CSIR-IICT develops plant-based drug candidate for diabetic foot ulcers, transfers to industry - The HinduUpdated - August 12, 2026 07:12 pm IST - HYDERABADScientists at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) have developed a phytopharmaceutical derived from the medicinal plant Gymnema sylvestre for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. The therapy also shows potential for managing other chronic wounds and inflammatory skin disorders.The product was developed by researchers from the Department of Applied Biology at CSIR-IICT under the leadership of Anthony Addlagatta, with Srigiridhar Kotamraju and Aruna Jangam playing key roles in the project. The research was supported under the ‘CSIR Phytopharmaceutical Mission Phase III’, which focuses on translating scientifically validated botanical products into clinically relevant therapies, said an official release on Wednesday.The research has progressed through an extensive development pathway and has secured patent protection in India as well as in international jurisdictions. The technology has undergone botanical standardisation, pharmacological evaluation, mechanism-of-action studies, analytical characterisation, pharmacokinetic assessment, formulation and process development, stability testing, and safety studies conducted in compliance with regulatory requirements.These efforts have generated a comprehensive Investigational New Drug (IND)-ready data package for the standardised botanical therapeutic. “The successful development of this IND-ready phytopharmaceutical formulation highlights the strength of our scientific capabilities and our commitment to evidence-based botanical drug discovery,” said IICT director D. Srinivasa Reddy.Mr. Reddy said such academia-industry collaborations are crucial for accelerating innovation, strengthening India’s biopharmaceutical ecosystem and delivering affordable, world-class therapies to patients.A technology transfer agreement was done with Mumbai-based Viridis Biopharma Pvt. Ltd. to advance the product towards clinical development and regulatory approvals, including those of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation and the US Food and Drug Administration.Viridis Biopharma will lead the next phase of development, including regulatory submissions and clinical evaluation. “We are excited to be involved in the commercial development of this technology, which addresses an unmet need in wound care and aligns with our portfolio in advanced wound management,” said Viridis Biopharma technical director Anslem de Souza.Published - August 12, 2026 07:11 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }