CHECK: World’s first CRISPR CaS-9 based diagnostic tool
Tata Medical and Diagnostics Ltd (TataMD) have unveiled “TataMD CHECK” which is a novel diagnostic testing for COVID-19. It is the world’s first CRISPR CaS-9 based diagnostic tool and is powered by FELUDA. CRISPR Cas-9 is a technology developed in India by CSIR- IGIB for COVID-19 testing. TataMD is the healthcare venture of Tata Group.
TataMD CHECK has been approved by Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). This new diagnostic testing for COVID-19 has been developed within a short span of 100 days of the licensing of technology.
Advantages of TataMD CHECK
- TataMD CHECK is a simple testing process requiring standard laboratory equipment. TataMD CHECK will be a simple paper-strip test that will give image-based visual results. Small batches of TataMD CHECK testing can be conducted at a time.
- One of the most important advantages of TataMD CHECK is the quick results. The testing will have a reaction time of 45-50 mins in lab and the total testing time starting from extraction of RNA sample to results is 75 minutes.
- This testing will be able to provide high quality and quick results and will not require highly trained staff. The simplicity of testing will make it available in the remote areas also.
- Regular quality control using sensors and AI-based result tool will help authorities and patients with the traceability of the sample, evidence of test, and test results accessible anywhere on cloud storage.
TataMD CHECK testing kit will be manufactured in Chennai, Tamil Nadu in a quality-controlled production facility. At present, the production plant has a capacity of producing 1 million kits in a month.
While speaking at the occasion of launch, Girish Krishnamurthy Tata Medical and Diagnostics CEO that they are committed to provide wide accessibility and easy availability of the testing kits. He also hinted of similar launches in the future.
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Month: Current Affairs - November, 2020