Guwahati: 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 pivotal agreement with Bharat Biotech International (BBIL) to develop and commercialize innovative health products derived from probiotics isolated from traditional fermented foods of Northeast India. This collaboration is aimed at addressing metabolic diseases, improving gut health, and promoting healthy ageing.
The probiotics, identified through extensive research at IASST, have shown remarkable potential in offering natural solutions for lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and obesity. The agreement will now move these promising innovations toward pre-clinical and clinical trials, with Bharat Biotech playing a crucial role in ensuring the products meet regulatory standards.
Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of DST, presided over the signing ceremony, emphasizing the collaboration’s alignment with the broader vision of boosting the bioeconomy of Northeast India by leveraging its rich biodiversity. “The agreement between IASST and Bharat Biotech will facilitate the commercialization of these innovative technologies being developed by IASST. Bharat Biotech’s global reputation for excellence in biopharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health solutions will help IASST in translating these scientific innovations into products,” Karandikar remarked. He expressed confidence that the probiotics would significantly contribute to fighting metabolic diseases and promoting healthy ageing.
The agreement was signed by IASST Director Prof. Ashis Mukherjee, Bharat Biotech Executive Chairman Dr. Krishna Ella, and Dr. Yogeshwar Rao of BBIL. Prof. Mukherjee underscored the importance of this partnership, highlighting that it offers a unique opportunity to transform academic research into commercially viable products, thereby enhancing the region’s contribution to the national biotechnology sector.
Bharat Biotech, known for its leadership in vaccine and health solutions, will spearhead the product commercialization process, with IASST focusing on its scientific expertise and research leadership. The agreement also outlines the formation of a monitoring committee that will oversee the project’s progress and ensure timely completion of key milestones. As per the agreement, IASST will receive royalties from the sales of products developed through this collaboration.
The probiotic products, rooted in traditional knowledge, are expected to offer sustainable solutions for prevalent metabolic disorders and contribute to India’s burgeoning biotechnology industry. Both IASST and Bharat Biotech expressed optimism about the impact of this collaboration, envisioning a future where scientific innovations from the Northeast region make a global impact on health and wellness.
This partnership marks a significant milestone in promoting the bioeconomy of Northeast India and showcases the power of blending traditional knowledge with cutting-edge science to address contemporary health challenges.