We are glad to announce that Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Educational and Research Institute (RKMVERI) will be conducting a special colloquium on “One Health Genomics: From Biodiversity to Healthcare” on 23 August 2024, 12 Noon at Seminar Hall, Narendrapur Campus.

Speaker : Prof. Sankar Kumar Ghosh, FNASc, Assam University, Silchar
Co-ordinator: Prof. Abhijit Chakrabarti

Abstract

A global One Health Mission is essential to address phenotypic diversity, involving human, animal, and environmental health. Gene sequences guide inheritance and shape phylogenetic traits. Genomics and DNA barcoding play a crucial role in exploring and preserving Earth’s biodiversity. Global initiatives like iBOL, AG2P, and BioSCAN focus on host-environment connections and conservation.

In Northeast India and the Sundarbans, DNA barcoding and phylogenetic studies have been used to identify different species in UNESCO-protected areas, including fish, insects, farm animals, and medicinal plants. Genomic similarities are high (99.5–99.9%), with the remaining 0.1-0.5% accounting for individual variations. These variations, such as single-nucleotide mutations can cause diseases like sickle cell anaemia. The future lies in personalized gene-based therapies and orphan drug treatments for rare diseases.