Tag: Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University Researchers have developed an electrochemical strip Test for the amount of THC which is the psychoactive agent in Cannabis. A highly sensitive, non-laboratory test kit yields fast, accurate results, helps ensure consumers’ safety and reduces the risk of ingesting harmful substances.

After the unlocking of cannabis from narcotic drugs to be a controlled medicinal plant, cannabis has now been widely used in various products, including cooking and mixing in beverages, citing the various health benefits of cannabis.

But anything that has benefits can also have drawbacks. Cannabis contains more than 400 different substances, with the two most important substances that are often mentioned being CBD (Cannabidiol) for medicinal purposes, and THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), a substance that is harmful to the body, can affect the nervous system, cause intoxication, and hallucinations. What is most dangerous is that overconsumption and allergies to THC can be fatal. Therefore, the Announcement of the Ministry of Public Health stipulates that the amount of THC in food and beverages must not exceed 2%, otherwise it will be considered narcotics.

How will consumers know if cannabis products are free of harmful substances?

Dr. Sudkate Chaiyo, a researcher at the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Research, Chulalongkorn University, has developed an innovative “Rapid electrochemical strip test for THC amount” by adding to the knowledge on ATK test kit development that works with electrochemistry for the diagnosis and screening of COVID-19 produced by Thai people.

“Currently, the measurement of THC must be done in the laboratory with large instruments and the process is quite complicated. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the main agency that is responsible for the screening of THC substances in cannabis products. Therefore, we have developed an electrochemical strip test to allow consumers to initially check for THC themselves for more confidence and safety in consuming foods or beverages containing cannabis, Dr. Sudkate said.

Portable, easy-to-use THC test for measuring hazardous substances at the nanoscale

Dr. Sudkate said that although the chemical structure of CBD and THC in cannabis is quite similar, each strain of cannabis has a different CBD and THC amount. However, the electrochemical strip test for assessing the amount of THC is sensitive enough to accurately measure the THC value and is similar to the assay using the High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) technique, which is the standard method used to detect the amount of THC.

“This test serves as a sensor that quickly measures the amount of THC in a certain food or drink with a high detection sensitivity, even if only 1.3 ng/mL of THC is detected.”

Dr. Sudkhet revealed that the efficacy of the kit comes from the integration of two sciences: rapid measurement of the lateral flow immunoassay test strips and high sensitivity measurement of electrochemical techniques.

“The test kit uses the same principles as the COVID-19 ATK test, so it’s easy to use. Just mix the cannabis-infused food or drink with the solution specific to the test strip and drip 2 drops onto the test strip, then wait about 6 minutes to read the results from the smartphone connected to the device.”

Electrochemical test strip kits are portable, easy to use, and inexpensive (costing 20 baht each). Dr. Sudkate hopes for the test to be an alternative way to assess the amount of THC outside the laboratory. This will be suitable for users in the group that need to use cannabis products and staff who are responsible for monitoring and controlling the amount of THC in cannabis-infused products.

“This electrochemical strip test will help prevent people from accidentally consuming harmful substances, control the amount of cannabis to a safe level, and reduce the risk of accidents or harm to the body from THC,” Dr. Sudkate said.

This innovation received the Invention Award 2024 from the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT).

The Future of Strip Test — A Simple device to help with disease screening

Dr. Sudkate and the researchers from the Chula Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering continue to strive to develop a platform in the form of strip tests in conjunction with electrochemistry for medical use. Currently, the team is developing electrochemistry strip tests for venereal disease screening, a disease that Thai teenagers are at risk of developing and do not dare to consult a doctor. The team is also working on electrochemical strip test kits to screen for people at high risk of contracting Streptococcus Suis from eating raw pork, etc.

Entrepreneurs interested in co-developing electrochemical strip tests to screen THC content for commercial production can contact Dr. Sudkate Chaiyo, Chulalongkorn University Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering Research Institute, Tel. 0-2218-8056 E-mail: [email protected].

