Vaccine efficacy: What’s holding India back from ramping up genome sequencing

No sooner was the novel coronavirus identified, its genome was sequenced and monitored closely at a global level for mutations.

Genome or gene sequencing is an advanced method by which researchers ascertain the genetic information patterns of an organism.

It also provides insights into the likelihood of changes or mutations in the genes as part of the organism’s natural survival mechanism. Knowledge of these changes helps in designing and developing therapeutics.

With new variants of coronavirus such as the UK, South Africa, and Brazil strains threatening to affect vast populations, there is a greater necessity to quickly identify newer and dangerous mutations.