IASST Guwahati Partners with Bharat Biotech for Strategic Technology Transfer

IASST Guwahati signed an agreement with Bharat Biotech to bring innovative health products, derived from probiotics found in traditional Northeast Indian fermented foods, to market.

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 significant R&D and product development agreement with Bharat Biotech International (BBIL). This collaboration aims to bring innovative health products to market, developed from probiotics isolated from traditional fermented foods of Northeast India.

The agreement outlines the responsibilities of both parties, with IASST providing scientific expertise and leading research efforts, while Bharat Biotech will focus on commercialization. A monitoring committee, comprising representatives from all stakeholders, will oversee the project's progress to ensure timely achievement of milestones. Additionally, the agreement stipulates that IASST will receive royalties from the sale of products developed through this collaboration.

Research by IASST has shown these probiotics hold great promise in combating metabolic diseases, enhancing gut health, and promoting healthy ageing. The agreement was signed by Director IASST, Prof. Ashis Mukherjee and Executive Chairman of BBIL, Hyderabad, Dr Krishna Ella as well as Dr. Yogeshwar Rao from BBIL.

Professor Abhay Karandikar, Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), who presided over the agreement signing, emphasized that this collaboration aligns with the overarching vision of promoting the bioeconomy of Northeast India by leveraging its rich biodiversity. He noted that this partnership represents a significant milestone for IASST.

“The agreement between IASST and Bharat Biotech will facilitate the commercialisation 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. The collaboration will facilitate the necessary pre-clinical and clinical studies for these potential probiotics, and I am confident that the product will fight against metabolic diseases by promoting healthy ageing,” he added.

Director IASST Prof. Ashis Mukherjee underlined the importance of the collaboration, noting that it provides a unique opportunity to convert academic research into commercially viable products.

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