- SFG FRC 2027 | Program starts from 15th Dec. 2026 | Admissions open for Tranche-1 Entrance Test till 25th Oct. 2026 Click Here to know more →
- Prelims Test Series (PTS) for Prelims 2027 starts 11th Oct. 2026 Click Here to know more →
- [Pre-order] Ethics Redbook 3rd Edition: Delivery starts from 21st October onwards Click Here to Read More →
- 21 Sept. | GS Advance Program (GSAP) for UPSC 2027 Mains starts from 11th Oct. Click Here to Read More →
What is the News?
The National Environmental Engineering Research Institute(NEERI) has transferred the indigenously-developed saline gargle RT-PCR technique to the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises(MSME).
About Saline gargle RT-PCR Technique
Saline gargle RT-PCR is a technique that will be used for testing Covid-19 samples.
Developed by: National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI).
How does it work?
The method is non-invasive and simple enough for a patient to collect his/her own sample for testing. A simple collection tube filled with a saline solution is used. The patient gargles with the solution and rinses it inside the tube.
The sample is then taken to a laboratory where it is kept at room temperature in a special buffer solution prepared by NEERI. An RNA template is produced when this solution is heated, which is further processed for the RT-PCR test.
Benefits of the Technique
The technique is simple, fast, cost-effective, patient-friendly and comfortable.
It provides instant test results and is well-suited for rural areas with poor connectivity, given its minimal infrastructure requirements.
Source: This post is based on the article “Saline gargle RT-PCR test tech transferred to MSME Ministry” published in Business Standard on 13th September 2021.
