ICMR Develops Affordable CRISPR-Based TB Detection Tool

The test is priced at INR 35 per sample and developed by ICMR's regional center in Dibrugarh, Assam, as the 'CRISPR Cas12a-based TB detection system'.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has developed an affordable tuberculosis (TB) testing technology that offers a rapid and cost-effective method for identifying TB using a patient’s sputum sample.

It is developed by ICMR's regional center in Dibrugarh, Assam, as the 'CRISPR Cas12a-based TB detection system'.

The test is priced at just INR 35 per sample, making it accessible for large-scale use, particularly in resource-limited settings.

About the Detection Tool

The CRISPR-based TB detection system is designed to be light and portable, allowing for easy deployment in various healthcare settings.

The testing process involves three steps, enabling the system to test over 1,500 samples in a single run within approximately two-and-a-half hours, according to ICMR sources.

This is a significant improvement over conventional TB diagnostic techniques, which often require more time and sophisticated equipment.

Traditional TB diagnostic methods, such as culture testing, can take up to 42 days to confirm a negative result. Other common methods, including microscopy and nucleic acid-based techniques, are also time-consuming and may require advanced laboratory facilities.

In contrast, the new CRISPR-based system is not only faster but also more practical and economical.

Challenges in TB Diagnostics

An official from ICMR highlighted the global health challenge posed by tuberculosis, emphasizing the need for accurate and rapid diagnostic tools to manage the disease effectively.

Current diagnostic methods often fall short in terms of sensitivity, specificity, speed, and cost. While some molecular diagnostic methods offer improved sensitivity, they may still lack the desired specificity or face challenges related to cost and ease of use.

To address these issues, ICMR has introduced the 'GlowTBPCRKit,' a CRISPR Cas12a-based molecular diagnostic system. This system, coupled with an amplification step using a thermal cycler and the 'RapidGlow device,' offers a promising solution for TB detection.

ICMR Seeks Partners for Technology Commercialization

To accelerate the commercialization of this innovative technology, ICMR has invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from eligible organizations, companies, and manufacturers interested in undertaking the 'Transfer of Technology' for the CRISPR Cas-based TB detection system.

The ICMR-RMRCNE institute will provide expert guidance and technical support throughout the production process, ensuring that the technology is developed and commercialized effectively.

ICMR's team of scientists will also offer technical support in areas such as study planning, product development, data analysis, and safety assessment.

This collaboration aims to facilitate the rapid development and deployment of this advanced diagnostic tool, potentially transforming the landscape of TB detection.