Crypto Relief supports IISc to establish Genome Sequencing Lab

Crypto Relief has partnered with the Indian Institute of Science (IISC) and contributed INR 5 crores to support COVID-19 research at the Centre for Infectious Disease Research.

Crypto Relief granted funds will be utilised for establishing a Viral Genome sequencing lab, expansion of Viral BSL3 facility and supporting necessary manpower and consumables.

The Viral genome sequencing lab, once functional, will focus on SARS-Cov-2 virus studies. These include continuous surveillance and tracking of the virus mutants and variants. The expanded Viral BSL3 will support research on assessment of the virulence, and cross-reactive immunity of SARS-CoV-2 mutants and variants of concern in cell culture and animal models.

IISc’s Centre for Infectious Disease Research has been actively engaged in COVID-19 RT PCR diagnosis in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka and the Government of India. So far over 100,000 samples collected by government agencies have been tested and reported to ICMR.

"The new Viral genome sequencing facility will be a great addition to the centre and will enhance the ongoing efforts to better understand SARS-Cov-2 virus evolution and its impact on our health," said Dr Ram Turaga - IISc Bengaluru.

"The genome sequencing lab will play a major role in terms of understanding the Covid-19 Virus and the mutations. This partnership will help the leading institute of India expand the state-of research facilities," said Sandeep Nailwal - Crypto Relief

The proposed funding requested for the project is spread over 3 years. The proposed activities are shown below.

About Indian Institute of Science

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) was established in 1909 by a visionary partnership between the industrialist Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, the Mysore royal family and the Government of India. Over the last 111 years, IISc has become India’s premier institute for advanced scientific and technological research and education. IISc’s reputation and pre-eminence ensure that it attracts the best young faculty members trained in the best laboratories around the world. In 2018, IISc was selected as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) by the Government of India, and it consistently figures among the top Indian institutions in world university rankings.

For more information, visit the website.

Pictures from the Centre for Infectious Disease Research