In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s scientific community, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have developed a next-generation antibody discovery platform. This innovative tool promises to revolutionize disease diagnosis and treatment, particularly for cancer, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and emerging pathogens.
The platform excels at rapidly identifying highly stable antibodies with strong binding affinities. These properties ensure precision and effectiveness in targeting disease markers, addressing a critical gap in healthcare responses worldwide. By drastically reducing discovery timelines, it positions itself as a vital asset during emergencies like pandemics.
Central to this advancement is a vast, high-diversity single-domain antibody library, often called nanobodies. These compact yet powerful molecules offer superior stability compared to traditional antibodies, making them ideal for therapeutic applications.
Prof. Rajesh Kumar from IIT Roorkee’s Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering emphasized the platform’s potential: ‘By creating a universal, high-diversity antibody discovery system in India, we are enhancing our ability to strike swiftly against diseases and provide affordable diagnostics and treatments to those who need them most.’
This development aligns seamlessly with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. It bolsters indigenous research capabilities, reduces reliance on imported biologics, and fosters intellectual property generation. For low- and middle-income countries, where timely and cost-effective healthcare remains elusive, this is a game-changer.
The platform supports translational research, bridging the gap from lab discoveries to patient bedside applications. It prepares the nation better for future outbreaks and strengthens long-term public health infrastructure.
IIT Roorkee Director Prof. K.K. Pant hailed the effort: ‘This development illustrates how fundamental research, translational intent, and industry collaboration can solve pressing societal challenges.’
In a strategic move, the institute has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Imgenex India. The partnership will drive collaborative research, co-development of advanced biologics, and capacity building in antibody engineering, diagnostics, therapeutics, and bioprocess development.
As global health threats evolve, this platform not only fortifies India’s defenses but also sets a benchmark for self-reliant innovation in biotechnology.