In this week’s roll of The News at GeneArche, Rajat Kumar Mondal, our Senior Bioinformatics Scientist, talks about his bioinformatics beginnings, the journey into personalised wellness, the challenges along the way and how he’s helping build the future at GeneArche. To begin, could you briefly introduce yourself and your journey so far? I’m Rajat Kumar Mondal, and I work as a Senior Bioinformatics Scientist at GeneArche Wellness. My journey started with a BSc in Zoology, followed by dual Master’s (MSc and MTech) in Bioinformatics. Over time I have focused on data curation, AI and ML, software development, and developing biological databases, which naturally led me to applying genomics and computational biology to real-world healthcare and wellness. Tell us about the first thought that came to your mind when you encountered the idea of connecting bioinformatics with personalised wellness? It felt like the perfect bridge between research and daily life, turning complex genomic data into actionable insights that can genuinely help people make better health decisions. From your perspective, what’s more challenging – making sense of the DNA data or convincing people why genomic insights truly matter? Both are challenging in different ways, but convincing people is harder. The science keeps advancing, but building trust and helping individuals understand why these insights are valuable takes patient communication. The Government of India has recently launched initiatives like the GenomeIndia Project. What impact do you foresee these efforts having on healthcare and wellness in India? GenomeIndia aims to map the genetic diversity of people across the country. By creating a large reference of Indian genomes, it will allow researchers and clinicians to understand population specific risk factors, identify novel disease markers, and design treatments that are more accurate for Indian patients. Over time this will make preventive healthcare, early diagnosis, and personalised nutrition or drug recommendations far more reliable and affordable. Building on that, what’s coming up at GeneArche that excites you the most, and how do you see it shaping the future of wellness? I am excited about the advanced AI based wellness tools we are building to help users explore their own genetic data in a simple and interactive way. These features will make it easier for people to understand their reports and take meaningful steps for their health without needing a technical background. Finally, looking ahead, what’s one breakthrough you hope to see in the personalised wellness sector within the next 10 years? I hope to see a seamless system where genomic data, wearable sensors, electronic health records, and lifestyle tracking all come together in real time. Such an ecosystem would allow doctors and individuals to predict and prevent diseases before symptoms appear, tailor treatments to each person’s biology, and keep wellness management continuous rather than reactive. Disclaimer: The image in display was – Designed by Freepik.

On today’s feature of The News at GeneArche, we welcome Ms. Shrushti Salunke, our Bioinformatics Scientist. From her beginnings as an aspiring bioinformatician to the curiosity that drives her, she shares her ongoing journey at GeneArche. For those who may not be familiar, what does a bioinformatician actually do? A bioinformatician works at the intersection of biology, computer science and mathematics to analyze large complex biological data like DNA, RNA and proteins. In healthcare and consumer genomics, this is a very critical role where they identify genetic variations that may influence an individual’s health, nutritional needs, or lifestyle traits. In simple words, bioinformaticians help turn complex genetic data into practical insights for better healthcare decisions. How did you get into bioinformatics and what continues to spark your curiosity in the field? I was always curious about the biological processes happening in the human body, but what interested me the most was going deeper into the biomolecule level – their sequences and how they interact with each other. These small interactions are what drive bigger changes in biological processes, and I found that really fascinating. What drew me to bioinformatics was that it doesn’t just stop at research. It gives a way to apply this knowledge in a meaningful way, like turning genomic data into insights that can actually help people. That mix of curiosity about the science and the chance to see real applications is what keeps me motivated in this field. We often hear about “Big Data” and “AI” in healthcare. What impact do you see in your day to day work and is it really the silver bullet people expect? Big Data and AI have definitely made a big impact in my day-to-day work. Genomic data is huge and complex, and these tools make it possible to process and analyze it much faster than traditional methods. AI, in particular, helps in spotting patterns and connections in the data that would be very hard to find on our own. I don’t think of them as a “silver bullet,” but more as powerful tools. The real value comes when we combine AI with strong biological knowledge and careful interpretation. In that way, Big Data and AI are helping us move closer to more personalized and effective healthcare solutions. Can you tell us a little about your journey at GeneArche and what you’re currently working on? GeneArche gave me the chance to apply my bioinformatics knowledge to real-world healthcare problems and to work with actual genomic datasets. As a bioinformatics scientist here, I work with data from different sequencing techniques, study the health effects of genetic variations, and also explore how AI can be applied at the intersection of healthcare and biology. Since it’s a startup, I also get to be involved in many other aspects like supporting application development, contributing to database design, and managing data. This variety has been a great learning experience and has helped me grow both technically and professionally. If DNA is like a code to be unravelled then what’s the most fascinating pattern you’ve come across so far? What fascinated me the most is how even a small variation in DNA can have a big impact. It’s not only about health conditions but also about traits and behaviors, like how someone responds to food, exercise, or even taste. Seeing how tiny changes in the code can shape such different outcomes is what makes working with genomic data so interesting for me. What adds to the excitement is that these patterns are not just scientific findings – they can actually be used to guide real-life choices for better health and lifestyle. Knowing that the work we do can directly help people understand themselves a little better makes it even more meaningful. Final question for you, what makes GeneArche’s approach towards wellness stand out in your view? What makes GeneArche’s approach stand out is the way it connects genomic information directly to healthcare and wellness. By looking at the effect of variations linked to different predispositions, we can understand how a person’s body may respond in certain situations. Based on that, we provide healthcare and lifestyle recommendations that are more personalized. This focus on turning complex genetic data into practical, easy-to-follow guidance is what makes the approach unique and meaningful in my opinion. Disclaimer: The image in display was – Designed by Freepik.

