RGCB Secures ₹7 Cr for Blood-Based Cervical Cancer Test
Researchers at the BRIC–Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology (RGCB) in Thiruvananthapuram have secured a ₹7 crore grant. Specifically, this funding supports the development of an innovative cervical cancer detection device. This diagnostic platform aims to detect early malignancy using a simple blood draw. Consequently, the technology could reduce dependence on invasive speculum examinations and cervical biopsies.
Advancing the Cervical Cancer Detection Device with Nanopore Tech
Cervical cancer remains a major public health challenge across India. However, traditional screening methods often require specialized clinics, trained cytotechnicians, and invasive pelvic exams. Therefore, many women in low-resource settings miss timely screening opportunities.
To address this disparity, the RGCB team is developing an automated testing platform. Specifically, the proposed device identifies circulating piRNA-based biomarkers in patient blood. The system then analyzes these molecular signatures using sensitive nanopore technology. Furthermore, the automated setup operates with minimal user training. As a result, primary care centers could soon conduct reliable point-of-care oncologic screening.
Strategic Collaborations and Grant Selection
The project secured backing under the prestigious MAHA MedTech Mission. Notably, this mission represents a joint venture by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and the Gates Foundation. Over 1,000 research proposals competed for this targeted initiative. However, evaluators selected only 33 high-impact projects nationwide.
In addition, RGCB is collaborating with two vital industry partners. These partners include Thiruvananthapuram-based IndZita Biotech Private Limited and Maharashtra-based Karkinos Healthcare Private Limited. Together, these entities will translate laboratory innovation into a scalable medical diagnostic product.
Preclinical Milestones and Next Steps
The research team has already achieved crucial preclinical benchmarks. For instance, the investigators have secured patent protection for this diagnostic technology. Moreover, they successfully validated the assay in cell cultures and animal models. A preliminary laboratory study using human blood samples also demonstrated positive results.
Currently, the engineering team is assembling a functional hardware prototype. Nevertheless, rigorous clinical validation across diverse patient cohorts remains necessary. Following clinical trials, the investigators will seek statutory regulatory approvals from Indian authorities before launching routine clinical screening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How does the new blood test detect cervical cancer?
The device detects circulating piRNA-based biomarkers in blood samples. Furthermore, it analyzes these molecular markers through sensitive nanopore technology.
Q2: Who is funding and supporting this diagnostic project?
The MAHA MedTech Mission funds the ₹7 crore project. In addition, the initiative is jointly backed by ANRF, ICMR, and the Gates Foundation.
Q3: When will this diagnostic device be available for routine patient care?
The technology is currently at the prototype stage. Consequently, extensive multicenter clinical trials and regulatory approvals must occur before routine commercial deployment.
References
- RGCB gets ₹7cr grant to develop blood-based cervical cancer detection device - ETHealthworld
- RGCB researchers receive ₹7 crore grant to develop rapid, biopsy-free cervical cancer detection technology - The Hindu
- RGCB Secures ₹7 Crore Grant for Biopsy-Free Cervical Cancer Detection - Medical Dialogues
