Amid the prevailing influence of Covid-19, medtech startups in Bengaluru are spearheading the creation of portable testing kits designed to provide users with prompt and accurate results for tests that would typically demand hours or even days.
The evolution of point-of-care (POC) testing, a concept that brings testing closer to the patient and away from labs, is gaining momentum. Bengaluru has emerged as a prominent hub for innovating these solutions, which range from self-testing products akin to glucometers to portable devices like Truenat that clinics and labs can employ for swift testing.
Several companies are developing tests that can measure parameters such as thyroid levels, electrolyte levels (e.g., blood sodium), etc., to aid patients with chronic conditions. Rapid tests are also in progress for infectious diseases like dengue, TB, and hepatitis, serving preventive checkups and community screening purposes.
The city presently houses nearly 20 startups, in addition to conventional companies, dedicated to crafting POC testing products or their components. Dr. Vijay Chandru, co-founder of CrisprBits, indicated that the market is poised for growth, with numerous products slated for launch from the coming year onward.
CrisprBits is harnessing CRISPR gene-editing technology to construct a testing platform capable of detecting sickle cell anemia and six pathogens, including salmonella and rotavirus. These tests are undergoing validation studies and are projected to hit the market by next June, following the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) approvals.
MolBio Diagnostics’ Trunat platform, initially developed for TB but widely adopted during the pandemic, offers over 45 tests. These encompass rapid assessments for multidrug-resistant TB, HIV viral load, dengue, and HbA1c tests for diabetes. The platform is operational in 7,000 locations across India, encompassing BBMP’s Primary Health Centres and the Jayadeva Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences and Research. Further tests, including electrolyte level measurement, are currently in development.