In this edition of The News at GeneArche, Mrs. Yamini S. Naik, our Operations Manager and certified nutrigenomics specialist, breaks down how your DNA and nutrition connect and why it could change the way you think about wellness. What first drew you to the world of health and wellness? Do you see the growing interest in preventive wellness as just a trend or something deeper? A family member’s struggle with uncontrolled diabetes showed me how lifestyle diseases spiral if ignored. Watching him face complications like neuropathy and amputation made me question if things could have been prevented earlier. That moment set me on this path. Preventive wellness is not a fad. It reflects a shift where people realise daily choices can help prevent conditions such as diabetes, PCOS and hypertension. It is about empowerment rather than treatment. As a certified nutritionist and nutrigenomics expert, how do you see nutrition and DNA influencing each other? Our DNA shapes how we process food, while nutrition influences how those genes express themselves. For instance, two girls with PCOS followed the same plan. One saw results, the other did not. Her genetics revealed insulin resistance and slower fat metabolism. With a more personalised plan, she achieved results. That’s why I say our DNA is more like a compass than a cage. It can point out where the challenges lie, but it doesn’t lock us in. With the right nutrition and lifestyle choices, we can change the direction of our life story. With growing focus on concepts like longevity and preventive health, how can understanding our genetic predispositions help us? Genetics highlights risks such as inflammation, weaker bone density or slower metabolism before they become problems. Knowing this helps us make smarter choices in nutrition, exercise and supplements. It allows us to move from a one size fits all model to personalised plans that extend both lifespan and health span. People often hear that lifestyle choices can influence how genes behave. Could you share a simple example of how this works in everyday life? Take insulin resistance. Someone eating sugary and processed foods may activate risk genes, while another person with the same predisposition who eats fibre rich foods and stays active can keep them silent. This is epigenetics in action. Our genes may load the gun, but lifestyle choices decide whether the trigger is pulled. With over 10 years of experience in nutrigenomics, what made you choose GeneArche and how do you see your role as Operations Manager shaping up here? I joined GeneArche because it connects conventional nutrition with truly personalised care. Genetics and AI come together here to make preventive health both practical and impactful. As Operations Manager, I focus on creating smooth processes, building partnerships and turning genetic insights into everyday solutions people can use. With the government urging citizens to cut back on oil, sugar and fight obesity, how can GeneArche support these efforts? GeneArche can help people act on these initiatives in a more personalised way. Some individuals are genetically prone to sugar cravings, while others metabolise fats more slowly. By tailoring diet, fitness and lifestyle strategies to each person’s DNA, we make these efforts more effective and sustainable, reducing lifestyle disease risks over time. Disclaimer: The image in display was – Designed by Freepik.

