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What is the ‘Feluda’ test for Covid-19?
Feluda is the acronym for FNCAS9 Editor Linked Uniform Detection Assay.
- It is an accurate and low-cost paper-based test strip to detect Covid-19 and can deliver a result in 45 minutes.
- It has been approved for commercial launch by the Drugs Controller General of India.
- Developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Tata Group.
How it works?
It uses indigenously developed CRISPR gene-editing technology to identify and target the genetic material of SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes Covid-19.
Significance:
- According to CSIR, the test matches accuracy levels of RT-PCR tests.
- It has a quicker turnaround time and requires less expensive equipment.
- ‘Feluda’ is also the world’s first diagnostic test to deploy a specially adapted Cas9 protein to successfully detect the virus.
InstaLinks:
Prelims Link:
- What is Feluda test?
- What is CRISPR technology?
- What is RT-PCR test?
- Other tests related to Covid-19.
Mains Link:
What is Feluda Test for COVID-19? How is it carried out? Discuss.
Sources: the Hindu.
