Daily Current Affairs : 21-September-2023
In a significant development in the field of medical diagnostics, the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) has granted approval to the state of Kerala to employ the Truenat test for the detection of Nipah virus. This milestone is a testament to the innovative capabilities of Indian medical research and the potential of cutting-edge technology to combat deadly diseases. In this essay, we will delve into the details of TrueNat, its applications beyond Nipah, the role of biosafety levels in testing, and the significance of the Indian Council of Medical Research in promoting biomedical research.
TrueNat: A Game-Changer in Diagnostics
TrueNat is a portable, chip-based, and battery-operated diagnostic machine created by Molbio Diagnostics Private Limited, a company based in Goa. This technological marvel was initially designed to rapidly detect Tuberculosis (TB) within just one hour. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also given its stamp of approval for TrueNat’s efficacy in TB detection, highlighting its global relevance.
Versatility of TrueNat
TrueNat’s capabilities extend beyond TB diagnosis. The ICMR has endorsed its use for detecting other infectious diseases like Covid-19 and Hepatitis, showcasing its adaptability in addressing various public health concerns. The versatility of TrueNat positions it as a valuable tool in the fight against emerging diseases.
TrueNat for Nipah and Biosafety Levels (BSL)
Hospitals equipped with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) laboratories can utilize TrueNat for Nipah virus diagnosis. Biosafety levels play a pivotal role in safeguarding laboratory workers, the environment, and the general public from potential hazards. These levels range from BSL-1 to BSL-4, with BSL-4 representing the highest level of containment for the most dangerous pathogens.
Understanding the Indian Council of Medical Research
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is the apex body in India responsible for formulating, coordinating, and promoting biomedical research. Its roots trace back to 1911 when the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) was established to sponsor and coordinate medical research in the country. In 1949, it was rechristened as the ICMR to reflect its expanded role in the field of medical research.
ICMR’s Governance and Funding
The governing body of the ICMR is presided over by the Union Health Minister, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing medical research. Scientific and technical matters are overseen by a scientific advisory board composed of renowned experts in various biomedical disciplines. Funding for the ICMR is provided by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, ensuring its financial sustainability.
Clinical Trials Registry – India
In 2007, the ICMR established the Clinical Trials Registry – India, a vital initiative that serves as India’s national registry for clinical trials. This registry plays a pivotal role in ensuring transparency and accountability in clinical research, further enhancing India’s position in the global medical research landscape.
Important Points:
TrueNat: A Game-Changer in Diagnostics
- TrueNat is a portable, chip-based, and battery-operated diagnostic machine.
- Initially designed for rapid Tuberculosis (TB) detection.
- WHO-approved for TB diagnosis, highlighting its global significance.
Versatility of TrueNat
- ICMR has endorsed TrueNat for detecting various infectious diseases, including Covid-19 and Hepatitis.
- Demonstrates its adaptability in addressing emerging public health concerns.
TrueNat for Nipah and Biosafety Levels (BSL)
- Hospitals with Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) labs can use TrueNat for Nipah virus diagnosis.
- Biosafety levels ensure safety in laboratory settings, ranging from BSL-1 to BSL-4.
Understanding the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
- Apex body in India for formulating, coordinating, and promoting biomedical research.
- Originated in 1911 as the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) and later renamed in 1949.
- Governed by the Union Health Minister, supported by a scientific advisory board.
- Funded by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research.
Clinical Trials Registry – India
- Established in 2007 by the ICMR.
- Serves as India’s national registry for clinical trials.
- Enhances transparency and accountability in clinical research.
Why In News
Kerala has received approval from the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR) to employ the Truenat test for diagnosing Nipah, showcasing a significant step towards enhancing disease detection capabilities. This recognition underscores the state’s commitment to staying at the forefront of healthcare innovation and preparedness.
MCQs about TrueNat
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What is TrueNat primarily designed for?
A. Covid-19 detection
B. Tuberculosis (TB) detection
C. Hepatitis detection
D. Nipah virus detection
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Which biosafety level is required for hospitals to use TrueNat for Nipah virus diagnosis?
A. BSL-1
B. BSL-2
C. BSL-3
D. BSL-4
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What is the role of the Clinical Trials Registry – India mentioned in the essay?
A. Ensuring laboratory safety
B. Diagnosing infectious diseases
C. Promoting biomedical research
D. Enhancing transparency in clinical research
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Who presides over the governing body of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)?
A. The Prime Minister of India
B. The Union Health Minister
C. The Chief Scientist
D. The President of India
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