Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Medical Devices
Open Access

Abstract

Development and Manufacturing of World Grade Programmable Thermal Cyclers for Polymerase Chain Reaction in Pakistan: A Case of Biomedical Engineering

Mukhtar Ahmed Rana, Tayyab Ahmed Shakeel and Zulfiqar Ahmed

Manufacturing is the backbone of a modern state and has a direct impact on life style of a common person of a society. We present here the development and manufacturing of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machines by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC), Pakistan. Steps of the development and manufacturing of PCR machines are explained. Important design features of MERADD PCR machines and their implementation are documented here. Results of the MERADD PCR machine are compared with those of competitive imported machines. MERADD is the sole manufacturer of PCR machines in Pakistan. Quality assurance and cost analysis are also given. MERADD PCR machines produce as good results as by the imported machines, but cost is significantly lower. This paper is useful for a broad community of developers/manufacturers of medical devices and biomedical engineering in developing countries around the world.