Bangalore-based eye hospital Narayana Nethralaya formed a joint venture called ‘Multi-omics Diagnostics Lab’ for genomic testing with MedGenome, a part of Chennai-based SciGenom for a combined investment of $ 5 million (Rs 30 crores).
The new genetic testing lab will cover genetics, gene testing, whole genome sequencing, gene expression microarrays, proteomics and immunochemistry. Apart from this, there is an operational flow cytometry facility for research as well as diagnostic evaluation of blood markers.
The announcement was made by Sam Santhosh, Chairman, MedGenome, Dr K Bhujang Shetty, Chairman & Managing Director, Narayana Nathralaya, Dr Rohit Shetty, Vice-Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya, Dr V Ramprasad, COO, MedGenome and Dr Arka Ghosh, molecular biologist.
Speaking at the event Santosh said, “MedGenome will have a panel to test cancers, cardiovascular diseases, eye diseases, neonatal disorders etc.” Commenting on the partnership, Dr K Bhujang Shetty, Chairman & MD, Narayana Nethralaya, remarked, “This is a landmark achievement for us as well as the medical fraternity, as we are taking a big leap in addressing the health issues at the fundamental level through advanced tests.”
“This will add a much-needed edge over any other hospital system in the country in terms of translating benchtop research to the patient’s bedside in the hands of the physician and surgeons. Alongside these diagnostic testing modalities, this initiative also aims to develop in-house tests/kits for genes or diseases specific to the Indian population with the help of the research groups/clinicians on campus and around the country,” said Dr V Ramprasad, COO, MedGenome.
Narayana Nethralaya and MedGenome are also reportedly collaborating to establish a proteomic facility that will have capability to analyse small molecules/metabolites/aminoacids/proteins for diagnostics of metabolic syndromes/IEMs as well as perform whole proteome analysis from any source. “Once functional, this will be the first set-up to provide genomic testing and personalised medicine, gene therapy for eye disorders in India,” said Dr Rohit Shetty, Vice-Chairman, Narayana Nethralaya.
EH News Bureau