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/173973/

Sasin School of Management, Chulalongkorn University, held a press conference to launch the Sasin Impact Entrepreneurship Week 2024 (Sasin IEW) which took place June 19-23, 2024. The press conference featured a vision talk by 4 experts, highlighting the world-class activities in Sasin IEW, including student-level business competitions and Asia’s first GCEC “New Frontier: Bangkok Summit 2024” international academic conference hosted by Thailand.

At this press conference, Mr. Dibyendu Bose, Deputy Director for Strategy, Innovation, and Development of Sasin School of Management, informed us that “Sasin IEW is a gathering of entrepreneurs, investors, academics, policymakers, and the general public who wish to drive innovation and positive change for a sustainable future for everyone.” Mr. Lars Svensson, Director of the Sasin Sustainability & Entrepreneurship Center (SasinSEC), added, “The goal of Sasin IEW is to spark multilateral discussions on the role of entrepreneurs in driving positive impact. This is the first time that the three main activities in entrepreneurship have been integrated under the philosophy of sustainability.” In addition, the collaboration between Sasin, The Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC), and the Mechai Viravaidya Foundation was announced.

A warm-up discussion panel in preparation for Sasin IEW at the press conference on the topic of “Thailand Showcase” was joined by 4 experts, namely Mr. Lars Svensson from Sasin School of Management, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jittima Luckanagul, Acting Assistant to the President for International Affairs, Innovation and Global Engagement, Chulalongkorn University, Mr. Sukich Udindu, the first CEO of the Southeast Asia Ministers of Education Organization Regional Centre for Sufficiency Economy Philosophy for Sustainability (SEAMEO SEPS) and sustainability columnist at Daily News, and Mr. Vasu Srivibha, Chief Impact Officer at Sasin School of Management and Vice Chair of UN PRME Chapter ASEAN+ Chapter.

The main activities at Sasin Impact Entrepreneurship Week 2024: SasinIEW included:

1) The first GCEC conference in Asia under the theme “New Frontier: Bangkok Summit 2024” reflecting the concept of “Inclusive Entrepreneurship Driving Impact
2) Bangkok Business Challenge 2024 (BBC 2024), a global student startup competition organized by Sasin, which is the longest-running business project competition in Asia.
3) Family Enterprise Case Competition – Asia Pacific 2024 (FECC-AP 2024) with the purpose of finding student groups that excel in addressing family business challenges and analyzing strategies: The winners will participate in a global business plan competition in the United States next January. Sasin, the current world champion, has the honor of hosting this competition for the first time in Asia.

Three other forums will also be organized in the event:

– “Driving Inclusive Entrepreneurship Ecosystems for Impact: Journey to Success” is an exploration of the latest collaborative strategies and advancements related to the innovation ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs in Thailand and the region. The panel includes representatives from Knowledge Exchange for Innovation (KX) of King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, CMU STeP of Chiang Mai University, and CU Innovation Hub of Chulalongkorn University, along with the Social Enterprise Thailand Association, the National Innovation Agency, and the Aspen Network of Development Entrepreneurs (ANDE).
– “Navigating the Startup Path to Success: Insights from Investors and Enablers for Impact Entrepreneurs” dives deep into the challenges and sparks fundraising ideas for startups and social enterprises, as well as creates a networking space for new startups. The panelists are from various sectors, including social and agricultural entrepreneurs, business coaches, the Thai Startup Association, Yunus Center AIT, angel investors, and the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA).
– “Redefining Values for Impact Entrepreneurship with the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP)” is moderated by Mr. Vasu Srivibha, Chief Impact Officer at Sasin School of Management and Vice Chair of UN PRME Chapter ASEAN+ Chapter. The panelists include Mr. Sukich Udindu, former CEO of SEAMEO SEPS and sustainability columnist at Daily News, and Mr. Steve Young, honorary co-chair of Sasin Sustainability & Entrepreneurship Center. This forum will address the integration of the Sufficiency Economy philosophy to promote the balanced and inclusive growth of entrepreneurs, encouraging more positive impact.

