Gujarat-Based Biobank Powers India’s Fight Against Rare Diseases

Mar 25, 2026

Gujarat is emerging as a key hub in India’s fight against rare genetic diseases, led by a major initiative in Ahmedabad. The FRIGE’s Institute of Human Genetics has set up the country’s first national biobank focused on Lysosomal Storage Disorders, backed by government support. Developed over 22 years, it contains samples and clinical data from over 530 patients, helping researchers identify genetic mutations and improve diagnostics. With support from the Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission, efforts are underway to develop affordable diagnostic kits and explore gene therapy. The institute has already achieved success in diagnosing 19 disorders using advanced sequencing. By focusing on affordability, the initiative aims to make costly treatments more accessible and strengthen India’s healthcare innovation.