- Blood Test for Breast Cancer Detection Developed by CSIR-CCMB and RCC
The CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) and the Regional Cancer Centre (RCC), Thiruvananthapuram, have developed a revolutionary, cost-effective, and non-invasive method to detect breast cancer using a single drop of blood. By analyzing microRNA (miRNA) signatures in hundreds of cancer samples, researchers identified 439 miRNAs associated with invasive breast cancer, with 107 of these serving as potential biomarkers for various types and stages of the disease. - Enhanced CRISPR-Cas9 Tool for Precision Genome Editing
The CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (CSIR-IGIB) and LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI), in collaboration with partners, have developed a cutting-edge, enhanced CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing system. This advanced system, based on a refined version of the FnCas9 protein from Francisella novicida (enFnCas9), ensures precise gene editing with no detectable off-target effects. The enFnCas9-based tool demonstrates high efficiency and safety, paving the way for therapeutic applications to address genetic disorders in the Indian population. This innovation represents a significant leap toward clinical applications and regulatory approvals for gene correction technologies. - Promising SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Candidate by CSIR-IMTECH
CSIR-Institute of Microbial Technology (CSIR-IMTECH), Chandigarh, in partnership with the Centre for Infectious Disease Research (CIDR) at IISc Bengaluru and the National Institute of Immunology (NII), New Delhi, has developed a protein subunit-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate named IMT-CVAX. As reported by medicalbuyer, this engineered vaccine, designed with a trimeric spike protein antigen, has shown “near-complete protection” in preclinical trials involving mice and hamsters. IMT-CVAX generates robust immune responses, is compatible with standard refrigeration for storage, and supports large-scale production, making it an ideal candidate for mass immunization. Internationally patented, this vaccine holds potential for long-term immunity against future SARS-CoV-2 variants.