IICT seeks patent for anti-ulcer molecule

Code-named OA-5, the molecule has showed potent antigastric ulcer activity

The Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) has announced that it is filing a patent for an anti-ulcer molecule in collaboration with the Gulbarga University.

The molecule has been isolated from Indian medicinal plants and is claimed to be more effective than the existing anti-ulcer drugs.

"We have crossed the preliminary stage of isolating the new chemical entity. It is ready for pre-clinical toxicology studies. We are in discussions with the industry and it is likely to enter the market within three years. The global market for this drug is likely to be over $5 billion," JS Yadav, director of IICT, told mediapersons. The institute will be celebrating its 62nd Foundation Day on August 5, 2006.

The molecule has been code-named OA-5 and it has showed potent antigastric ulcer activity against ulcers that are chemical induced, stress induced, pylorus ligated and ethanol induced.

However, it is not effective against H Pylori induced ulcers. IICT has filed 104 patents (75 overseas) and has been granted 64 patents (33 overseas).

Meanwhile, IICT is also setting up a Centre for Combinatorial Natural Products at an investment of Rs 25 crore for drug development from plant products.

This is likely to be ready within a year. The institute's plan to set up a biotechnology incubator in Andhra Pradesh since 2003 has not borne fruits because of lack of monetary support, according to Yadav.

"The department of biotechnology has replied positively to our request for funds. We are still awaiting sanction," he added. The total external cash flow (ECF) of IICT for 2005-06 was Rs 25.2 crore with the ECF from the industry being Rs 8.6 crore.

Q&A with JS Yadav, director, IICT: https://www.business-standard.com/search/storypage_new.php?leftnm=1&leftindx=1&subLeft=2&autono=216123