SCTIMST launched Agappe Chitra Magna

A magnetic nanoparticle-based RNA extraction kit for use during testing for detection of COVID-19 named “Agappe Chitra Magna” has launched by Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology (SCTIMST).

The RNA extraction kit was developed by SCTIMST along with Agappe Diagnostics Ltd, an in vitro diagnostics manufacturing company based in Cochin.

Agappe Chitra Magna has been independently validated at the National Institute of Virology for COVID-19 RNA isolation. It is approved by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

The kit can be used for RNA extraction for RT-LAMP, RT-qPCR, RT-PCR, and other isothermal and PCR based protocols for the detection of SARS-COV-2.

The kit uses innovative technology for isolating RNA using magnetic nanoparticles to capture the RNA from the patient sample.

The cost of Agappe Chitra Magna is Rs.150, whereas the imported costs around Rs 300.