The Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) is an Indian biotechnology research centre, based in Hyderabad, India. It is an autonomous organization funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India.
This research center was established in the year 1990. It aims to provide DNA fingerprinting services and diagnostic facilities to identify genetic diseases. It facilitates forensic investigations and contributes to molecular biology and comprehensive research in genetics.
Sphere Of Activity In CDFD
- DNA Fingerprinting – The center offers forensic applications that provide DNA fingerprinting services. These services aid in criminal investigations, resolving issues like paternity disputes, and identifying missing persons.
In addition, these services assist law enforcement agencies with legal concerns. They also support courts with scientifically accurate DNA evidence for legal decision-making.
- Genetic Diagnostics – The center facilitates genetic testing procedures that analyze DNA for diagnostic applications. It covers the diagnosis of genetic or hereditary disorders, carrier screening, prenatal and postnatal diagnosis, and newborn screening. The healthcare professionals or the genetic counselors provide genetic counseling to the individuals and families affected by genetic predisposition. The information obtained through DNA analysis is communicated effectively to the affected people. During the counseling sessions, genetic counselors discuss risk assessment and disease management strategies with them. This enables individuals and couples to make decisions regarding childbirth and consider reproduction options.
- Research and Development – CDFD supports research and development in Genomics and Molecular Biology. It facilitates cutting-edge research in genomics, proteomics, bioinformatics, and molecular diagnostics.
Besides, the center also enables to engage in collaborative research on various projects with national and international research institutions.
- Training and Education – The centre focuses on capacity building by arranging various training programs and workshops. These are arranged for participants including scientists, clinicians, and students of advanced molecular biology and genetic diagnostics. Apart from this, CDFD also ensures to make the public aware of the advantages and need of DNA analysis. To raise awareness among the public, the centre arranges outreach programs. Such programs inform about the importance of genetics in healthcare and forensic science.
Services Offered By CDFD
The centre provides the following facilities:
- Laboratory Facility – The centre operates in state-of-the-art facilities. It employs new-age equipment and advanced technology. Equipped with cutting-edge technology tools, the CDFD center facilitates processes like DNA sequencing, PCR, microarray analysis, and other molecular biology techniques. For the interpretation of biological data effectively, the center provides bioinformatics Support. Bioinformatics enables computational analysis of genetic data, including genome annotation, data mining, and molecular modeling.
- DNA Typing – This is one of the core services provided by the centre for forensic and personal identification purposes. It facilitates comprehensive DNA typing.
- Diagnostic Services – Offering a wide range of genetic tests, including tests for single-gene disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, and complex diseases.
Research Departments and Divisions
- Genomics – Genomic research plays a crucial role in the sequencing and analyzing genomes of various organisms. It helps understand genetic diversity and the mechanism of disease.
- Proteomics – Proteomic research at the centre allows comprehensive study of the structure and function of proteins. The study clarifies the roles of proteins in health and disease.
- Bioinformatics – Bioinformatics research at the CDFD centre helps in developing computational tools and databases to manage and process biological data.
Contributions and Achievements Of CDFD
- Genetic Research – The CDFD has done revolutionary and pioneering research in human genetics. The comprehensive study has upgraded the procedure of identification of novel genetic variants. It has also advanced the knowledge about the factors involved in the development of various genetic diseases.
- Forensic Breakthroughs – Ever since its establishment in 1990, the CDFD centre has significantly contributed to resolving high-profile criminal cases. It has also helped in settling paternity disputes in India through evidence gathered from DNA analysis.
- Healthcare Impression – The use of advanced technologies in DNA processing has improved diagnostic accuracy and patient care through personalized medicine. State-of-the-art technologies have introduced advanced genetic testing and treatment approaches.
Genetic Testing at CDFD Centre
The centre for dna fingerprinting and diagnostics – cdfd in Hyderabad, India, is a prominent establishment that offers a range of genetic testing services. The centre facilitates such services to cater to various needs. These needs include medical diagnostics, forensic investigations, and research purposes.
Let us have a look at the types of genetic testing offered by the centre:
- Diagnostic Genetic Testing – This test helps identify the genetic mutations or variations that potentiate an individual’s risk of developing some genetic disorder. This diagnostic evaluation checks for single-gene disorders, multifactorial disorders, chromosomal abnormalities, prenatal testing, and newborn screening.
Early evaluation will help with critical decision-making, which is essential for treatment strategies and effective management of the condition.
Techniques Used – For performing such tests, various techniques are employed. These include Karyotyping, Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH), Comparative Genomic Hybridization (CGH), Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).
- Forensic Genetic Testing – This type of testing provides DNA evidence for criminal investigations, paternity disputes, and identification of missing persons. It includes services like DNA profiling for crime scene evidence and paternity cases. Besides, the test can also help identify the remains of remains of unknown humans in cases of disaster victim identification. It helps compare DNA markers to identify biological connections.
The centre is inclined towards the expansion of services by adopting innovative techniques and providing advanced services. Aspiring students can also apply for the centre for dna fingerprinting and diagnostics summer internship programs. They must pass eligibility criteria to secure a place in the program.
Conclusion
A pioneering institution like the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD) is in Hyderabad, India. This premier establishment is committed to the advancement of DNA fingerprinting and genetic diagnostics.
The centre has a crucial role in forensic science, medical genetics, and research. All these services contribute significantly to public health, law enforcement, and scientific knowledge.
Services offered by CDFD involve cutting-edge research and commitment to training and education, making it an influential entity in molecular genetics and dia
