Thailand Doctors Identify Unique Genetic Variations in the Thai Population Through Advanced Genome Study
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 17, 2025 3 hours, 38 minutes ago
Thailand Doctors:
Groundbreaking Genetic Research Sheds Light on Thai DNA
A team of researchers from Mahidol University’s Faculty of Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital has conducted a pioneering study to analyze the genetic makeup of the Thai population. Their findings have uncovered crucial genetic variations that could improve medical screenings and help prevent hereditary diseases among Thai individuals.
Thailand Doctors Identify Unique Genetic Variations in the Thai Population Through Advanced Genome Study
By using a method known as trio-based whole-genome sequencing, which examines DNA from both parents and their child, the scientists were able to detect new genetic mutations that may influence health conditions. This
Medical News report highlights key findings that could reshape genetic research and healthcare planning in Thailand.
Large-Scale Study Reveals Millions of Genetic Variants
The study involved sequencing the genomes of 120 individuals from 40 Thai families. The researchers identified more than 20.2 million genetic variants, including 1.1 million previously unknown mutations. Among these, 169 variants were categorized as pathogenic, meaning they are linked to serious health conditions.
One of the most significant discoveries was a de novo (newly developed) mutation in the SF3B2 gene, which is associated with craniofacial microsomia, a condition that affects the development of the face. The study also found mutations in genes such as HBB and HBA2, which are linked to thalassemia, a common blood disorder in Southeast Asia. Other identified mutations include ATP7B, which causes Wilson’s disease, and genetic changes in PDE4DIP, UBXN11, and AXIN1, which are linked to hepatocellular carcinoma, a form of liver cancer.
Understanding the Impact of Genetic Variations
The study emphasized that understanding genetic diversity is essential for developing effective medical screenings and treatments. The
Thailand Doctors noted that many of the genetic mutations found in the Thai population are not commonly present in global genetic databases, such as the widely used 1000 Genomes Project. This highlights the importance of conducting localized genetic studies to ensure accurate disease predictions and medical interventions.
One major revelation was that the mutation rate appeared to be influenced by the age of the parents. The study found that older parents had a higher chance of passing de novo mutations to their children. This suggests that advanced parental age may play a role in the emergence of certain genetic disorders, reinforcing the need for further investigations into genetic risk factors in Thailand.
Improving Genetic Screening for Disease Prevention
Thailand Doctors believe that their findings can contribute to better disease prevention strategies and more precise genetic screening tests tailored to the Thai populati
on. For example, the discovery of rare and novel genetic mutations could lead to the development of early detection methods for hereditary diseases like thalassemia and certain cancers.
Furthermore, the research highlights the importance of implementing whole-genome sequencing in routine medical care. By integrating genetic data into patient assessments, healthcare providers can offer more personalized treatments and predict an individual’s risk of developing specific illnesses. This approach could revolutionize Thailand’s healthcare system and pave the way for a new era of precision medicine.
Conclusion
This study represents a major step forward in understanding the genetic landscape of the Thai population. By identifying millions of genetic variants, including previously unknown mutations linked to severe health conditions, Thailand Doctors have provided a foundation for future research in medical genetics. Their findings will play a crucial role in improving disease prevention, refining genetic screening tests, and ultimately enhancing healthcare for Thai citizens.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: Biology.
https://www.mdpi.com/2079-7737/14/3/301
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