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NDTV
13-06-2025
- Health
- NDTV
DNA Fingerprinting: Science Steps In To Help Identify Air Crash Victims
As the nation mourns the victims of the devastating Air India crash in Ahmedabad, science is quietly stepping in to offer solace to grieving families. In a special NDTV interview, one of India's foremost molecular biologists, Dr Rakesh Mishra, former Director of the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad, and currently Director, Tata Institute for Genetics and Society, Bengaluru explained how DNA fingerprinting can play a pivotal role in identifying victims - even when bodies are severely charred. What is DNA Fingerprinting? DNA fingerprinting, Dr Mishra explained, is a well-established technique used to identify individuals based on their unique genetic code. "From any biological material-be it tissue, blood, saliva, or even a hair follicle - we can extract DNA," he said. "Even a very small amount is sufficient." The process involves isolating DNA and analyzing specific regions of the genome known as short tandem repeats (STRs). These regions vary significantly among individuals, making each person's DNA profile unique. "We can determine whether two samples come from the same individual or different individuals, and even establish familial relationships," he added. Can It Work in a Plane Crash? One of the most pressing questions in the aftermath of the Air India plane crash is whether DNA can be extracted from bodies that have been severely burned. Dr Mishra was unequivocal: "Yes, it's possible. DNA is present in almost every cell of the body, and even if the tissue is charred, we can often retrieve it from bones or small fragments." He pointed out that forensic scientists have successfully extracted DNA from ancient remains, including Neanderthals. "If we can do that, we can certainly identify victims from a recent crash," he said. Speed and Accuracy In emergency situations, time is of the essence. According to Dr Mishra, DNA fingerprinting can be completed in as little as a day if fast-tracked. "DNA isolation takes a couple of hours, and the rest of the analysis can be done within a few more. Under standard conditions, it usually takes a couple of days," he said. The accuracy of the method is also beyond question. "Each person has a unique DNA signature. While we can't tell the name of the person from the DNA alone, we can confirm their identity by comparing it with samples from relatives," he explained. India's Capability and Infrastructure India is well-equipped to handle such forensic challenges. "We have our own technology," said Dr Mishra. "Thanks to pioneers like Dr Lalji Singh, former director of CCMB and a pioneer in DNA fingerprinting, India was among the first countries to accept DNA evidence in courts." The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) in Hyderabad is the national hub for such work. Additionally, state-level labs like the Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre (GBRC) in Gandhinagar are also capable of collecting and processing DNA samples. "These are now fairly standard techniques," he said. "Even local police are trained in how to collect and preserve biological samples." Handling Mixed Samples In mass casualty events like plane crashes, remains are often commingled, raising concerns about whether individual identities can still be determined. Dr Mishra acknowledged the complexity but remained optimistic. "If blood from two people is mixed, it becomes tricky. But if tissues are collected separately, we can distinguish between individuals," he said. He emphasized the importance of careful sample collection. "Tissues should be placed in separate polythene bags and transported on ice to a certified lab. This ensures the integrity of the samples," he added. The Science Behind the Process The core of DNA fingerprinting lies in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), a technique that amplifies specific DNA regions. "We look at multiple markers-sometimes 50 or more. If 40 match between two samples, it suggests a familial relationship. If none match, they are un-related," said Dr Mishra. This allows scientists to not only identify individuals but also establish relationships-such as confirming whether two victims were siblings or parent and child. "It's a powerful tool for bringing closure to families," he said. A Message of Hope There is a role of science in times of tragedy, the victims' families can be assured that identification is possible, even in such dire circumstances. Dr Mishra said, "Science can go where other technologies fail. DNA fingerprinting is one such example. It's unfortunate that we need it in such situations, but it's reassuring to know that we have the tools to help, and India has its own indigenous technology."
