Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD) on Friday handed over one RNA Extractor Kit and one Real-Time- PCR (polymerase chain reaction) instrument to RIMS.
IBSD is a national Institute under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India located near Imphal.
The kits and instrument were handed over the Dr Ch Arunkumar, Medical Superintendent of RIMS at Takyelpat office of the IBSD in Imphal.
“The instrument was spared from IBSD on the request of the authority of RIMS to supplement the existing functioning of VRDL (Virus research and diagnostic laboratory) works in RIMS for detecting the COVID-19 in the backdrop of likely return of many stranded persons of Manipur batch by batch,” a release stated.
Real-time- PCR is one of the most accurate laboratory methods for detecting, tracking, and studying the Coronavirus. Each COVID-19 test requires one RNA extraction kit without which RT-PCR test cannot happen under the current testing methods, it added.
The initiative of sparing the said equipment along with consumables was taken up under the guidance of Director Prof Pulok K Mukherjee of IBSD.
He congratulated the whole team of the RIMS who are doing yeoman’s service in the tough time of fighting the pandemic.
IBSD team is ready to extend any possible help with the available resources at the institute for fighting the COVID-19.
The authority of the institute would like to appreciate the commendable services provided by the RIMS during this global health crisis.
Earlier on request from the authority of JNIMS, a Real-Time PCR instrument along with consumables was provided from IBSD to supplement the existing functioning of VRDL, Microbiology, Department of JNIMS in detecting COVID-19.
IBSD was established in 2001 with an objective to find scientific ways for the sustainable uses of the bioresources and its protection to stop the depletion of the rich biodiversity in the northeast.
It has its centres at Shillong, Gangtok and Aizawl as well.