'India is on the threshold of a biotech revolution but speed is the greatest barrier." DR SWATI PARIMAL, Director, Nicholas Piramal India Ltd

New technologies like "DNA on a chip" and PCR are set to provide instant, accurate and cheap diagnosis of diseases one suffers as well as diseases one is genetically predisposed to. These technologies will be in the market in 2-5 years. The concept: DNA on a chip is a glass slide coated with genes of interest, fluorescently labelled. If the patient has genes for a disease, those areas of the glass slide fluoresce instantly in a colour-coded manner. PCR amplifies genes so small differences can be detected.

MARKET: Around Rs 920 crore last year, doubling every three years.

"India possibly has half the world's genetic mutations, a potentially rich source of knowledge." DR SAMIR BRAHMACHARI, Director, Functional Genomics, CBT

With the help of computers, the genetic basis of India's tremendous diversity can be documented. The data can then be matched with the human genome to locate genes with properties like malaria resistance. Computers also help 'mine' genes for common diseases. CBT is studying diseases from asthma to epilepsy based on such techniques. Other institutes like CDFD are using similar techniques for drug-resistant tuberculosis and the gastric ulcer causing bacteria.

MARKET: Negligible in India yet. May reach Rs 13,800 crore in three years.

 

Genetic engineering is producing cheaper and better vaccines for diseases from hepatitis B to cholera. Cheap human insulin for diabetics can also be developed by such techniques. There is a huge unmet demand for rabies and typhoid vaccines. Shantha Biotechnics is also looking at genetically engineered drugs like streptokinase for cardiovascular diseases. Firms like Biocon are studying the small genetic variations that differentiate individuals. These errors could provide leads to why some people suffer side effects from using common drugs and others do not, pointing to a future with "designer drugs" tailor-made for the individual.

MARKET: For vaccines alone is Rs 460 crore, growing at 20 per cent.

Plant crop yields can be increased, and crops grown in inhospitable areas, by inserting or manipulating genes for salinity and drought/flood tolerance. The Rice Genome Project is sequencing such genes. Plants with genes for increased nutrition are being developed at TERI. Scientists at IARI are developing edible vaccines in vegetables, and trying to develop fruits that remain fresh after transport.

MARKET: Estimated to reach Rs 6,900 crore by the year end.