I.A.N.S.

Scientists have developed a microchip based on diagnostic methods for early intervention for infectious eye diseases and glaucoma, especially in newborns. Announced at the 93rd Indian Science Congress, this is part of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (C.S.I.R.) led New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative.

D.Yogeswara Rao, head of the Technology Networking and Business Development Division, C.S.I.R., said that a large number of clinical results have shown good results especially that the microchip can detect any eye infection within two hours – thus preventing its spread and stopping permanent damage to the vision. This breakthrough will go a long way in providing timely treatment and reducing cases of blindness in India, especially in villages.

Mr. Rao added that the trials and validation of the technology were currently under way. He was confident that the microchip to detect eye infections will be available to doctors by June 2006.

In the case of glaucoma, trials on about 2,000 cases have been carried out. Further trials were on and the chip should be available for sale by the year end.