In India, where the estimated cancer incidence is climbing steadily, a significant challenge in providing effective cancer care lies in the lack of indigenous genomic data. Addressing this gap, Bengaluru-based start-up 4baseCare is pioneering an innovative approach by building a precision oncology database tailored for Indian patients. By integrating Indian genomic data, the start-up seeks to ensure that Indian cancer patients receive treatments better suited to their genetic profiles—a critical advancement in a field often dominated by data on Caucasian populations.
Founded by scientists Hitesh Goswami and Kshitij Rishi, 4baseCare emerged from a shared vision to make precision oncology both accessible and affordable in India. Despite advancements in the West, where genomics has transformed cancer treatment, Goswami observed a stark contrast in India’s healthcare landscape, where most solutions lacked local applicability. After extensive research on over 1,500 Indian patients across 28 cancer types, the team developed a gene panel that identifies nearly 1,200 genes related to cancer progression, enabling more tailored cancer treatments based on unique genetic markers.
In 2019, 4baseCare became the first start-up in the Asia-Pacific region to join the prestigious Illumina Accelerator Program, gaining valuable exposure to international genomics expertise and technology. With support from leading Indian hospitals and research centres, the team conducted whole exome sequencing on tumour samples, identifying gene mutations specific to Indian cancer patients. The culmination of this effort was the launch of the TarGT IndieGene panel in 2021, a pioneering gene panel developed from 10,000 GB of Indian genomic data. The panel not only integrates local data but also includes global genomic information to make the solution comprehensive and suitable for international use.
4baseCare’s focus on affordability and sustainability addresses key civic and urban healthcare issues. By lowering the cost of advanced genetic tests, which range from ₹15,000 to ₹3 lakh, the start-up ensures that precision oncology is within reach for a larger segment of India’s population. Additionally, the TarGT IndieGene panel contributes to sustainable healthcare by relying on data from Indian bio-samples, reducing dependency on foreign testing services and supporting self-reliant cancer care.
Looking ahead, 4baseCare plans to incorporate artificial intelligence and machine learning to create clinical genomic digital twins for new patients. This database would help match incoming patients with others who share similar genomic attributes, offering insights into potential treatment paths. Goswami notes that while complete cures aren’t promised, data-backed decisions can significantly improve patient outcomes. By learning from every patient’s journey, 4baseCare aims not only to provide diagnostics but to set a new standard in personalised cancer care, reshaping precision oncology in India and beyond.
