LOLC Advanced Technologies has collaborated with the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC) through Ceylon Nano Diagnostics Pvt Ltd. (CNDL) to introduce the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) method for the first time in Sri Lanka to curb the limitations of the standard coronavirus detection method approved by the World Health Organization which is RT-qPCR method. 

This novel process is similar to the conventional PCR tests, with the exception that the nucleic acid amplification occurs at one temperature. As a result, certain mandatory equipment for PCR such as a thermal cycler is not required. This method of detection being quicker, easier to use, and more cost effective than RT-qPCR tests in terms of diagnosis, has many advantages such as wide pH and temperature ranges that are acceptable, the ability of the assay to accept non-processed samples, and the flexibility of the readout methods, all the while maintaining specificity and sensitivity that is about equal to that of the PCR tests. Ceylon Nano Diagnostics Pvt Ltd. is a Joint Venture (JV) company established to produce RT-LAMP kits and other research and development initiatives related to the molecular diagnostics field. LOLC Advanced Technologies is the management entity for CNDL on behalf of Browns Pharma Limited’s shareholding of 50 percent while SLINTEC bears the balance 50 percent shareholding.

Commenting about the collaboration, LOLC Group, Deputy Chairman Ishara Nanayakkara said, “At LOLC, our increasing investments in science, research and technology derives from our passion and thirst for knowledge and scientific innovation which is centered on local value addition. 

I am pleased to note that this collaboration has done just that and especially at a crucial stage of an evolving pandemic. As a Group, we are committed to continue to work and invest in such value additions whilst providing local scientists and researchers the opportunity and platform to explore and make use of theirskills and knowledge”. 

LOLC Advanced Technologies (Pvt) Ltd. is the research arm of the LOLC Group. The company provides advanced technological consultation support to companies under the LOLC umbrella in the fields of precision agriculture, process improvements for cinnamon agronomy and value addition, new product development in plant nutrition and agro-chemistry.