Science Talent Hunt plans by Ministry of Science and Technology

Ministry of science and technology plans to attract talent to study and careers with science through larger investment into science. This was stated by the Minister of Science and Technology, Shri Kapil Sibal at a Press Conference here today. The Minister said that various schemes are in pipeline to generate enthusiasm among young students and creating innovative experiences with science i.e. rubbing shoulders with science icons of national and international fame. The Secretary of Science and Technology, Dr. T. Ramasamy gave a presentation outlining various schemes and action plans for efficient talent supply chain management for faster all inclusive growth.

The Minister also disclosed that International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), New Delhi has developed technology for production of unique virus specific designer recombinant antigens for Dengue and Hepatitis C virus. The Minister said that so far these antigens had to be imported at exorbitant costs and of unsure quality. The technology has been developed with the financial support from Department of Biotechnology and transferred to Tulip Group of Companies based at Goa.

Both these diseases are diagnosed based on immunodiagnostic principles wherein antibodies to the corresponding virus (Anti-HCV antibodies in case of HCV infection) and (Anti-Dengue antibodies in case of Dengue infection) react in the test with the corresponding recombinant antigens to produce a visually readable signal. Based on the presence and absence of this signal, a patient can be classified as being sero positive or sero negative for the corresponding infections. The uniqueness of the kit lies in the fact that it will not test false positive. For these tests to be manufactured, it is imperative that recombinant (genetically engineered) Dengue antigens and Hepatitis C antigens are available to be employed in the test systems.

Hepatitis C Infection is a viral disease of the liver caused by the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). The detection and diagnosis of HCV infection is critical from the point of view of patient safety in transfusion medicine as well as from the point of view of management of the infected patients. A large number of patients infected with the HCV proceed to HCC (Hepato cellular carcinomas) and cirrhosis of the liver.

On the other hand, Dengue infections, one of the emerging infectious diseases has reached epidemic proportions globally and has also caused significant mortality and morbidity in India.

Early diagnosis of Dengue and Hepatitis C infections are critical for screening, patient management and appropriate therapeutic interventions.

Source : Press Information Bureau
Date : January 12, 2007