Int’l seminar stresses genome sequencing in precision medicine

Genome sequencing is set to reshape the future of healthcare in Bangladesh by enabling faster diagnosis, improved disease risk assessment, and more personalised treatments for complex diseases, experts said at an International Genomics Seminar in the capital on Saturday.

The seminar was organised by Bangladesh Genome Consortium (BGC) with support from Radiant Pharmaceuticals, attended by national and international experts to discuss the expanding role of genomics in advancing modern healthcare and precision medicine.

Opening the seminar Dr. Samrin Islam, Founder of BGC and a genomics and stem cell specialist, stressed that genomics would be a key driver in improving disease detection, treatment strategies, and healthcare outcomes.

Keynote speakers were cancer specialist Professor M.A. Hai, Associate Professor Dr. Mark Christiansen, Head of Genomics at University College London (UCL), Professor Dr. Diego Marin of Rutgers University, USA, Naser Shahriar Zahedi, Chairman of Radiant Pharmaceuticals, and Lt. Gen. Sinha Ibn Jamali (Retd.), Managing Director of the company. The session was moderated by Dr. Zeenat Ara.

Professor Hai said genome sequencing would become increasingly important in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and other complex diseases, while urging Bangladesh to expand access to advanced genomic technologies.

Dr. Christiansen explained how clinical genomics is transforming healthcare delivery by enhancing disease diagnosis, predicting health risks, guiding treatment decisions, and improving patient care. Professor Marin highlighted the growing significance of reproductive genomics, molecular diagnostics, and precision medicine in providing targeted and effective healthcare solutions.

Naser Shahriar Zahedi called on the Ministry of Health to encourage wider adoption of genome sequencing nationwide, saying the technology could significantly strengthen the diagnosis of complex diseases. Lt. Gen. Sinha Ibn Jamali (Retd.) said Radiant Pharmaceuticals’ participation demonstrates the company’s commitment to supporting innovation, advanced diagnostics, and improved healthcare services in Bangladesh.

Dr. Samrin Islam expressed hope that Bangladesh Genome Consortium would contribute to building national expertise in genomics and strengthening the country’s ability to diagnose and manage complex diseases. She also called for greater collaboration among physicians, researchers, universities, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, government agencies, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, technology partners, investors, and other stakeholders to develop a sustainable national genomics ecosystem.

The seminar concluded with an engaging panel discussion focusing on the future opportunities and challenges of genomics and precision medicine in Bangladesh.