Private labs to assist in genome sequencing

Private Labs to Assist in Genome Sequencing

India’s genomic surveillance efforts received a significant boost as private laboratories were brought in to assist with genome sequencing — a critical tool for tracking COVID-19 variants and understanding the genetic diversity of the SARS-CoV-2 virus circulating in India.

Why Genome Sequencing Matters for COVID-19

Genomic sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 allows scientists and public health authorities to identify new variants, track their spread across regions, understand their mutations, and assess whether they are more transmissible, more severe, or better able to evade immunity from prior infection or vaccination. India’s INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium) was established to coordinate COVID-19 genomic surveillance across the country.

The Role of Private Labs

Scaling up genomic sequencing requires significant laboratory capacity — specialised equipment, trained personnel, and bioinformatics infrastructure. By bringing private accredited laboratories into the INSACOG network, India was able to dramatically increase its sequencing throughput, enabling faster identification of new variants and more comprehensive geographic coverage.

MapmyGenome — India’s largest personal genomics company with a CAP & NABL-accredited laboratory and deep expertise in next-generation sequencing (NGS) — is among the private laboratories contributing to India’s genomic surveillance efforts.

Genomics Beyond COVID

The infrastructure and expertise built for COVID-19 genomic surveillance has broader applications — from cancer genomics and rare disease diagnosis to population health research and personalised medicine. India’s investment in genomic capacity during the pandemic is laying the foundation for a stronger genomic medicine ecosystem.