The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati has signed a significant R&D collaboration with Bharat Biotech International (BBIL) to develop innovative health products from probiotics.
IASST and Bharat Biotech Collaborate for Probiotic Innovation
The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has signed a vital research and development collaboration and product development agreement with Bharat Biotech International (BBIL).
Focus on Probiotic Health Products
- Goal: The partnership aims to bring innovative health products developed from probiotics found in traditional fermented foods of Northeast India to market.
- Bioeconomy Boost: The initiative will also promote the bioeconomy of Northeast India.
- Health Benefits: According to IASST research, these probiotics can combat metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity, improve gut health, and boost healthy ageing.
- Facilitating Studies: The collaboration will enable pre-clinical and clinical studies for these potential probiotics.
- Expert Insights: Secretary Department of Science and Technology (DST) Professor Abhay Karandikar highlighted the importance of this collaboration.
Unique Opportunity for Commercialization
- Academic Research to Market: Director IASST Prof. Ashis Mukherjee stated the collaboration provides an opportunity to turn academic research into commercially viable products.
- Role of Bharat Biotech: Bharat Biotech, a leader in vaccine and health solutions, will conduct pre-clinical and clinical trials.
- Research Initiatives: IASST will contribute its scientific understanding and spearhead the research.
- Regulatory Standards: Bharat Biotech will ensure probiotics meet regulatory standards.
Project Supervision and Royalties
- Monitoring Committee: The project will be supervised by a committee with representatives from all stakeholders to ensure milestones are met.
- Royalties: IASST will receive royalties from selling products generated through this partnership.
Conclusion
This collaboration between IASST and Bharat Biotech is a promising step towards leveraging traditional knowledge to combat modern lifestyle diseases while promoting the bioeconomy of Northeast India. The potential health benefits and commercial success of these probiotic products could significantly impact India’s biotechnology sector.
FAQs
- What is the main goal of the IASST and Bharat Biotech collaboration?
- To develop innovative health products from probiotics isolated from traditional fermented foods of Northeast India.
- Which institution is involved in this collaboration?
- The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, and Bharat Biotech International (BBIL).
- How will this partnership benefit Northeast India?
- It will promote the bioeconomy of the region and bring innovative health products to market.
- What are the potential health benefits of these probiotics?
- They can help fight metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity, improve gut health, and boost healthy ageing.
- Who will conduct pre-clinical and clinical trials?
- Bharat Biotech will conduct the pre-clinical and clinical trials.
- What role will IASST play in this collaboration?
- IASST will contribute its scientific understanding and lead the research initiatives.
- What is the role of the monitoring committee in this project?
- To supervise the project and ensure the timely attainment of milestones.
- Will IASST receive any financial benefits from this partnership?
- Yes, IASST will get royalties from selling items generated via this partnership.
- How are these probiotics linked to traditional knowledge?
- They are isolated from traditional fermented foods of Northeast India.
- What is the expected impact on India’s biotechnology sector?
- The collaboration is expected to contribute significantly to India’s growing biotechnology sector.
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