Indian Express
07-06-2025
- Science
- Indian Express
Saving endangered species, one DNA sample at a time: Here is Delhi Zoo's new conservation plan
Eyeing long-term conservation and research projects, the National Zoological Park (NZP) in Delhi is exploring the possibility of setting up an on-site wildlife biobank in collaboration with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) in Hyderabad. The proposed facility is expected to collect and preserve genetic material — DNA, tissues, reproductive cells — from animals at the zoo. The initiative is part of a broader effort led by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to strengthen ex-situ conservation in Indian zoos. The biobank at the zoo in the Capital is expected to follow a model already implemented at the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling, which became the first to establish such a facility under the initiative earlier this year. While the process is in its early stages, officials involved in the project said the proposed biobank in the city could contribute to building a national repository of genetic material for conservation science. The samples collected are intended strictly for research and regulated breeding purposes, under the supervision of the CZA and CCMB, as third-party usage requires explicit approval. In 2021, the Delhi zoo was among six zoos that had been identified by the CZA to join the Consortium of Indian Zoos for Biobanking of Wildlife Genetic Resources under a pilot project. The programme was built on a tripartite agreement signed in 2019 between the CZA, CCMB-LaCONES (Laboratory for the Conservation of Endangered Species), and the selected zoos. Under this agreement, zoos, including Delhi's NZP, have been encouraged to collect biological samples from deceased animals, as well as from live animals during health interventions, for submission to the National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank (NWGRB) at the CCMB's laboratory. 'We are roping in CCMB for biobanking. This will help us preserve DNA, tissues, organs, and gametes of endangered or vulnerable species. The cells will be taken from dead animals and kept in a cold storage facility,' said Dr Sanjeet Kumar, Director, National Zoological Park. 'This will help preserve the genetic pool for future conservation and research…' According to scientists at CCMB, while this can be done on all animals, endangered or endemic species will be in focus. As per the October-December 2024 quarterly inventory report of the National Zoological Park, it is home to several endangered species listed under Schedules I and II of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. These include the Asiatic Lion, Bengal Tiger, Indian Elephant, Indian Rhinoceros (Greater One-Horned Rhino), Sloth Bear, Lion-tailed Macaque, Indian Wolf, Indian Bison (Gaur), Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog), Eld's Deer, Four-horned Antelope, Himalayan Black Bear, Marsh Crocodile, Gharial, Indian Rock Python, and Spectacled Cobra. At present, samples collected from zoos are sent to the CCMB facility in Hyderabad. According to officials, this has posed logistical challenges. 'Bringing samples to the CCMB facility after postmortem is a challenge. They need to be preserved within four hours. That's the reason for the need for localised facilities,' Dr Govindha-swamy Umapathy, Chief Scientist, the CCMB, told The Indian Express. When asked why the biobanks have not been established yet, Umapathy said, 'Very simple technology is enough and sufficient; however, management-level hurdles in different zoos have caused a delay in creating such facilities.' As per the agreement, the CZA has committed financial support for participating zoos to establish infrastructure, such as cold storage rooms. CCMB-LaCONES, acting as the technical partner, has been providing training for zoo veterinarians, biologists, and staff on collection, preservation, and transport of samples. 'As per the MoU, we have regularly trained zoo directors, veterinarians and scientists on the effective usage of modern technology, which includes bio-banking,' Umapathy added. Dr Kumar, meanwhile, said the pandemic as well as staff shortage has meant that such conservation initiatives have been delayed. Increased focus on research and conservation studies is also part of the Delhi Zoo's modernisation plan, he added.
New Indian Express
27-05-2025
- Health
- New Indian Express
Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha reviews Covid-19 status, monsoon disease preparedness in Telangana
HYDERABAD: Health officials informed Health Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha during a review meeting on Monday that, based on available data and ongoing research, there is no current danger from Covid-19. They assured the minister that there is no need for panic, as herd immunity has already been achieved across the state and the country. Raja Narasimha convened a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat to assess the Covid-19 situation and preparedness for the prevention and control of seasonal diseases in the state. Subject experts briefed the minister on Covid-19 trends both nationally and globally. They said, according to current data, the situation remains under control and does not pose any significant public health threat. Although some countries have reported a sporadic rise in cases, hospitalisation rates remain negligible. The experts advised that individuals with comorbidities or compromised immunity should exercise caution, though there is no cause for widespread public concern. They further noted that the country has largely achieved herd immunity, which is helping stabilise the situation. Asymptomatic and silent transmissions are occasionally observed but tend to subside without significant impact. Regarding preparedness for seasonal illnesses ahead of the monsoon, the health minister stressed the need for an advanced surveillance system to monitor acute respiratory infections and vector-borne diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and typhoid. He suggested collaboration with institutions including CCMB, CDFD, NIN-ICMR, AIIMS Bibinagar and NIMS. He directed officials to strengthen seasonal illness preparedness, including sanitation, vector control and district-level coordination, to be undertaken proactively ahead of the monsoon. With agricultural activity increasing during the season, the minister also flagged the potential rise in snake and scorpion bite incidents. He instructed all healthcare facilities, from Primary Health Centres to teaching hospitals, to be equipped with adequate antivenom and supportive medication.
