The Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has proposed to set up a 600 MHz modern biomedical magnetic resonance micro-imaging and spectroscopy facility along with a medical biotechnology centre with an investment of about Rs 60-80 crore. The two facilities are in addition to the already initiated Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species. All the three new facilities are expected to be commissioned next year, said Dr Lalji Singh, director, CCMB.

The new research centres, which would be located in Hyderabad, will help in conducting investigations in biological systems in non-invasive methods, finding cure for diseases such as TB, AIDS and Hepatitis and conserve endangered lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards and bird species respectively, the CCMB director added.

The micro-imaging and spectroscopy method enables non-invasive monitoring of disease progression and the high resolution MR spectroscopy would make it possible to study drug target interactions and to monitor the drug response at metabolic, physiological and cellular levels.

The facility, which is to be commissioned within the current financial year, is believed to be a significant step in reducing the number of animals used in the pre-clinical trials.

Dr Lalji informed that the institute was also establishing a first of its kind medical biotechnology centre with an investment of about Rs 60-80 crore. This centre will work towards finding cure for diseases such as TB, AIDS and Hepatitis and will be designated as Annex II.

Work on Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) is also in advanced stage. The project is designed to help conserve endangered lions, tigers, cheetahs, leopards and bird species. The scientists have already developed a semen cryobank of tigers and lions. Currently, facilities for IVF, artificial insemination and molecular breeding are being set up. CCMB has already started wildlife identification services.