GUWAHATI, Oct 28: Probiotics extracted from the fermented foods of diverse ethnic communities in Northeast India may soon be utilized to address lifestyle-related ailments such as diabetes and obesity.
The Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati has entered into a significant partnership with Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday for pre-clinical and clinical studies on these probiotics.
As an autonomous entity under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the IASST has conducted research indicating that these probiotics hold substantial promise for tackling metabolic disorders, improving gut health, and fostering healthy aging. The collaboration aims to commercialize these innovative technologies, with IASST and Bharat Biotech jointly facilitating essential pre-clinical and clinical trials.
Abhay Karandikar, the Secretary of the DST, expressed confidence in the probiotics’ ability to combat metabolic diseases while promoting healthy aging. He highlighted the collaboration’s role in transforming academic research into commercially viable health products.
Ashis Mukherjee, IASST’s Director, emphasized that the partnership presents a unique chance to develop probiotics based on traditional knowledge, potentially offering natural solutions for lifestyle diseases. He acknowledged Bharat Biotech’s expertise in conducting regulatory-compliant trials.
Under the agreement, Bharat Biotech will play an active role in the commercialization process. A monitoring committee comprising representatives from relevant stakeholders will oversee the project’s progress to ensure milestones are met promptly. Furthermore, IASST will receive royalties from the sale of products created through this collaboration.
