ICMR Partners with Molbio Diagnostics to Launch Multiplex RT-PCR Assay for Enteric Viruses

EnViro-Q, designed with sensitivity and specificity comparable to international assays, provides reliable results within 2–2.5 hours, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis.

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has signed a technology transfer agreement with Molbio Diagnostics to commercialize EnViro-Q, India’s first multiplex real-time RT-PCR assay for detecting enteric viruses.

This diagnostic tool, developed by ICMR’s National Institute for Research in Bacterial Infections (ICMR-NIRBI) in Kolkata, aims to address significant diagnostic gaps in managing viral gastroenteritis, particularly in children.

Targeting Childhood Gastroenteritis

Viral gastroenteritis remains one of the leading causes of childhood mortality worldwide. Existing diagnostic methods often misclassify viral infections as bacterial, leading to the misuse of antibiotics.

EnViro-Q, designed with sensitivity and specificity comparable to international assays, provides reliable results within 2–2.5 hours, enabling faster and more accurate diagnosis.

“By equipping healthcare providers with a reliable, multi-virus detection tool, we are addressing one of the leading causes of childhood mortality,” said Dr Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR.

Global Access & Affordable Pricing

Under the collaboration, Molbio Diagnostics will make EnViro-Q accessible globally, with a particular focus on public health sectors. The company plans to offer the assay at cost-effective prices through a revenue-sharing model with ICMR.

Shiva Sriram, President of Business Development at Molbio Diagnostics, emphasized the potential of the tool to transform healthcare.

“This innovative solution enables accurate, rapid, and affordable detection of enteric viruses, significantly reducing misdiagnosis and unnecessary antibiotic usage. We are committed to making healthcare accessible worldwide.”

Advancing Diagnostics for Public Health

EnViro-Q’s ability to detect co-infections and reduce the need for repeated testing is expected to greatly enhance diagnostic capabilities in primary healthcare settings.

The tool’s rapid and precise detection capabilities could help improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of viral gastroenteritis in children.

“Our non-exclusive collaboration with Molbio Diagnostics underscores ICMR’s commitment to advancing public health through accessible and impactful solutions,” added Dr Bahl.

The development and commercialization of EnViro-Q represent a significant milestone in India’s efforts to innovate diagnostic technologies and address pressing healthcare challenges both nationally and globally.

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