NGS Boosts Oral Cancer Insights in India

Population genomics to Boosts Oral Cancer Insights in India

Introduction

The use of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) in India has rapidly accelerated breakthroughs in oral cancer research. Oral cancer remains one of the most prevalent cancers among Indian males, prompting experts like Prof. Partha Majumder to leverage cutting-edge genomic techniques for deeper insights. By integrating NGS and advanced analytics in his wet-lab, , and creating international collaborations, Prof. Majumder’s team is uncovering critical driver genes that can transform disease outcomes and pave the way for targeted therapies.

“Everybody is now realizing that genomics is the future for preventing and treating diseases.”
— Prof. Partha Majumder

From Statistics to Biomedical Genomics

Initially trained in statistics, Prof. Majumder recognized the potential of genomics for tackling complex diseases. His transition to population genetics and the establishment of a wet lab at the Indian Statistical Institute enabled him to generate robust genetic data in-house. This foundational work set the stage for pioneering cancer research:

• Advanced Data Analysis: Statistical rigor in large-scale genomic studies ensures accurate identification of disease-related mutations.

• Focus on Oral Cancer: Guided by epidemiological evidence, Prof. Majumder and collaborators concentrated on the leading cancer among Indian males.

The International Cancer Genome Consortium

Prof. Majumder’s involvement in the gave Indian researchers a foothold in global genomic investigations. Under this banner:

• NGS Technologies: India gained the necessary tools to catalog somatic mutations—a task previously difficult due to limited sequencing capabilities.

• Collaborative Efforts: Researchers pooled insights on oral cancer progression, identifying patterns and pathways unique to the Indian population.

“One innovation was to introduce Next Generation Technologies in India and it wasn’t easy to catalog somatic mutations without them.”
— Prof. Partha Majumder

Innovative Genomics Study Designs

A hallmark of Prof. Majumder’s work is the sequential analysis of normal, pre-cancerous (leukoplakia), and tumor tissues from the same patient. This approach helps elucidate how specific mutations accumulate and trigger malignant transformation:

• Driver Genes: The research identified ~10 genes that can transform normal tissue into tumor tissue.

• Caspase 8: Variations in this gene predispose leukoplakia tissue to progress into oral cancer, spotlighting a potential marker for early detection and intervention.

Impact of Population Genomics Studie on Detection and Therapy

Although these findings have yet to produce immediate therapeutic solutions, they set the stage for personalized medicine in oral cancer:

1. Gene Panels sequencing: Targeted screening for high-risk patients could enable earlier interventions.

2. Risk Prediction: Tracking known driver genes may forecast an individual’s likelihood of developing oral cancer.

3. Spatial Genomics: Techniques like “stereo-seq” in liver cancer suggest future applicability in oral cancer for mapping tumor heterogeneity.

“We are hopeful that, since we identified early variations in specific genes, these can be sequenced to predict whether an individual is going to get oral cancer.”
— Prof. Partha Majumder

Evaluating MGI DNBSEQ sequencing Technologies

Prof. Majumder has commended noting their comprehensive design suitable for varied disease and population research. As cost-efficient solutions become more prevalent, the routine use of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) will likely rise across India.

Conclusion

Prof. Partha Majumder’s work exemplifies how NGS can transform oral cancer research. By bridging cutting-edge laboratory technologies and innovative study designs, his team is moving closer to the ultimate goals of early detection, personalized therapy, and prevention. These advancements attest to India’s growing prominence in global genomics, showcasing the potential to not only improve outcomes for oral cancer patients but also drive broader medical innovations across the country.

References

• International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC)
  https://icgc.org/

• Indian Statistical Institute
  https://www.isical.ac.in/

• National Cancer Institute: Oral Cancer Treatment
  https://www.cancer.gov/types/head-and-neck/hp/oral-treatment-pdq

• MedlinePlus: Genetic Testing Overview
  https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/testing/

• For insights on Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) applications, visit the
  Teleton Foundation Official Website
  https://www.telethon.it/en/