IIT-Madras launches a cancer genome and tissue bank
India is witnessing a bold step forward in cancer research as the Indian Institute of Technology Madras announces a cancer genome and tissue bank designed to power personalized therapy. The initiative, supported by the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas, aims to translate genomic insights into precise, affordable care for Indian patients.
A national resource for precision oncology
At the heart of the program is the National Cancer Tissue Biobank, which targets the collection of about 7000 tumor samples from cancer patients across the country. Scientists at IIT-Madras culture these tumor cells in the lab to test a range of therapies. The goal is to determine the most effective treatment plan for each patient before administering therapy in the clinic, thereby reducing trial-and-error and minimizing side effects.
Indian-specific genetic insights
One notable early finding is a breast cancer mutation that appears more frequently in Indian patients than in Western populations. This discovery underscores the limitations of relying solely on Western genetic data for developing treatments and highlights the need for India-centric studies to guide precision medicine tailored to Indian patients.
Pancreatic cancer and early detection
Beyond breast cancer, researchers are developing genetic panels for pancreatic cancer and pursuing blood-based markers for early detection. Detecting pancreatic cancer early remains a major clinical challenge, and the team hopes these markers will improve survival by enabling timely intervention when disease is more amenable to treatment.
BCGA and open data to accelerate care
The Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas adds a valuable resource for researchers, including genomic information from hundreds of Indian patients. The BCGA database currently catalogs data from 480 Indian breast cancer patients, and the effort is open access to clinicians and scientists nationwide. This transparency is expected to accelerate the development of targeted diagnostics and therapies specific to Indian patients and to foster collaboration across institutions.
Towards affordable, tailored cancer care
By integrating globally generated data with Indian-specific findings, IIT-Madras aims to move precision medicine from a research concept to routine clinical practice. The collaboration with healthcare facilities and industry partners is intended to make genomics-guided therapy more affordable and accessible, reducing the financial and logistical barriers that can hinder patient outcomes.
Looking ahead
As data accumulate and analytic methods advance, India could see a shift toward routine genomic profiling, early detection markers, and individualized treatment regimens. The project holds the promise of improving survival, reducing unnecessary toxicity, and lifting the overall standard of cancer care for millions of Indian patients.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to precision medicine in India, supported by government grants and partnerships with hospitals and clinics. As researchers translate insights from the tissue bank into clinical protocols, patients stand to benefit from smarter, safer, and more personalized cancer care.