Author: Dr Pankaj Gupta, BDS, MBA, PGDCA Evolution of regulatory frameworks has always been an interesting bellwether for growth phases in businesses. This is however not obvious to those stakeholders, who take a short and transactional perspective of their business and have their eyes focused on the rearview mirror. Increasing regulation and compliance is an indication that governance is anticipating a particular business, being about to experience the next order of growth; much like masterplans for cities that investors see opportunities for windfall gains in. Businesses that are data enabled are currently experiencing this phase with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) which is maturing. The Healthcare Context Healthcare is increasingly data driven with a lot of diagnostic, clinical and health financing aspects increasingly pivoting on data;  and technology driven innovation continuously increasing the data component of healthcare. Thus, the Indian healthcare sector is witnessing a significant shift in the form of a digital transformation. This is driven by a confluence of factors including the need for a more seamless care continuum driven by growing patient expectations in public and private healthcare systems, and the government’s ambitious digital health initiatives based on the need to ensure healthy and productive populations. This transformation necessitates a robust data governance framework to ensure patient privacy, data security, and interoperability. As an act of stewardship, the government has been proactively evolving the regulatory guardrails and standards that are essential for transformative growth. The National Digital Health Blueprint (NDHB) and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) laid the groundwork, and now the Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDP Act) is accelerating the development of a seamless and integrated digital health ecosystem, fueling a significant growth spurt in the sector. Notably, the ABDM data management policy has been explicitly stated to be in alignment with the requirements of the DPDP Act. This underscores the importance of adhering to both frameworks for all healthcare organizations seeking to stay relevant and access growth opportunities. Key Considerations for Compliance: Data Ownership and Fiduciary Responsibility: A key aspect of both the DPDP Act and the ABDM policy is the recognition of the patient as the owner of their health data. Healthcare organizations act as fiduciaries, meaning they have a legal and ethical obligation to protect and responsibly manage patient data on their behalf. Breach of this fiduciary duty can result in severe penalties under the DPDP Act. This fiduciary responsibility includes: Challenges and Opportunities The transition to a digital health landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for healthcare organizations in India Challenges: Opportunities: Conclusion The digital transformation of the Indian healthcare sector is inevitable. However, it is crucial for healthcare organizations to understand the significant legal and financial risks associated with non-compliance with the DPDP Act. By fully embracing the principles of the NDHB and ABDM, adhering to the ABDM data management policy, and prioritizing data privacy and security, these organizations can not only ensure compliance with all relevant regulations but also unlock the full potential of digital health to improve patient care and transform their businesses and the healthcare sector in India. Proactive and robust data protection measures are not just a compliance requirement, but a strategic imperative for long-term success in the evolving digital health landscape. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the key considerations for healthcare organizations in India as they navigate the evolving digital health landscape. By aligning with the NDHB, ABDM, and the DPDP Act, and by prioritizing data privacy and security, these organizations can not only ensure compliance with all relevant regulations but also unlock the full potential of digital health to improve patient care and transform the healthcare sector in India. Disclaimer: This article provides a general overview of the topic. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. The specific requirements and guidelines may vary depending on the individual circumstances of each healthcare organization. Any errors or omissions are sheerly coincidental and totally unintended.

Welcome back to The News at GeneArche! Today, Mr. Shubham Agrawal joins us to share his unique insights on genetics, genetic counselling and more. What exactly does a Genetic counselor do and why should someone consult one? A genetic counselor serves as a bridge between patients and healthcare. We analyse a person’s clinical, medical and family history, both past and present while considering their genetic predispositions. Based on this, we provide pre-test and post-test counseling at various life stages, helping individuals make informed decisions tailored to their unique genetic profile. With your experience in the consumer genomics field, how much does our DNA influence our health and well-being? Honestly? Everything you see in your body and even beyond is a result of your genetic makeup. What you eat, what you drink, what you shouldn’t, which exercise suits you best, what medications work for you – it’s all tied to your DNA. Tell us about your journey with GeneArche. How did it all begin? My journey with GeneArche was quite unexpected. I interviewed for a position on the same day I was supposed to leave the city. But as luck would have it, I soon joined as a Genetic Counselor. What truly drew me in was their ethical approach – focusing solely on consumer genomics without making exaggerated clinical claims. For any genetic counselor, that’s essential. Can you share a real-life example where a consumer genomics approach made a meaningful difference in someone’s health or well-being? There have been many cases, but one stands out. A woman underwent consumer genomics testing due to concerns about her weight. She was preparing for a civil services medical examination and required a working solution for weight loss and muscle development. Using insights from her DNA, we developed a personalised diet plan and within 15 days, she successfully reached the required weight loss goals without the use of any supplements. Interestingly, after such rapid weight loss, she experienced no side effects, even two months later. With so many direct-to-consumer DNA testing options out there, how can someone unfamiliar with the field choose a reliable one? The key? Ask questions. You don’t need to be an expert in genetics – just be curious. Start by asking about their processes and don’t hesitate to request a conversation with someone who has technical expertise rather than just the sales. Make your expectations crystal clear so you receive results that truly benefit you The Genome India Project (GIP) was recently announced by the Government of India. What changes do you anticipate as a result? For the first time, we have a dedicated database for the Indian population – this is huge. It means we can finally tailor precision medicine and personalised care to Indian needs. It also helps map the burden of prevailing genetic conditions and reclassify uncertain genetic variants. And honestly, I believe this is just the beginning. This project will bring genetic counselors into the spotlight and propel India into a new era of healthcare. Disclaimer: The image in display was – Designed by Freepik.