For other interesting activities, please visit ww.facebook.com/sasinschoolofmanagement

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/174132/

On July 10, 2024, the Embassy of Spain in Thailand hosted a ceremony to sign a cooperation agreement between the Cervantes Institute and the Faculty of Arts at Chulalongkorn University to establish Aula Cervantes, a subsidiary of the Cervantes Institute. The agreement was signed by Mr. Javier Galván, Director of the Cervantes Institute in Manila, Philippines, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Suradech Chotiudompant, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University. The event was attended by numerous distinguished guests, including representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, delegates from Spanish-speaking countries in Thailand, and Spanish language faculty from both higher education and secondary levels. Additionally, on July 11, 2024, Mr. Javier Galván met with the Spanish language faculty to discuss the implementation plan.

The Cervantes Institute is a Spanish government agency dedicated to promoting the Spanish language and the culture of Spanish-speaking countries worldwide. Aula Cervantes is the first Institute and only branch of the Institute in Thailand. Negotiations to establish Aula Cervantes began more than five years ago, and it is expected to play a significant role in spreading the Spanish language and the culture of Spanish-speaking countries to a broader Thai audience.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/173667/

Chula Faculty of Allied Health Sciences has launched a ready-to-eat flourless rice innovation made from egg whites, branded “eggyday”. This product is low in calories, filled with good-quality protein, high in calcium, complete with dietary fibers, and free of gluten. It is suitable for health-conscious people trying to control their weight, the elderly, and those suffering from diabetes.

Rice is a staple food for Thai people and is always present at every meal. However, consuming too much rice can negatively affect health, leading to weight gain and high blood sugar levels, particularly for diabetic patients who must control their consumption of starch and sugar. Therefore, a research team from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University has developed “Egg White Rice” as a rice substitute product to provide an alternative for consumers.

“The research team has developed an alternative type of rice that can control the amount of nutrients by taking 100 % egg white protein through a production process that transforms the egg white protein structure into egg white rice that has the shape, taste, and texture of rice while still maintaining egg white complete nutritional value. It also must not have any negative impact on one’s health” Professor Dr. Sirichai Adisakwattana, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Head of the research project on egg white rice products, and Co-Founder of Thandee Innofood Co., Ltd. Startup, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University discusses the origin of this novel type of rice under the “eggyday” product name.

Becoming 100 % egg white rice

Prof. Dr. Sirichai explained that egg white rice is a product that imitates actual rice in terms of appearance texture and taste. Consumers will therefore not feel anything different from the rice they eat daily.

“We use Protein Transformation technology to transform egg whites into “egg white rice.” The important step is the gel-forming reaction between the gelling agent and the sodium solution encapsulating egg white protein, then shaped into long, slender, and rounded-end rice grains, imitating actual rice grains. The next process is where the rice grain shape is maintained and ready for sterilization at 121 degrees Celsius heat. The result is synthetic rice grains with a soft and chewy texture, no different from actual rice grains without starch or fat, with low calories but high in calcium and excellent in taste. Most importantly, the nutritional value of egg white protein is not diminished by the production process.” Prof. Dr. Sirichai described the production process.

With the use of this same technology, Prof. Dr. Sirichai is now planning to develop “100% Future Protein Rice” derived from soybeans and various types of beans to serve consumers looking for alternative proteins from plants.

Summary of the highlights of the egg white rice that has been awarded a gold medal

• Starch-free
• Low calories at only 20 kilocalories (Kcal): 100 grams/ pouch
• High-quality protein, strengthens the muscles
• High calcium, provides nourishment for the bones and teeth
• Complete dietary fiber works well for the digestive system
• Gluten-free, suitable for those who are allergic to gluten in food
• Can be stored for up to 18 months without the need for refrigeration. It makes use of scientific technology that heats up to 121 degrees Celsius to kill bacteria.
• Egg white rice products are packaged in packets and are convenient to eat and carry around. Just tear the packet open and eat it as steamed rice or cook it in your favorite way like fried rice or porridge.

