Indian Cancer Genome Atlas unveils first cancer multi-omics data portal

The pioneering platform provides open access to clinically correlated data from Indian cancer patients

The Indian Cancer Genome Atlas (ICGA) has launched India's first comprehensive cancer multi-omics data portal. The pioneering platform provides open access to clinically correlated data from Indian cancer patients, aimed at transforming cancer research and treatment for Indian populations.

ICGA's mission is to create Indian-specific datasets to help researchers and clinicians develop personalised treatment protocols. This new open-access portal represents a monumental step in revolutionising cancer research, specifically for Indian patients.

The ICGA cancer multi-omics portal is the first in India to offer data that includes DNA, RNA, and protein profiles of breast cancer patients, integrated with clinical outcomes. Currently, the platform consists of data from 50 breast cancer patients, with plans to expand to over 500 patients in the coming year.

This data is freely accessible to the global research community under India's PRIDE guidelines, which promote ethical sharing and collaboration in cancer research.

Professor Shekhar C Mande, Former DG-CSIR, currently Senior Professor at Savitribai Phule Pune University said, "Making this invaluable cancer data publicly accessible marks a pivotal step in accelerating scientific discoveries and enhancing patient outcomes. By openly sharing this data, we are empowering researchers, clinicians, and innovators to collaborate, explore new frontiers, and drive transformative breakthroughs in cancer treatment."

Joint Statement from Dr JC Zenklusen - Director of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) at the NCI, NIH, USA, and Prof Sunil Badve - Vice Chair, Pathology Cancer Programs, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA said, "15 years ago, when we launched TCGA, we could not have foreseen the remarkable progress cancer research would make. It is incredibly exciting to see ICGA advancing so rapidly and taking bold steps in revolutionising cancer research. Understanding the genome of cancer patients will improve the treatment of Indians not only in India but also worldwide. We, both, encourage others with similar data to actively contribute to ICGA, so this initiative can grow even faster and drive greater breakthroughs."

Dr Anand Deshpande, CMD, Persistent, and Non-Executive Director at ICGA said, "We have made an excellent start with this groundbreaking multi-omics cancer portal. Cancer touches all of us, and the need for more effective, personalised treatments—especially tailored to the unique genetic and environmental factors in India—is urgent. This portal will empower researchers with crucial data to advance customised cancer research for better treatment outcomes. I encourage everyone to contribute and support this vital cause, helping us accelerate progress in the fight against cancer."