Today, Dr. Pankaj Gupta joins us on The News at GeneArche, where he shares his insights on GeneArche and beyond. Going back to the beginning, could you share with us how you became associated with the idea behind GeneArche? I was introduced to Manish as an investor. The investment didn’t happen but we became friends. We bootstrapped. Manish took my advice and pivoted from a Lab business to a Tech and Data play. With your extensive experience in the Indian Healthcare Sector, where do you see the future of consumer genomics heading? Consumers are happy spending on beauty, fitness, nutrition, well-being. Moreso after Covid because the fitter survived. Sickness is a push business whereas Wellness has a pull. Wellness is bigger than the Sickness business model. The Government of India recently passed the DPDP (Digital Personal Data Protection) Bill. How do you think this will impact companies like GeneArche and the healthcare/wellness sector in India? For the first time ever, the data belongs to the person or the consumer. The rest are just fiduciaries in the system. Consent must be obtained for every single purpose and duration of storage. All of these are completely alien concepts for India’s healthcare and wellness businesses. AI has recently become the talk of the town, but there are also many misconceptions surrounding it. Given your experience, how do you see AI affecting healthcare especially in a country like ours? Learn to ride it rather than resist the change. This change is inevitable. LLM models are proving to be better than medical residents and wellness coaches already. How do you ensure that GeneArche stays ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving health and wellness landscape? The healthcare financial value chain always accrues to the payer and pharma. However, wellness is different. The average consumer wants to look good and feel good. Once they fall in love, there is no stopping. At GeneArche, we are always focused on leveraging AI and our extensive R&D history for Indian subpopulation research How is AI and tech in healthcare, transforming processes at GeneArche? GeneArche is a digital-first consumer business walking at the cutting edge of Digital innovation and AI. We’re utilising these advancements to curate more precise care plans, deliver data-driven insights, enhance patient engagement, advance our own Indian Subpopulation research and generate predictive models for genetic risk. The impact is simply immeasurable! Disclaimer: The image in display was – Designed by Freepik.

This week, we sit down with Mr. Manish Pungliya, Director – GeneArche Wellness, to ask him a few questions: What is GeneArche Wellness all about, and how does it stand out in the wellness industry? Well GeneArche Wellness offers a unique approach to achieving optimal health. We focus on consumer genomics and AI-driven interventions, providing insights and care that can make a real difference in your everyday well-being. What sets us apart is our dedicated R&D efforts for the Indian subpopulation, which is still underexplored. We’re committed to shedding light on Indian genomics, much like how research has unlocked immense benefits in more established markets. Can you share the inspiration behind GeneArche and the idea driving its creation? The inspiration behind GeneArche came from a thought experiment—how can we use advanced genomics to make health and wellness more personalised and accessible? Who can benefit the most from GeneArche’s personalised wellness solutions? Honestly, everyone! That’s the beauty of our solutions. They’re painless, done once in a lifetime and the insights last forever. Our approach can have a huge, lasting impact on your health. What’s a success story that highlights the impact of GeneArche on someone’s health journey? This question resonates with me personally. One case that stands out is a client who had high blood glucose levels despite maintaining an active lifestyle. Our genetic testing revealed a strong predisposition in his DNA, and we used this information to create a unique, personalised care plan. Today, he’s thriving, and this case is a constant reminder of the potential impact GeneArche can have. How do you see the future of healthcare and wellness evolving in India? I believe India is at a tipping point. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly raised awareness about health and wellness. Now, we’re witnessing a growing demand for personalised health services across the country. What role will consumer genomics play in this future, and how is GeneArche leading that revolution? Consumer genomics is the future of healthcare and wellness in India. We’ve all heard the phrase “prevention is better than cure,” and that’s precisely what consumer genomics will deliver. GeneArche is at the forefront of this revolution, helping to raise awareness and provide solutions that make a difference. Disclaimer: The image in display was – Designed by Freepik.

