Institute of Life Sciences Startup Revolutionizes DNA Study with Affordable Equipment
In a significant breakthrough for molecular biology education in India, the Institute of Life Sciences (ILS) in Bhubaneswar has facilitated the launch of an innovative, cost-effective electrophoresis system designed specifically for students and researchers. The new technology, developed by startup RNA Biotech, promises to democratize access to DNA structure analysis, which has traditionally been hindered by prohibitively expensive equipment.
GelGenius: Integrating Five Systems into One Affordable Machine
RNA Biotech, spearheaded by ILS scientist Amaresh Panda, has created the first-of-its-kind integrated agarose gel electrophoresis system named 'GelGenius'. This groundbreaking invention consolidates features from five separate laboratory systems into a single, streamlined device while cutting costs by approximately half compared to existing market alternatives.
"So far, no company has successfully built an integrated machine that combines the functionality of five distinct systems into one cohesive unit," explained Panda. "The most remarkable aspect is that GelGenius costs only half the price of conventional machines available in the market, making advanced molecular biology accessible to institutions with limited budgets."
Overcoming Traditional Limitations
Traditional electrophoresis processes have long been characterized as fragmented and space-intensive, requiring researchers to manage multiple components including microwaves, external power supplies, bulky tanks, and hazardous UV transilluminators. This complexity not only increased costs but also created logistical challenges for educational institutions.
"Our GelGenius fundamentally disrupts conventional methodology by condensing the entire workflow into a single, efficient machine," Panda emphasized. "It seamlessly integrates five major laboratory functions, eliminating the need for multiple devices and significantly reducing both physical space requirements and operational complexity."
Mission to Democratize Molecular Biology Education
The development team's primary objective was to dismantle the financial and logistical barriers that have historically kept molecular biology out of reach for many students and institutions across India.
"Our goal was clear: to ensure that a student's ability to perform DNA analysis is not dictated by their institution's budget constraints," stated Panda. "With GelGenius, we are making world-class research tools accessible to every classroom in India, empowering the next generation of scientists with technology designed and built in their own country."
The system has been specifically engineered to address the needs of schools, colleges, and universities operating with limited resources, prioritizing both user safety and operational efficiency while conserving valuable laboratory space.
Institutional Support and Future Prospects
ILS director Debasis Dash highlighted the institution's commitment to innovation and practical application of research. "Designing and prototyping innovative solutions is one of our core strengths," Dash noted. "We plan to collaborate with other industries to further refine production processes and potentially reduce costs even more, ensuring maximum accessibility for educational institutions nationwide."
Manish Hota, Chief Scientific Officer of RNA Biotech, reinforced the startup's mission: "We are empowering the next generation of Indian scientists with tools conceived, designed, and manufactured within our own ecosystem. This represents a significant step toward self-reliance in scientific education and research infrastructure."
Official Unveiling and Academic Endorsement
The GelGenius system was formally unveiled at the DBT-ILS bioincubator in Bhubaneswar, with notable academic leaders in attendance including:
- Jagneshwar Dandapat, Vice-Chancellor of Utkal University
- Luna Samant, PG Council Chairman of Ravenshaw University
- Sashikanta Dash, Deputy Director of the Science and Technology Department
This collective presence underscores the academic community's recognition of the system's potential to transform molecular biology education across India's educational landscape.
