridhar Sivasubbu, Dr. Vinod Scaria, Dr. Binukumar BK and Dr Sivaprakash Ramalingam from CSIR IGIB and Dr. Atul Thatai from Dr. Lal Pathlabs.
