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DNA Programming and Cardiometabolic Risks
Vitamin B12 deficiency on both paternal and maternal sides alters DNA programming, increasing the risk of cardiometabolic syndrome in offspring in a sex-specific manner. Dr. Shantanu Sengupta, Senior Principal Scientist at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi, highlighted this during a keynote lecture at a national symposium on ‘Mass Spectrometry-Based Lipidomics’ at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (BRIC-RGCB).
Multi-Omics Approach to Understanding Cellular Function
Dr. Sengupta’s study utilized a multi-omics approach, which integrates multiple molecular data types from individual cells. This comprehensive analysis helps researchers better understand cellular behavior and function, leading to more precise insights into disease mechanisms.
‘Phenome India’ Initiative for Cardio-Metabolic Risk Prediction
As per the press release, Dr. Sengupta also discussed ‘Phenome India,’ a large-scale longitudinal study involving over 10,000 individuals. This initiative aims to develop clinically useful and personalized risk prediction scores for complex cardiometabolic disorders, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
By identifying robust and precise biomarker panels, ‘Phenome India’ enhances population screening for individuals at higher risk of cardiovascular diseases, making early intervention possible.
Symposium Inauguration and Participation
Dr. S. Asha Nair, Scientist and Dean of RGCB, inaugurated the symposium, while Dr. Abdul Jaleel, the Organizing Secretary, welcomed the attendees. Delegates from across the country are participating in the two-day conference, engaging in discussions on advanced research and developments in lipidomics and related fields.