ICMR greenlights Rs 6.2 crore research project on kidney diseases in Srikakulam
The research aims to identify individuals at risk of developing kidney ailments within the next one to two years and ensure early medical intervention
By - Newsmeter Network
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Amaravati: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) approved a Rs 6.2 crore research project on kidney ailments in Srikakulam.
On Wednesday, Health Minister Satyakumar Yadav announced that ICMR has approved a major research project to study the causes of widespread kidney diseases in Srikakulam district. The project, titled the Srikakulam Kidney Research Project, will be completed over three years with an ICMR grant of Rs 6.2 crore.
Research to identify individuals at risk
The Minister said the approval followed discussions held under the direction of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and expressed satisfaction that the ICMR’s Department of Health Research had agreed to take up the study.
The research aims to identify individuals at risk of developing kidney ailments within the next one to two years and ensure early medical intervention. The findings are expected to help formulate targeted measures for the severely affected Uddanam region. Research activities will begin shortly, he added.
Advanced testing, including RNA sequencing
The project was approved based on proposals submitted by Prof G Prasad, Head of Nephrology at Andhra Medical College (AMC), under the guidance of senior nephrologist and former NTR Health University Vice-Chancellor Dr Raviraj. As part of the study, blood and urine samples will be scientifically collected from residents above the age of 18 in Uddanam.
For the first time, urine biomarker testing will be introduced to accurately predict the likelihood of kidney disease within the next two years.
RNA sequencing-based genetic tests
New drugs and treatment protocols are now available, which will help initiate timely preventive steps, including dialysis or kidney transplantation, Dr Raviraj said. He added that RNA sequencing-based genetic tests will also be conducted to determine whether individuals have a hereditary predisposition.
Citing previous studies, he noted that nearly 18 per cent of people in Uddanam show abnormal kidney function—an occurrence “unmatched anywhere else in the world.”
Special ICMR laboratory coming up at AMC
A dedicated laboratory will be set up at Andhra Medical College to handle blood and urine testing for the project.
The ICMR will supply all necessary equipment and appoint new technicians and research experts. Funding will be released in phases: Rs 3.04 crore in the first year, Rs 1.75 crore in the second year, and Rs 1.21 crore in the third year.
