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Fortis Institute of Genomic Medicine

About the Fortis Institute of Genomic Medicine

Fortis Institute of Genomic Medicine is India’s leading hub for precision diagnostics, innovation, and research in the field of genomics. Located at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, integrates ultrafast molecular diagnostics, AI-powered bioinformatics, and a multidisciplinary team to offer personalized solutions for both benign and malignant disorders.

Where Precision Meets Personalized Cancer Care

At the Fortis Institute of Genomic Medicine, we are revolutionizing the approach to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and management by harnessing the full potential of genomic science. As a leading Centre of Excellence, our institute is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art, individualized care that leverages the latest advancements in genomic technology and research.

Pioneering the Future of Cancer Care
Cancer is not a single disease but a group of diseases, each unique in its molecular and genetic makeup. At Fortis, we recognize that every cancer diagnosis is different, and thus, every treatment approach should be tailored to the individual. Our genomic medicine program allows us to go beyond traditional methods by analyzing the genetic alterations and mutations that drive cancer growth. By decoding the molecular structure of tumors, we gain crucial insights that guide personalized treatment strategies, ensuring that patients receive the most effective therapies with fewer side effects.

Our approach is rooted in precision medicine, which focuses on targeting the underlying genetic factors of cancer rather than just treating symptoms. This allows us to offer more effective and customized care, empowering patients with the knowledge and treatment options that are best suited to their unique condition.

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  • Why Genomics?

    Genomics is the study of your entire DNA – not just one or two genes. It helps us:

    • Detect inherited conditions early
    • Classify complex diseases like cancer more accurately
    • Guide targeted therapies
    • Predict treatment response and monitor residual disease
    • Personalize care like never before
  • What We Offer

    1. Benign Genomics
      1. Inherited cancer risk (e.g. BRCA1/2, Lynch syndrome)
      2. Thalassemia, sickle cell disease carrier screening
      3. Neurogenetics (epilepsy, ataxia, muscular dystrophy)
      4. Pediatric disorders (developmental delay, autism, syndromes)
      5. Cardiogenetics (arrhythmias, cardiomyopathies)
      6. Pharmacogenomics (drug metabolism and adverse reaction prediction)
      7. Nutrigenomics & Wellness
    2. Malignant Genomics
      1. Solid Tumors: Breast, lung, colon, prostate, ovary, etc.
      2. Hematologic Malignancies: Leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma
      3. Liquid Biopsy & ctDNA for real-time cancer tracking
      4. CAR-T and transplant eligibility panels
      5. Minimal Residual Disease (MRD) by NGS
      6. CHIP and pre-leukemic state detection
      7. Fusion gene detection and novel mutation analysis
  • Unique USPs of Fortis Genomics

    • India’s first real-time NGS platform (Ion Torrent Genexus) for same-day reports
    • Multispecialty Genomic Tumor Boards
    • AI Club-powered precision bioinformatics
    • Home-grown expert team of molecular oncologists, geneticists, and bioinformaticians
    • Integrated reporting aligned with global guidelines (AMP, CAP, ASCO, ACMG)
    • Multi-language patient-centric reports for better understanding
    • Genomic counseling for patients and families
    • National registries and research leadership (e.g., AML, CHIP, CAR-T, lymphoma)
       
  • Research and Innovation

    Fortis is proud to lead several national and institutional research initiatives:

    • India’s largest AML Genomic Study
    • ctDNA monitoring for DLBCL
    • AI-based prediction models in transplant and cancer genomics
    • Launch partner for India’s first Genomic Registry on CHIP and pre-malignant clones
       
  • Comprehensive Genomic Profiling

    We use cutting-edge genomic profiling to map the genetic mutations and alterations in cancer cells. By analyzing a patient’s tumor DNA and RNA, we can identify potential targets for therapy, predict how the tumor will respond to various treatments, and uncover new treatment options. This enables us to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the specific genetic landscape of the tumor.

  • Molecular Tumor Board

    Our Molecular Tumor Board brings together a team of multidisciplinary experts, including oncologists, geneticists, pathologists, and bioinformaticians, to discuss complex cancer cases. This collaborative approach ensures that patients benefit from the combined expertise of professionals who use genomic data to determine the most appropriate and personalized treatment plans.

  • Hereditary Cancer Risk Assessment

    Our team provides genetic counseling and tests for inherited mutations that could increase the risk of certain cancers. Through genetic testing and family history analysis, we offer patients valuable insights into their genetic predispositions, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding prevention, early detection, and proactive healthcare measures.

  • Pharmacogenomics

    Understanding how an individual’s genetic makeup affects their response to medications is key to personalized cancer treatment. We utilize pharmacogenomic testing to guide clinicians in selecting the right drugs at the correct dosage for each patient, minimizing adverse effects and improving the overall effectiveness of the treatment.