“Based on these exceptional qualities, eggyday egg white rice is perfect for people with weight problems and those who have undergone stomach surgery due to obesity. It also works well for those health-conscious individuals and for the lifestyle of city dwellers who often do not have time to prepare their meals,” said Prof. Dr. Sirichai.

This is how eggyday – the 100% egg white rice came to be awarded the Bangkok International Intellectual Property Invention Innovation and Technology Exposition, an award that guarantees the quality of healthy alternative food products for consumers and patients alike who all want healthy options in their diet.

“eggyday” egg white rice is available at health food stores and leading department stores. It can also be ordered online via Facebook, Line@, TikTok, and Instagram: @eggyday.official or click link: https://lin.ee/8JN96sn

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/170052/

“A Quick and field-deployable CRISPR-Cas12a diagnostic kit for the DNA detection of poisonous plants containing aristolochic acid, the compound that caused nephropathy,” an innovation from the Center of Excellence in DNA Barcoding of Thai Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Chulalongkorn University, won the silver medal at “The 49th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva” held on April 17-21, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland.

The developer team includes Prof. Pol. Capt. Dr. Suchada Sukrong, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Prof. Dr. Sunchai Payungporn, Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Patcharawalai Whongsiri, and Mr. Chayapol Tungphatthong, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Chulalongkorn University.

”A Quick and field-deployable CRISPR-Cas12a diagnostic kit for the DNA detection of poisonous plants containing aristolochic acid, the compound that caused nephropathy” stemmed from the World Health Organization’s declaration of aristolochic acid as a carcinogen in humans, especially kidney cancer, and the Thai government’s ban on the use of all herbs containing aristolochic acid, including Krai-Krue herbal plant (Aristolochia pierei), a popular ingredient found in many traditional Thai medicine formulations. The Center of Excellence in DNA Barcoding of Thai Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Chulalongkorn University, has conducted a survey and found Krai-Krue herbal plant still in the market and aristolochic acid in several Thai traditional medicine formulas, which may cause adverse effects on consumers and lead to kidney failure or kidney cancer. Therefore, a rapid and field-deployable DNA test kit using CRISPR-Cas12a technology, named “AristoScan,” was developed to detect herb contamination.

The AristoScan is the world’s first diagnostic kit that detects the DNA of herbal plants containing aristolochic acid using CRISPR-Cas12a technology. It requires no complex tools and was designed to detect all families of herbal plants that have been reported to contain aristolochic acid, namely, Aristolochia, Thottea, Asarum, and Saruma. It can reduce the period of detection from days to only 30 minutes.

Moreover, the results can be observed with the naked eye. The test is highly specific, accurate, and fast It can be used to detect toxic plants or herbal formulas containing aristolochic acid components, which is beneficial for agencies overseeing herbal medicines, entrepreneurs, and the general public. Additionally, the research on the AristoScan has led to the development of a platform that can be adapted to create other types of DNA test kits, such as for detecting narcotic plants, poisonous plants, meat contamination in halal food, as well as infectious diseases in humans, animals, and plants.

For more stories, read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/171945/

Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the Government of Bhutan, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Institute of Asian Studies, cordially invites you to a special public talk on “Enlightened Leadership” by His Excellency Dasho Tshering Tobgay, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan. The event will take place on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 08:30 to 12:00 hrs. at the Chulalongkorn University Auditorium.

To register, please visit this link or scan the QR code on the event poster

The entire program will be conducted in English language and open to the public free of charge. Attendees are required to bring their national identification card or passport for registration.

Please note:

Temperature checks will be conducted before entering the auditorium.

Limited parking is available at the Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Building at the rate of 15 baht per hour.

For security reasons, Chulalongkorn University reserves the right to refuse admission.

We look forward to your participation in this forthcoming event.

