Big data and DNA are at the heart of the genomic revolution, with advances allowing for speedy cancer diagnosis and possibly protecting thousands of lives each year. Beyond cancer diagnosis, genomic innovation includes gene editing and anti-cancer medications. Because of its significant applications in medicine, the genomics sector is poised for expansion.
The Genomic Revolution: What Is It?
To begin, the genomic revolution revolves around the study of the human genome, which is a full collection of DNA in a human (or organism).
There are 24,000 genes and 23 pairs of chromosomes in an adult person. Three billion DNA letters make up the human genetic code when combined. Since most diseases are related to our genetic makeup, genomics studies the structure, function, and modification of a genome.
Large-scale uses of diagnostics and decision-making tools for a variety of illnesses are made possible by genomic innovation.
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Four Ways Medicine Has Been Impacted by the Genomic Revolution
1. Genetic Editing
Employing this technique of gene editing, scientists may modify DNA, including eye color, to produce live medications. The medicines, which are generated from living organisms and have a $200 billion market potential, deal with ailments by using the body’s immune system.
- CRISPR-Cas9
The CRISPR-Cas9 method has revolutionized gene editing by altering DNA mutations, with uses ranging from curing chronic illnesses to enhancing transgenic crops. It may be used to create illness models and research novel medications. CRISPR enables safe hereditary alteration, allowing whole generations to be changed in a short time.
2. Detection of Cancer
More cancer deaths are expected to be prevented by multi-cancer screening than by any other medical advancement, thanks to the assistance of liquid biopsies and genetic sequencing. With the use of a single blood test, this technique may discover genetic variations or cancer-causing genes and diagnose several cancer kinds early on. The industry is worth $150 billion and might revolutionize healthcare by moving away from a treatment-based approach and towards a preventative one.
There are the types of genomic studies accessible to cancer patients:
- Tumor genome analysis for stage IV patients who are not responding to earlier medicines.
- Patient’s genome is analyzed to discover inherited disease predispositions.
3. Sequencing of DNA
Long-read DNA sequencing is a type of contemporary DNA sequencing. Long-read DNA sequencing allows scientists to detect genetic sequences more quickly and inexpensively.
As a result of these factors, long-read DNA sequencing is expected to expand to a $5 billion industry at an 82% annual rate.
4. Agricultural Biology
Finally, the genetic revolution is advancing agricultural biology. Here, research is focused on lowering agricultural production costs, boosting plant breeding, and improving crop quality.
According to research, genetic improvements in agriculture have resulted in six-fold gains in revenue for certain farmers.
Final Thoughts
Technological improvements in recent years have enabled doctors to perform diagnostic tests at the patient’s bedside rather than at the laboratory bench. These ‘point-of-care diagnostics’ devices help both patients and healthcare providers. Faster results imply faster treatment and lower health-care costs.
