Central Idea

CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) is spearheading a groundbreaking research endeavour called the “Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)”.
This integrated genomics and epigenomics study aims to unravel the genetic underpinnings of NCD’s prevalent in diverse populations, including South Asians.

Diverse Epigenetic Epidemiology Partnership (DEEP)

DEEP is an integrated genomics and epigenomics study focused on understanding the genetic factors behind Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in diverse populations, including South Asians.
The project spans five years.
It aims to uncover the impact of genomic and environmental diversity on disease risk observed in people worldwide, including those in Asia, Africa, North America, and South America.
It will study individuals from various genetic and environmental contexts to identify DNA methylation patterns contributing to disease risk in each context.
It will develop software, infrastructure, and conduct advanced statistical analyses to create new resources.
This will complement international health and genetics databases and examine trends in DNA methylation variation.

DNA methylation is a process in which chemical groups attach to DNA, regulating the activation and deactivation of genes.
This epigenetic modification helps the body respond to environmental signals and contributes to overall health and disease status.
Understanding the relationships between DNA methylation, genetics, and the environment is crucial for comprehending the pathways governing health, disease, and their consequences.

This research will enable the identification of disease-causing mechanisms that are common worldwide and those which are unique to particular groups or regions.
It will help with answering questions such as whether medicines developed in one part of the world will be effective for all.
Ultimately the DEEP study hopes to enable targeted interventions or treatments and reduce global health disparity and inequity.