Read more: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/169146/

Chulalongkorn University, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and academic partners, organized the Inclusive Society Platform Network Meeting titled Roundtable: What is inclusive society platform? “The Unheard Voices” and an exhibition of research on inclusive society. The event was held on April 4, 2024, at TK Hall, Sasin School of Management, Chulalongkorn University. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pannee Cheewinsiriwat, Chulalongkorn’s Assistant Vice President for Research Affairs, chaired the meeting, which focused on sustainable social development through diverse solutions to social challenges, collaborative efforts to innovate, and promotion of equality. Towards this end, a platform is needed for exchanges of experiences and in-depth information, allowing the government and the private sector to work together efficiently and leading to the solution of society’s problems, which are practical and aligned with operations in all sectors.

The Roundtable: What is inclusive society platform? “The Unheard Voices” gathered experts in various fields, namely the United Nations, local organizations, and educational institutions. The participants engaged in dialogues in which the voice of “everyone” was prioritized to achieve policies and changes that contribute to a more inclusive society in several aspects as follows:

– “Creating opportunities and enhancing social protection for people of all ages: Towards becoming partners in sustainable social development.

Participants included Prof. Emeritus Dr. Soottiporn Chittmittrapap, Head of Chulalongkorn University’s Research and Innovation Policy Committee, Ms. Sattakamon Kiatpanich, Director of the Research and Innovation Fund Administration Division 2, National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), Ms. Sirilak Chiangwong, Head of the United Nations Population Fund Thailand Office, Asst. Prof. Dr. Vorapat Inkarojrit, Assistant President of Chulalongkorn University, and Ms. Nataorn Indeesri, Director of Division of Strategies and Plans Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.

– “Age, Gender, and Violence”: creating an Inclusive Society in terms of age, gender equality at the workplace, and violence in society

Participants included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Piyachart Phiromswad, Deputy Director of Sasin School of Management, Ms. Sirilak Chiangwong, Head of UNFPA Thailand Office, Asst. Prof. Dr. Rukchanok Karcharnubarn, Associate Dean of College of Population Studies, Chulalongkorn University, and Thai ARi/Chula ARi Research Group, and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sumonthip Jitsawang, Head of Research on Thai Society without Violence, Faculty of Political Sciences, Chulalongkorn University.

– “Labor, Migration, and Migrant Dependents”: Building understanding and awareness of diversity in migrants’ society

Participants included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sutee Anantsuksomsri, Associate Dean of Faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, Prof. Dr. Supang Chantavanich, Asian Research Center for Migration, Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ruttiya Bhula-Or, Associate Dean of College of Population Studies, Chulalongkorn University, and Collaborating Centre for Labour Research, Chulalongkorn University (CU-COLLAR), and Dr. Premjai Vungsiriphisal, researcher at Institute of Asian Studies.

– “Inclusive Education and Diverse Educational Needs”: Creating understanding of inclusive education, which considers diverse learners and allows all learners— general learners and learners with special needs—equal access to quality education

The participants included Dr. Chanakida Thummanond, lecturer at the Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, and head of the project to develop a curriculum for training former drug offenders to prevent recidivism, and student counseling project in the context of promoting public consciousness among at-risk students, Ms. Rosalina Alexander McKay, President of The Rainbow Room Foundation, Prof. Dr. Weerasak Chonchaiya, Deputy Head of Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Asst. Prof. Dr. Chanisa Tantixalerm, Head of Special and Inclusive Education Curriculum, Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, and Head of the High Vocational Innovation Scholarship Program for Learners with Special Needs.

– “Achieving Fairness and Leaving No One Behind”: Sharing experience of creating fairness in society while ensuring no one gets left behind

The participants included Mr. Pakorn Lertsatienchai, Deputy Director for Academics and Social Relations, Chulalongkorn Social Research Institute (CUSRI), Mr. Thanachai Sundaravej, Senior Manager, Social Partnership and Public Engagement and Head of the Restart Academy Project, Thailand Institute of Justice, Mr. Akkanut Wantanasombut, researcher at Institute of Asian Studies, Chulalongkorn University, and Dr. Sayamol Charoenratana, The Human Security and Equity Research Unit, Chulalongkorn Social Research Institute (CUSRI).

