"Inventions in genome sequencing and DNA technology will change the health industry in the future, including changes in patient diagnosis and patient treatment," he informed while opening a discussion on genomic technology in Jakarta on Thursday.
Genome sequencing is a method used to sequence the genomes of organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and humans.
Genome is the whole genetic information owned by a cell or organism, or in particular, the entirety of the nucleic acids that contain that information.
The development of genome sequencing technology is in line with the health transformation that is being promoted by the Ministry of Health, namely the transformation of health technology, including biotechnology, the minister noted.
According to him, the study of genomes plays an important role in understanding and analyzing DNA. The use of this technology can bring benefits to the medical world in terms of delivering more precise diagnoses to patients.
The development and use of genome sequencing technology in Indonesia is in its early stages. However, Sadikin said that Indonesia has many opportunities it can explore in this field in the future.
Given its biodiversity, genomic data, and population size, he believes that Indonesia will be able to develop genome sequencing technology in the health industry.
Indonesia also has an ecosystem of start-up companies that has developed over the past five to ten years, he noted.
"Our job is to replicate this ecosystem for companies in the biotechnology sector," he said.
According to him, the government's efforts in genome sequencing can also open opportunities for venture capital companies to get actively involved in the health industry, specifically the development of genome sequencing technology.
However, he reminded that investment in this sector requires a long-term commitment.
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Translator: Rizka Khaerunnisa, Resinta S
Editor: Tia Mutiasari
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