NEW DELHI: In a significant move to strengthen India’s clinical research ecosystem, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Saturday announced that it has partnered with industry and academics to advance first-in-human clinical trials for vaccine against Zika and seasonal flu and therapies for blood cancers.
“The initiative is a crucial step towards establishing India as a leader in the clinical development of pharmaceutical agents, ” said the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Under its network of Phase 1 clinical trials, ICMR said it has formalised a Memorandum of Agreements (MoAs) with multiple sponsors for four promising molecules.
As per the agreements, the ICMR will undertake collaborative research over a small molecule for multiple myeloma (a blood cancer that affects the plasma cells) with Bengaluru-based Aurigene Oncology.
The apex research body has partnered with Indian Immunologicals, based in Hyderabad, for the development of a Zika vaccine. It has coordinated with Mynvax Private, based in Bengaluru for a trial of a vaccine against the seasonal Influenza virus.
The ICMR has also signed a pact with Navi Mumbai-based ImmunoACT to conduct a CAR-T cell therapy advancement study for a new indication of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (a type of cancer of the blood and bone marrow).
“The initiative positions India to emerge as a global leader in healthcare innovation. It is a key milestone in the pursuit of affordable and accessible cutting-edge treatments for all citizens, ” said Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J P Nadda.
“Establishing Phase 1 clinical trial infrastructure is a key component in fostering the development of indigenous molecules and cutting-edge treatments. Our vision is to expand this network further, ensuring that India continues to lead in the development of innovative and affordable healthcare solutions, ” added Dr. Rajiv Bahl, Secretary, Department of Health Research and Director General, ICMR.
The ICMR Network for Phase 1 Clinical Trials comprises four strategically located institutions across India -- KEMH and GSMC, Mumbai; ACTREC, Navi Mumbai; SRM MCH and RC, Kattankulathur; and PGIMER, Chandigarh -- supported by a Central coordinating unit at ICMR Headquarters in New Delhi.