In addition, the event featured an exhibition of the findings from research and projects related to inclusive society. These research projects included surveys of the landscapes regarding the creation of an indiscriminate or inclusive society, research trends in education, gender equality, and social justice, and directions of inclusive society research in the future, to name a few. There was also an exhibition of the DB Asok project from Don Bosco Technological College, led by Ms. Anupa Kongpramote, head of the project, and her team.

The Roundtable: What is inclusive society platform? “The Unheard Voices” was organized by Inclusive Society Platform, CU Innovation Hub, headed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Chanisa Tantixalerm. Inclusive Society Platform houses a network of Chulalongkorn University’s researchers with expertise in related fields, as well as collaborates with external organizations, to work towards developing various solutions to problems relating to social challenges. Collaboration, innovation, and integration are used to foster fair and sustainable equality.

Asst. Prof. Dr. Chanisa Tantixalerm, Head of Special and Inclusive Education Curriculum, Faculty of Education, Chulalongkorn University, and Head of the High Vocational Innovation Scholarship Program for Learners with Special Needs, revealed that Chulalongkorn University acted as a host of this Inclusive Society Platform Network Meeting, bringing together government agencies, the private sector, and relevant networks in a collaboration to solve problems in society. So far, Chulalongkorn has produced a significant amount of research on social issues, including those involving vulnerable groups, prisoners, children with people with special needs, and persons with disabilities. Hence, this event was organized to listen to and make known to the public “the unheard voices” of these groups who may have never spoken out before. In this regard, the media plays an invaluable role. This event marked the beginning of a network that brings together individuals working towards the same goal of creating an inclusive society. Future events will be organized featuring presentations of research by Chulalongkorn University’s faculty and by other sectors. The research will take the form of platforms, rather than individual research projects, and Chulalongkorn University is currently driving this effort.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/160406/

King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, attended the launching of the innovative Microalbuminuria Rapid Test developed by a team of experts and researchers from the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University. The test, which is convenient and easy to use and offers high accuracy, allows users to self-screen for kidney damage, giving it commercial potential in order to enhance Thailand’s healthcare system. It is expected for distribution in mid-2024.

Many executives of network partners from both the government and private sectors, as well as researchers, attended the launch of this innovation. The participants included Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chanchai Sittipunt, Dean of Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, and Director of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Prof. Dr. Nattachai Srisawat, Assistant Director of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Director of the Excellence Center for Critical Care Nephrology of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittinan Komolpis, Deputy Director of the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Prof. Dr. Sirirat Rengpipat, Director of the Qualified Diagnostic Development Center, Dr. Jurairat Phromjai, Research Manager at Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI), Ms. Narisa Mantangkun, Program Director, Advanced Medical Devices Technology & Medical Robotics, Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences (TCELS), and Mr. Aswin Techajareonvikul, BJC BigC Group’s CEO.

Prof. Dr. Nattachai Srisawat, Assistant Director of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Director of the Excellence Center for Critical Care Nephrology of King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital said that currently chronic kidney disease patients in Thailand make up as many as 17.5% of the population, accounting for approximately 11 million people (referring to data from the Thai SEEK project by (Prof. Dr. Atiporn Ingsathit and her team). Each year, the number of patients with chronic kidney disease, including patients receiving renal replacement therapy, increases, causing the declining quality of life of patients, increasing the workload of medical personnel, and raising public health expenditures. The current diagnosis of chronic kidney disease relies on serum creatinine values and microalbumin testing in urine, which requires patients to travel to the hospital, resulting in increased costs and wasted time. In addition, the various techniques for testing kidney function can sometimes lead to inaccuracy. The research team has therefore developed a Microalbuminuria Rapid Test to screen for early-stage chronic kidney disease. The innovation has been done in collaboration with a research and development network from multiple sectors. The efficacy of the test has been evaluated at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and expanded to larger-scale screening at the district level in Ban Phaeo District, Samut Sakhon Province.

