CSIR-IICT Transfers Phytopharmaceutical Technology for Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment
CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad, has signed a technology transfer agreement with Viridis BioPharma for an IND-ready phytopharmaceutical derived from Gymnema sylvestre, intended for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Developed under the CSIR Phytopharmaceutical Mission Phase-III, the product has completed pre-clinical development, botanical standardization, and GLP-compliant safety studies. It is now advancing towards clinical trials and commercial development, with plans for regulatory submissions to the CDSCO and US FDA. This initiative stands as a significant example of indigenous drug research, biotechnology, health innovation, and the commercialization of scientific research.
CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, has signed a technology transfer agreement with Viridis BioPharma regarding an IND-ready phytopharmaceutical developed for treating diabetic foot ulcers. This agreement marks a significant step in advancing scientific research toward clinical development and commercial application.
Treatment Derived from Gymnema sylvestre
This phytopharmaceutical has been developed from the botanical source Gymnema sylvestre and is specifically targeted at wound management. Its primary application is the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, while potential secondary uses include the treatment of chronic wounds and inflammatory skin disorders.
Significance of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Diabetic foot ulcers are a serious complication associated with diabetes; they can persist for extended periods due to impaired wound-healing capabilities. According to available data, this condition affects approximately 20% of diabetic patients. Therefore, developing standardized plant-based treatments is crucial from the perspectives of public health, affordable healthcare, and the scientific utilization of bio-resources.
Phytopharmaceutical Development and Testing
This product has been developed by the Applied Biology Division of CSIR-IICT under Phase-III of the CSIR Phytopharmaceutical Mission. Its pre-clinical development, botanical standardization, and GLP-compliant safety studies have been completed. It is now advancing to the next stage of clinical trials and commercial development.
Regulatory and Global Development Potential
The next phase of the project involves plans to submit regulatory applications to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) and the US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA). This highlights the potential to develop bio-based medicinal products—originated in India—in alignment with international regulatory standards and to gain access to the global market.
Significance of CSIR and CSIR-IICT
CSIR-IICT is a constituent laboratory of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and is located in Hyderabad, Telangana. CSIR was established on September 26, 1942, and is headquartered in New Delhi. The Prime Minister of India serves as the ex-officio President of CSIR. For the UPSC examination, this topic serves as a significant example of indigenous research, biotechnology, drug development, industry-academia collaboration, and the commercialization of science.