  • Clinical Trials and Precision Therapies

    The Fortis Institute is at the forefront of precision oncology, offering access to clinical trials that explore the latest in targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and gene-editing techniques. Our patients have the opportunity to participate in groundbreaking research, gaining access to innovative therapies that may not be available elsewhere.

  • Applications of Genomic Medicine

    1. Cancer
    Genomic medicine is reshaping how we detect, assess, and treat cancer. Some people carry specific gene mutations that significantly raise their risk for certain cancers. For instance, individuals with a BRCA1 mutation can face up to an 80% lifetime chance of developing breast cancer. Similarly, those with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) are almost certain to develop colorectal cancer unless preventive measures are taken.

    However, it's important to note that only around 5% to 10% of all cancers are directly linked to inherited genetic syndromes. In most families, cancer risk isn't elevated due to genetics alone. That’s why collecting a thorough family history remains crucial it helps determine whether genomic testing is needed or not.

    Patients with lung cancer who have specifically ROS1 gene fusion often respond positively to targeted therapy with Crizotinib. In such cases, the disease is most effectively understood and managed based on its specific genetic alteration.

    The number of individuals qualifying for genetic testing and enhanced cancer screening due to family history is steadily increasing, making genomics a central pillar of modern oncology & precision care. 

    2. Rare, Inherited Diseases
    There are over 7,000 known rare diseases, and the vast majority have a genetic origin. These conditions often manifest during childhood and can be challenging to diagnose using traditional methods.

    Genomic testing has become a powerful tool in uncovering the causes of rare conditions. It helps not only in making a definitive diagnosis but also in guiding treatment plans and informing care strategies for family members who might be affected.

    Advances in whole genome and exome sequencing are now giving answers to many individuals who previously remained undiagnosed, sometimes for years. As awareness and access to testing grow, more patients and families are benefiting from genomic insights every day.

    3. Pharmacogenomics
    Pharmacogenomics where genetics meets prescribing is transforming how medications are chosen for individual patients. Currently, it’s estimated that nearly 50% of prescribed drugs are either ineffective or cause unexpected side effects. This leads to avoidable health complications and places a substantial burden on healthcare systems.

    By analyzing a person's genetic makeup, pharmacogenomics can predict how they’ll respond to certain medications whether the drug will work, whether it’s likely to cause harm, or if an alternative would be better.

    For example, individuals with specific variants in the SLCO1B1 gene are at higher risk of developing muscle pain or myopathy when taking simvastatin, a common cholesterol-lowering drug. Having this information in advance helps clinicians make safer, more effective prescribing decisions.

    As our understanding of gene-drug interactions deepens, pharmacogenomics is expected to play a growing role in everyday medical practice, especially in primary care.

Our Hospitals

Our Speciality

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    Medical Genetics

FAQs

  • Is genomic testing only for cancer patients?

    No. Genomic testing is useful in a wide range of conditions, from inherited disorders and pediatric syndromes to lifestyle-based wellness optimization.
  • How is genomics different from a routine blood test?

    Routine blood tests show what’s happening now. Genomics shows what could happen, how your body might respond to treatments, and what risks you may carry.
  • Can I do genomic testing without a doctor’s prescription?

    While many tests are available directly, we recommend a specialist consultation to choose the right test and interpret results appropriately.
  • Is genomics safe? Will it affect my insurance or job?

    Genomic testing is safe and only involves a blood or saliva sample. In India, genetic discrimination laws are evolving, and your results are handled with the utmost confidentiality.
  • What is CHIP?

    Clonal Hematopoiesis of Indeterminate Potential (CHIP) is a pre-leukemic condition where healthy individuals have mutations in blood-forming cells. Early detection can help monitor cancer risk.
  • Fun Genomics Facts

    • Your DNA could stretch from Earth to the moon and back — over 100,000 times.
    • 99.9% of your DNA is identical to every other human. It’s the 0.1% that makes you… you.
    • You have more bacterial DNA in your body than human DNA.
    • Genomics helped identify the exact COVID-19 strain in days — a process that took years before.
  • Why Is Genomics Important?

    Genomics is transforming the landscape of modern healthcare by providing deeper insights into the genetic underpinnings of disease. It plays a crucial role in everyday primary care, offering valuable information for diagnosing, managing, and even preventing a wide range of health conditions.

    One key area where genomics has a significant impact is in the diagnosis of rare diseases. Although each rare disease may affect only a small number of individuals, collectively they impact around 1 in 17 people—making them surprisingly common in clinical practice. Genomic testing can help identify these conditions early, often after years of inconclusive symptoms, enabling targeted treatments and improved patient outcomes.

    Genomics is also pivotal in understanding and managing chronic and complex diseases like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain autoimmune disorders. By uncovering the genetic variations that contribute to these conditions, clinicians can offer more personalized treatment plans—often referred to as precision medicine—which can be more effective and carry fewer side effects.

    In essence, genomics is no longer a niche area of science—it is becoming a fundamental part of proactive, personalized, and preventive healthcare.
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