Sports Genomics: A Secret Weapon In sports, everyone’s got their own secret weapon—some swear by their lucky socks, others by a quirky pre-game routine. But what if we told you the real game-changer might be hiding in your DNA? Sports genomics is here to give you an edge, and trust us, it’s way cooler than lucky socks. Genetics and Performance: Your Built-in Playbook Imagine your DNA as a secret coach who knows exactly how to boost your performance. It’s not about helping you ace your exams; it’s about helping you smash your personal best. Your genes can influence everything from how fast you sprint to how long you can endure. Think of them as your personal playbook, guiding you to greatness. Injury Prevention: Your DNA’s Hidden Shield Injuries are the unwelcome plot twists in your athletic journey. Good news: your DNA might hold the key to avoiding them. By understanding your genetic risks, you can tweak your training to dodge those painful setbacks. It’s like having an invisible shield—only instead of deflecting lasers, it’s keeping you off the injury list. The Future of Sports Genomics: Pushing the Limits As athletes increasingly unlock their genetic data, the game is set to change dramatically. Sports genomics is like having a top-tier upgrade for your training regimen—it won’t magically turn you into an overnight champion, but it will definitely sharpen your edge. Keep in mind, though, that even with these advanced insights, dedication and hard work remain key. There’s no quick fix for reaching the top. The Complete Solution: It’s Science, Not Magic Let’s set the record straight—sports genomics isn’t a magic wand for instant success. It’s a powerful tool, but like any tool, it’s only as good as the effort you put into using it. Combine these genetic insights with solid training and expert advice, and you’ll be well on your way to reaching your goals. Even Batman needed a little help from Alfred, after all! Conclusion Sports genomics is your ticket to unlocking hidden potential and staying ahead of the game. While it won’t replace the need for hard work and dedication, it can give you the insights you need to train smarter and achieve your best. Ready to see what your DNA has in store? Dive into sports genomics and take your game to new heights!

DNA and your Nutritional challenges Life today is like a high-speed roller coaster—one minute you’re in one city, the next in another, juggling work, family, and everything in between. Amidst all this, trying to maintain a balanced diet can feel like hunting for a needle in a haystack. You’ve got all sorts of advice thrown at you, from fad diets to miracle supplements, but how do you know what really works for you? Here’s where things get interesting: What if the secret to your perfect diet isn’t hidden in the latest health magazine, but in your very own DNA? Yes, your genes might hold the key to why you crave that extra slice of pizza or struggle with those stubborn pounds. Enter Nutrigenomics: Your DNA’s Personal Chef Imagine your DNA as a wise old chef who knows exactly what ingredients your body needs to thrive. Nutrigenomics is the science that helps you decode these genetic recipes. It’s like having a personalised nutritional guide that cuts through the noise of generic advice. Here’s the lowdown: Genetic Variability: About 30% of your diet response is shaped by your genes. So, while your friend might thrive on a high-carb diet, your DNA could be telling you to back off the bread. Metabolism Mastery: Your genes decide how you handle fats, proteins, and carbs. Some of us are naturally built to burn fats like a pro, while others find carbs are their best friends. It’s like your genes are picking your dietary dance partners. Nutrient Absorption: Not everyone’s body is a nutrient sponge. Your genes might mean you need a bit more vitamin D to keep your bones happy, or that your body struggles to soak up iron from that hearty spinach salad. So, while green tea might be the latest health craze, it might not be the miracle your DNA is craving. Why Stick to One-Size-Fits-All? Generic diet advice is like wearing a one-size-fits-all T-shirt—sure, it fits, but it doesn’t look great on everyone. Nutrigenomics offers a custom-tailored approach, fitting your diet to your genetic profile like a glove. The Conclusion: Ready to move beyond cookie-cutter diets and find out what your body really needs? Dive into the world of nutrigenomics and discover the dietary secrets your DNA has been keeping. It’s time to stop guessing and start knowing—because your nutrition should be as unique as you are!

Imagine waking up one day and realizing you can no longer enjoy your favourite oats, bread, or even certain types of beer. This could be a sign of Celiac Disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by consumption of gluten, which causes chronic inflammation in the small intestine. Diagnosing this condition can be challenging, especially when it presents no obvious symptoms, making early prevention difficult. But what if you had known about this condition from childhood? You could have monitored for symptoms after eating gluten, occasionally replaced it with foods like fruits, unprocessed eggs, almonds, and rice, and maintained a healthier gut microbiome. This is where consumer genomics comes in. Consumer genomics offers direct-to-consumer genetic testing services that provide insights into various traits, health conditions, ancestry, nutrition, sports, and more. The tests can use either blood samples or saliva, so those with a fear of needles can take a sigh of relief. Testing can be done as early as 10-12 years of age, turning your saliva sample into a comprehensive genetics report. With this information, you can create a personalized plan for yourself, based on your genetic makeup. You can get the freedom to live your best life possible. Beyond Celiac Disease, you can discover which nutrition is best for you, what types of exercises your body responds to, insights into your sleep cycle, ancestry, skincare needs, potential health conditions, pharmacogenomics, and more. By understanding your genetic makeup, you can make informed decisions about your health and lifestyle. Leverage the power of genetic insights to optimize your life and proactively manage your wellbeing. Let us help you unlock the potential of your genetics to achieve a healthier, happier life.