The highlight of Microalbuminuria Rapid Test: Users can perform an initial self-assessment of their kidney function (self-care), which is easy to use and interpret. This benefits proactive policies where physicians and public health personnel can use it for early-stage screening of kidney disease patients. Early detection of kidney disease will result in patients becoming self-aware (self-literacy) and adjusting their lifestyle (lifestyle modification) to reduce the risk of developing chronic kidney disease in the future.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittinan Komolpis, Deputy Director of the Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, explained that the development of the microalbumin screening strip began in 2007 by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kittinan in collaboration with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Wanida Laiwattanapaisan, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, who was the thesis advisor for students conducting research at the institute. The research involved creating hybridomas that produce antibodies capable of specifically binding to albumin. These antibodies are a crucial component of the microalbumin screening strip. The ability to create and produce antibodies independently allows for further development and commercialization, rather than being limited to research. Subsequently, the research team selected suitable monoclonal antibodies and used them to develop a prototype albumin test strip. However, it had not been tested with urine samples from real patients until Prof. Dr. Nattachai put the test strip into actual use. This has led to a research project to evaluate the effectiveness of using the albumin screening strip with patient urine samples. The research results showed that the developed test strip provided results consistent with the current hospital testing methods.

Prof. Dr. Sirirat Rengpipat, Director of the Qualified Diagnostic Development Center, said Chulalongkorn University’s Qualified Diagnostic Development Center (QDD Center) is a certified medical device manufacturing facility (Registration No. Kor Tor. Sor Por. 182/2563) by the Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health. The center also has a Quality Management System (QMS) for medical device production that complies with the international standard ISO 13485:2016, certified by SGS, UKAS (Certificate TH23/00000017), demonstrating the expertise of the center’s personnel, efficient scientific equipment, and tools, and the capability to produce high-quality test strip kits ready for commercial distribution. This capability is seen in the Design and Development and Production of Lateral Flow Immunochromatographic Strip test, which employs the same technology as the “Microalbuminuria Rapid Test” being launched in this event. Hence, the center is well-equipped to serve as a third party to perform quality surveillance of products that integrate research results from various Chulalongkorn University teams, resulting in this effective test kit. The center will randomly sample test kits from stores while they are being sold to the general public to be examined for accuracy and precision. This is to ensure confidence in the test results, which can be used to more accurately analyze preliminary kidney health trends. This is an innovative approach to setting quality assessment standards for test kits sold in the market, providing rapid results and making manufacturers more aware of and attentive to maintaining consistent production process standards.

Dr. Jurairat Phromjai, Research Manager at Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI), explained that the high number of chronic kidney disease patients in Thailand, which accounts for 17.5% of the population and is continually increasing, along with data from the calculation of average expenses for renal replacement therapy using hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis methods, approximately 378,095 baht per person per year, has placed a significant burden on the country’s healthcare expenditure. Therefore, in addition to developing innovative research in medical technology to meet quality standards, HSRI emphasizes the utilization of research results. This includes pushing for inclusion in the universal health coverage system and expanding commercial applications to support widespread use by various target groups. The Microalbuminuria Rapid Test, partially funded by HSRI, has shown clear results in reducing dependence on foreign technology, decreasing medical burdens and expenses. This demonstrates the opportunity to increase accessibility to reduce illness among the Thai population and enhance the stability of the healthcare system. In the future, if it can be included in the universal health coverage system, its utilization will be enhanced even further by being distributed to sub-district health promotion hospitals. As a result, early-stage screening of kidney disease patients will be possible, leading to overall health budget savings for the country.

