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During the pandemic, Syngene stepped up its efforts to fight COVID-19 by redirecting its scientific and technical capabilities in COVID-19-related areas. The aim was to help the Indian government find ways to combat the spread of the virus.
We set up a COVID-19 testing laboratory at our Bengaluru campus using RT-PCR technology. We also started screening samples to support the work of the local authorities. To read our press release, click here.
As on August 31, 2020, we had tested over 50,000 samples.
Watch: How Syngene conducts RT-PCR testing
Syngene tied up with the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology to develop and validate a high throughput assay using deep sequencing to ensure the effectiveness of epidemiological surveillance in India. This model can take 5,000 to 25,000 samples in one run in next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms such as NextSeq and NovaSeq. This method is also 5% less expensive than existing RT-PCR methods.
Recognizing the need to improve first-generation assays and protocols, Syngene developed the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test kits. ELISA tests measure antibody levels at relatively higher throughput and lower cost per reaction compared to RTP-CR tests.
Syngene also entered into a collaboration with HiMedia Laboratories, a bioscience company, for the commercialization of the ELISA Test kits. HiMedia went on to manufacture the kits at its facility in Mumbai and distribute it across India.
To read our press release, click here.
Proactive testing is a critical factor in restraining the spread of viral infections. Identifying positive cases early on and enabling their isolation makes it possible to restrict further transmission. Testing also provides the basis for identifying primary contacts of an infected person to prevent further spreading of the infection. Syngene undertook proactive testing at strategic intervals both in its workforce and at the community level to help arrest the spread of the virus.
