Why is it in the News?

The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru recently announced that it has developed a new platform that makes it easier and cheaper to study single cells.

About the OptiDrop Platform:

• The OptiDrop platform is an innovative microfluidic chip-based technology that simplifies and reduces the cost of single-cell analysis.
• Developed by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP) in Bengaluru, India, OptiDrop enables precise and cost-effective analysis of single cells encapsulated in droplets.
• The platform boasts unique features, including live data visualization, a smaller data footprint, and a 'closed' system design that prevents external contamination.
• OptiDrop has potential applications in diagnostics, therapeutics, agriculture, and animal health, making it a versatile tool for various research areas.

Applications:

• This cutting-edge technology holds vast potential across diverse fields including diagnostics, therapeutics, agriculture, and animal health. Its versatility enables:
  • Precise examination of individual cells during drug screening processes.
  • Environment control for monitoring and addressing water contamination.
  • Identification and sorting of CAR-T cells in immuno-oncotherapeutics.
  • Selection of CRISPR-modified single cells.
  • Identifying high-efficiency clones in single-cell genomics paves the way for advancements in personalized medicine and beyond.
• This platform is a testament to the potential of combining microfluidic technologies with advanced optical sensing techniques, paving the way for more efficient and cost-effective single-cell analysis.

What is the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP)?

• The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms, or C-CAMP, was conceptualized by the Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India in 2009 as an enabler or catalyst of cutting-edge research and innovation in the life sciences.
• C-CAMP has established itself as a major platform technology base, industry-oriented innovation hub, and incubator unit for life science research.
• With state-of-the-art technology platforms, a rich academic environment, and networks of business and industry-related resources, it encourages researchers and entrepreneurs to develop scientific tools and solutions for socially relevant problems.
• It is an institution with the core mandate of enabling cutting-edge life science research and innovation.