Ms. Narisa Mantangkun, Program Director, Advanced Medical Devices Technology & Medical Robotics, Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences (TCELS), stated that TCELS recognizes the importance of commercializing medical and health innovations for the benefits of society, enabling people to have equal access to medical and health services and innovations within the public health insurance system. So far, TCELS has collaborated with the National Health Security Office (NHSO), Food and Drug Administration, Ministry of Public Health, and related agencies, such as National Science, Research and Innovation Fund (NSRF), Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI), and researchers in universities to promote and further medical and health research for Thai people. The goal is to push such research into commercial markets or into the national health insurance system, which provides free public health services to over 48 million Thai nationals across the country. From this collaboration, TCELS has supported and promoted Thai medical and health innovations to meet both national and international standards by registering Thai innovations and through monitoring and evaluation (M&E). Several Thai innovations have already been included in the benefit package of the universal health coverage system, such as colostomy bags for colorectal cancer patients, developed by researchers at Prince of Songkla University, and dental implants for elderly people with complete edentulism, researched and developed by the Dental Innovation Foundation under Royal Patronage, among others. The Microalbuminuria Rapid Test is another important Thai innovation that is currently being pushed into the universal health coverage system so that people can screen for the disease by themselves, thus reducing overcrowding in hospitals and increasing the ability to care for and treat the disease before the final stage. This will also help lessen the government’s health budget, increase the potential and number of Thai innovations, contributing to economic growth and sustainably supporting the advancement of Thailand’s medical and health industry. TCELS is ready to support entrepreneurs in the medical and health equipment industry to strengthen the country’s economy, enabling it to become one of the world’s leaders in comprehensive healthcare business services.

Mr. Aswin Techajareonvikul, BJC BigC Group’s CEO, expressed his appreciation to the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, for trusting BJC Healthcare to be a part of the distribution of this health product to the Thai population. BJC Healthcare is ready to cooperate with and support the government to further develop health innovations for Thai people in the future. BJC Healthcare has been offering products related to the care of patients with diabetes and kidney disease for nearly 30 years and has a deep understanding of the public health system and the care of patients with non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The Microalbuminuria Rapid Test, or ALBII, developed by the Faculty of Medicine, will help everyone better care for patients, from prevention, treatment, and comprehensive healthcare. BJC Healthcare is well-equipped to market and distribute products nationwide, which will support the research and innovation work of educational institutions to be passed on to the public and benefit the health of Thai people. The distribution channels already available for the product include Pure Pharmacy in Big C and clinics for diabetes patients.

Furthermore, in order to make the product more accessible to patients, the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University also supports sales through vending machines of the Center for Medical Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CMICe) and the ฬ Care store. Therefore, the ALBII will be an option for those who want to initially check their kidney function by themselves, conveniently, quickly, and saving time and expenses compared to availing of hospital services.

Read more at: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/165698/

On April 9, 2024, at Chamchuri 4 building, Prof. Dr. Kaywalee Chatdarong, Vice President for Strategic Planning, Innovation and Global Engagement, Chulalongkorn University, and Mrs. Walairat Pongjitt, Director of Premier Innova Co., Ltd., Dr. Teerapong Yata, Managing Director of Premier Innova Co., Ltd., and Asst. Prof. Dr. Sirakarn Thitawat, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, signed an agreement authorizing Premier Innova Co., Ltd., to exercise the rights under the petty patent regarding “The Nanoparticle Encapsulated Hydrogel Composition for Essential Oils and the Preparation Methods” owned by Chulalongkorn University. Premier Innova Co., Ltd., is a company under the Premier group, operating in research, development, production, and distribution of nanoparticle extracts for products and services, as well as application of nanoparticles in product or service development.

The agreement signing ceremony was organized by CU Innovation Hub and Premier Innova Co., Ltd., with Dr. Teerapong Yata giving a welcome speech and introducing Premier Innova.

The research project on “The Nanoparticle Encapsulated Hydrogel Composition for Essential Oils and the Preparation Methods” conducted by a research team from Chulalongkorn University is an important first step for Thailand’s nanotechnology industry. The project is an upgrade of biological products that successfully employ nanoencapsulation technology to precisely deliver substances to parts of the body, especially application in the cosmeceutical industry, functional foods, and products for pets and economic animals. The technology can be expanded to benefit the delivery system of pharmaceutical and herbal substances, thereby enhancing the country’s self-reliance on developing innovation from raw materials and natural extracts. In addition, it supports the supply chain of health and biological products in Thailand, contributing to the country’s BCG economy.

Read more on: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/157062/