News Excerpt:

The ICMR has called for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from organizations, companies, and manufacturers to undertake the 'Transfer of Technology' for the commercial production of a CRISPR Cas-based TB detection system, developed by the ICMR-RMRCNE Institute in Dibrugarh.

Features Of  CRISPR Cas-based TB detection: 

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is advancing efforts to develop an affordable, fast, and easy-to-use testing technology for tuberculosis (TB) detection.
• This technology is touted as the "world’s cheapest TB testing system."
• The innovative system can detect the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in a patient’s saliva, making it accessible and cost-effective. 
• It can identify TB bacteria even in the early stages .
• It can test over 1,500 samples simultaneously within approximately two hours making it faster and efficient.
• The simplicity of the technology allows it to be used even in primary health centers in rural areas.

India’s Fight Against Tuberculosis:

• Tuberculosis remains a major public health challenge in India, causing an estimated 480,000 deaths annually, or over 1,400 fatalities each day.
• The country also faces the issue of over a million 'missing' TB cases each year, which go undiagnosed or inadequately treated, particularly in the private healthcare sector.
• India aims to eliminate TB by 2025, but progress has stalled, according to a senior Health Ministry official. 
• There is now an effort to re-evaluate the treatment protocol, including TB medication and its duration, to renew the initiative towards achieving a TB-free India with zero deaths, disease, and poverty resulting from TB.

Future Course of Action:

• The ICMR has expressed its readiness to transfer the CRISPR Cas-based TB detection system technology to eligible manufacturing companies through exclusive or non-exclusive agreements. 
• These agreements will be governed by ICMR's Intellectual Property Policy.
• The selected companies will be granted rights to further develop, manufacture, sell, and commercialize the technology.
• ICMR-RMRCNE Institute will provide expert guidance and technical support throughout the production phases of the TB detection system. 
• The Council's team of experienced scientists will assist in study planning, product development, data analysis, and safety and efficacy assessment, among other areas.
• ICMR will also facilitate R&D and clinical studies in collaboration with the selected companies and institutions, ensuring a professional and mutually agreed timeline.
• The Council clarified that it will not bear any financial implications unless specifically stated in the agreement. 

The initiative is expected to accelerate the development and commercialization of the TB detection system, offering a promising solution to tackle TB in India.