Scientists at the Raman Research Institute (RRI) have created a low-cost electro-fluidic device that helps in the early screening of Sickle Cell Disease, improving access to timely diagnosis.
- Â SCD: Sickle Cell Disease is a hereditary blood disorder caused by abnormal hemoglobin (hemoglobin S), which deforms red blood cells into a sickle shape. These misshapen cells block blood flow, reduce oxygen delivery, and cause complications like pain, infections, organ damage, and chronic anemia.
- Cause and Inheritance: The disease results from inheriting two defective sickle cell genes (one from each parent). Those with only one gene have the “sickle cell trait,” usually showing no symptoms but capable of passing the gene to their children.
- Symptoms and Treatment: Early signs include fatigue, jaundice, and swollen limbs. Advanced stages can lead to severe pain, infections, and organ failure. While bone marrow transplants can offer a cure, newer options like gene therapy are emerging—with the UK being the first to approve a gene therapy treatment for SCD.