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Even as the incidence of TB has not declined significantly in spite of several initiatives by the government, especially in the North Eastern Region (NER) of the country, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) is embarking on a research programme in a consortium mode on MDR-TB in the NER with focus on genomics driven intervention approaches.
The broad areas of this joint research programme include, Mapping hot-spots of TB and MDR/XDR-TB in NER by whole genome sequencing of mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates (this will include development/validation of media/device for cold chain transport of TB isolates across NER and other parts of the country); Population genetic studies to delineate predisposing factors associated with TB/MDR-TB/XDR-TB, including pharmacogenomics of anti-TB drugs; Repurposing studies on existing drugs against other diseases for their anti-TB activity. Relook into critical concentrations of drugs that define sensitive and resistant M.tuberculosis strains; Development/validation of new tools for diagnosis of TB and drug resistant TB and non-tuberculous mycobacterium (NTM), creation of infrastructure facility in NER; and Awareness programme on NTMs and paragonimiasis through training/seminar/workshop/health camps.
Researchers from universities, institutes, colleges, hospitals, health departments and NGOs having experience in these areas can participate in this research programme.
DBT's initiative in this regard is significant as tuberculosis is one of the India's major health problems. In spite of the commendable performance of National TB Control Programme, the incidence of TB has not declined significantly. With the emergence of MDR-TB, a different set of challenges and problems in the public health programme has set in. These challenges are even more daunting in the Northeast India, underlining the need to develop innovative intervention approaches. Due to varied geographical and ethnic diversity of North Eastern region of India, the genetic make-up, transmission dynamics, virulence and drug resistance patterns of mycobacterium strains circulating in this region need to be studied in depth so as to find ways to mitigate the TB situation. DBT has taken up the initiative to address various scientific and societal issues of MDR-TB in NER and devise a long-term plan for disease management.
The DBT has invited proposals for evolving a comprehensive programme in consortium mode, covering innovative genomics driven R&D projects, training workshops, in mycobacteriology, and societal awareness campaigns. Interested scientists and NGOs from NER and other parts of the country working in this area of tuberculosis and MDR-TB are encouraged to submit research proposals on one or two of the broad lines of investigations. A research and development (R&D) programme (in consortium mode) is expected to be evolved and submitted to DBT for funding keeping in mind the good quality of scientific work and for improving existing or devising novel intervention strategies for disease control. All proposals have to be collaborative proposals with NER labs being the major thrust of the programme. More than 50 per cent of budget of each project to be earmarked to the NER participating institutions.
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