What’s in the news?
Researchers at SCTIMST (Thiruvananthapuram) have developed a cost-effective real-time LAMP (rt-LAMP) assay for the early detection of Tuberculosis (TB).
It offers high sensitivity, specificity, speed, and affordability compared to conventional tests.
Key Features of the rt-LAMP Assay:
Type: Molecular test (like GeneXpert and Truenat)
Detection Limit: Can detect TB DNA at just 10 copies/μL
Working Temperature: Single temperature (unlike RT-PCR’s 3)
Detection Time: Results in 10–20 minutes
Fluorescent Dye Used: Syto 16 (non-inhibitory)
Primers Used: 6 primers (vs 2 in RT-PCR) → High specificity
Advantages:
Can be used in existing RT-PCR machines (converted to single-temp mode)
Enables high throughput (up to 384 samples per run)
No probe required → Lower cost
Open platform → Greater accessibility for labs
Status:
CDSCO approved
ICMR validation underway
Evaluated by WHO Health Technology Access Pool
Licensed to industry
Contextual Background:
TB Diagnosis in India (2023):
79% cases still diagnosed using sputum smear microscopy
Only 21% with molecular assays
Molecular testing facilities rose from 5,090 (2022) to 6,496 (2023)
Goal under National Strategic Plan (2017–2025):
Reduce dependence on smear microscopy and shift to rapid molecular diagnostics.
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