On 10 April 2023, NSTDA and Bangkok Genomics Innovation Public Company Limited (BkkGI) entered an agreement to support a research collaboration to study human gut microbiome by utilizing a next-generation sequencing technology. Representing the two parties at the signing ceremony were NSTDA Executive Vice President Dr. Sarun Sumriddetchkajorn and BkkGI Director Mr. Preecha Laohaphongchana, along with Dr. Sissades Tongsima, Director of National Biobank of Thailand (NBT), NSTDA and Dr. Saowaluck Dansakul, BkkGI CEO.

Dr. Sarun Sumriddetchkajorn said that the collaboration between NBT-NSTDA and BkkGI will investigate gut microbiome of healthy Thai population to establish a comprehensive gut microbiome database. This microbiome database is immensely valuable for the new discovery of microbial utilization for commercial and social purposes and driving the bioeconomy under the Bio-Circular-Green Economy (BCG) model.

“The main objective of this research collaboration is to share and utilize the expertise and resources of both parties in applying next-generation sequencing to perform metagenomic analysis of human gut microbiome. As the gut microbiome plays an important role in human health and is associated with a variety of diseases, this study will support a wide range of health research,” said Dr. Sarun.

Mr. Preecha Laohaphongchana remarked that this research collaboration will create a body of knowledge that will enhance diagnostic capability and develop human capacity for the benefit of Thai people.

“This partnership is based on a complementary advantage of each party. While NSTDA specializes in research and development, BkkGI has an expertise in genomic sequencing. Our joint study will not only shed light on metagenomics of healthy people, but also contribute to future health research,” said Mr. Preecha.