Tests on genetic link
Thai researchers will conduct whole genome scans on 3,000 blood specimens from tsunami survivors in a bid to determine whether there is any link between genes and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The scans will be conducted in Japan, where modern labs and equipment are available. Dr Thongchai Tavichachart, who heads the Thailand Centre of Excellence for Life Sciences, said yesterday the results would provide benefits to people across the world. "The results should come out within one year," he said. The decision to conduct the whole genome scans came after Yusuke Nagamura, who heads the Human Genome Centre in Japan, came to Thailand to give a lecture to doctors, scientists and researchers. During his trip, the Japanese expert visited a lab at the Rajanukul Institute to see the collection of blood specimens from tsunami survivors who suffered from PTSD. Nagamura was interested in conducting a study on the blood specimens from PTSD tsunami survivors and their relatives.
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