Diagnostic Virology
The Diagnostic Virology Group, located in the Pashan campus of ICMR-National Institute of Virology, was established in 2014 and serves as the Resource Centre for Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories network (VRDLs) in India. In this capability, the Group aims to provide scientific, technical support to the VRDLs, conduct regular hands on training programs for scientific as well as technical staff from these laboratories. Reagent supply including kits, reference material (positive controls) for viral diagnosis by serological and molecular tests, conduct Quality Control/Quality Assurance and External Quality Assurance programs for serological and molecular tests are among the mandate of this group. The Group serves as the Apex Laboratory for Zika Diagnosis in the country, and coordinates the Zika surveillance activities in the network of 132 laboratories trained in laboratory diagnosis of Zika, located across the country. In addition, the Group also pursues basic and applied research on areas including viral pathogenesis (especially of Zika) and development of novel serodiagnostic reagents (Monoclonal antibodies)/assays on major human pathogens including SARS-CoV-2, Zika, Nipah, Kyasanur Forest Disease, Measles etc. The group also involved in collaborative efforts on SARS CoV-2 Vaccine development and vaccine efficacy testing by Neutralization assays.