Hans India
27-05-2025
- Health
- Hans India
Gearing up for monsoon: Damodar calls for advanced disease surveillance
Hyderabad:As part of measures to improve preparedness for seasonal illnesses in the upcoming monsoon, Health Minister C Damodar Rajanarasimha on Monday directed officials to have an evolved surveillance system across both State and Central institutions for acute respiratory illnesses and vector-borne diseases like dengue, chikungunya, typhoid in collaboration with CCMB, CDFD, NIN-ICMR, AIIMS Bibinagar and NIMS. The minister convened a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat to assess the COVID situation and preparedness for prevention and control of seasonal diseases in the State. During the deliberations, the subject-matter experts briefed him on the COVID trends in India and globally. It was informed that, based on existing data and ongoing research, the situation was under control and does not pose any significant public health threat. Though sporadic increases in cases have been reported in some countries, hospitalisation rates remain negligible. It was further emphasised that persons with co-morbidities or compromised immunity should exercise due caution, while there is no cause for general alarm among the public. Experts informed that India has largely achieved herd immunity, which was contributing to stabilisation of the situation. They noted that asymptomatic and silent transmissions are being observed occasionally, but these are subsiding without major impact. The minister stressed that public should rely on the inputs from experts across prominent medical and research institutions and avoid unrest. The minister issued directions to strengthen preparedness for seasonal illnesses, including maintaining sanitation, vector control and district-level coordination for the monsoon should be taken up proactively. As agricultural activity increases during monsoon, there was a potential rise in snake and scorpion-bite incidents. All healthcare facilities from PHCs to teaching hospitals must also be equipped with requisite anti-venom and supportive medication. He reiterated the government commitment to ensure robust public health preparedness and directed all concerned officials to remain vigilant and proactive in implementation of the measures. Health Secretary Christina Z Chongthu, director of CCMB Dr Vinay Nandicoori, AIIMS director Dr Abhishek Aror and others attended the meeting.
The Hindu
26-05-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Telangana to begin sending COVID-19 samples for genome sequencing
The Telangana government will be ensuring genome sequencing of viral samples to track potential mutations of COVID-19, announced Health Minister C. Damodar Raja Narasimha during a high-level review meeting held on Monday, to assess the current pandemic situation and prepare for the upcoming seasonal disease surge. The meeting, attended by senior scientists and officials from institutes such as the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD), Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), and AIIMS Bibinagar, was convened to streamline inter-institutional coordination for public health. 'While there is no significant threat from COVID-19 at present, it is essential to maintain vigilance through continued surveillance,' the Minister said. He instructed the Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Ravinder B. Nayak, to begin sending samples for genome sequencing to monitor any emerging variants. CCMB Director Dr. Vinay Kumar Nandicoori assured that despite fluctuating global case numbers and a rise in hospitalisations in some countries, the situation in Telangana remains under control. 'Thanks to herd immunity, most people in the state and across India are not experiencing severe symptoms,' he said. Dr. Abhishek Jagdishchander Arora, Head of Radiodiagnosis at AIIMS Bibinagar, added that no fresh advisory has been issued by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. As the state braces for the monsoon season, which typically sees a spike in vector-borne and respiratory illnesses, the Health Minister directed officials to strengthen early prevention mechanisms. He urged routine surveillance of Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illness (ILI), and directed coordination with institutions like CCMB, CDFD, NIMS, and AIIMS Bibinagar. Rapid response teams will be established in all districts, alongside grassroots-level awareness campaigns in collaboration with the Panchayati Raj and Municipal Departments. The Minister stressed leveraging social media to disseminate accurate health information quickly and widely. Officials have also been asked to identify dengue and malaria hotspots and deploy special teams for public awareness and sanitation drives. With outpatient and inpatient numbers expected to rise during the rainy season, hospitals have been directed to maintain an adequate stock of medicines, diagnostic kits, and medical supplies and ensure patient nutrition and hygiene. Issuing a warning to private hospitals, the Minister said that any attempt to overcharge patients for dengue treatment would invite strict action.
