IIT Roorkee Unveils Innovative Antibody Discovery Platform

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee announced a significant advancement in medical diagnostics on January 20, 2024. The team has developed a next-generation antibody discovery platform that promises to enhance diagnostics and therapeutics for a range of diseases, including infectious diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. This innovative platform features an ultra-large, high-diversity single-domain antibody (nanobody) library, which allows for the rapid identification of highly stable and high-affinity antibodies.

The new platform addresses critical gaps in healthcare response, particularly during public health emergencies, by significantly reducing discovery timelines. According to Prof. Rajesh Kumar from the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering at IIT Roorkee, “By developing a universal, high-diversity antibody discovery system within India, we are strengthening national capabilities for faster disease response and accelerating the development of affordable diagnostics and therapeutics for populations that need them the most.”

This research aligns with the Indian government’s initiatives, such as Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. These programs aim to enhance self-reliance in healthcare solutions, especially in low- and middle-income countries where timely and cost-effective healthcare remains a challenge. The initiative emphasizes the importance of strengthening indigenous research capabilities, generating intellectual property, and reducing dependence on imported biologics.

Impact on Healthcare and Research Collaboration

The IIT Roorkee team asserts that this development demonstrates how fundamental research, combined with translational intent and industry collaboration, can effectively address urgent societal challenges. Prof. K. K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, emphasized the importance of this research in enhancing India’s healthcare infrastructure and pandemic preparedness.

To facilitate the real-world application of these findings, IIT Roorkee has entered into a strategic collaboration with the industry. The institute signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IMGENEX India to promote cooperative research and co-development of advanced biologics. This partnership will focus on capacity building in areas such as antibody engineering, diagnostics, therapeutics, and bioprocess development.

The antibody discovery platform is expected to play a pivotal role in improving healthcare responses, not only within India but also in other countries facing similar healthcare challenges. By leveraging local expertise and resources, the project aims to contribute to a more resilient healthcare system capable of addressing future health crises effectively.

As the platform progresses, its potential to transform the landscape of diagnostics and therapeutics will be closely monitored, marking a significant step forward in India’s scientific and medical research capabilities.