ICMR signs pacts for clinical trials for four drug molecules

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Last Updated17/09/2024

The collaboration between ICMR and prominent industry and academic partners is a key milestone in the pursuit of affordable and accessible cutting edge treatments for all: Union Health Minister

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has initiated a groundbreaking step in advancing India's position in healthcare innovation by formalizing Memorandums of Agreement (MoAs) with multiple sponsors under its ‘Network for Phase 1 Clinical Trials’.
These agreements mark India's foray into first-in-human clinical trials for four promising molecules, demonstrating a strong collaboration between industry and academia aimed at fostering indigenous healthcare solutions.

The network will support four significant projects:
- Multiple Myeloma: In collaboration with Aurigene Oncology Limited, ICMR is conducting trials for a small molecule aimed at treating multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer.
- Zika Virus Vaccine: A partnership with Indian Immunologicals Limited to develop a Zika vaccine, a vital initiative given the global threat posed by this virus.
- Seasonal Influenza Virus Vaccine: ICMR is coordinating with Mynvax Private Limited to trial a vaccine for seasonal influenza, addressing a recurring public health concern.
- CAR-T Cell Therapy: With ImmunoACT, the council is advancing CAR-T cell therapy for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, a promising form of personalized cancer treatment.
These collaborations underscore India's growing capacity to conduct high-quality clinical research and develop cutting-edge treatments.

Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda highlighted the significance of these collaborations, marking a key milestone in making advanced treatments affordable and accessible to all citizens.
By focusing on Phase 1 clinical trials, which assess the safety and dosage of new drugs in humans for the first time, ICMR is laying the groundwork for indigenous pharmaceutical development.
Rajiv Bahl, Director General of ICMR, emphasized that establishing a strong Phase 1 clinical trial infrastructure is essential to support India's pharmaceutical and biotech ecosystem.
The creation of this network aligns with India's aspirations to become a global leader in healthcare innovation.

ICMR's Phase 1 Clinical Trial Network consists of four strategically chosen institutions across India:
- King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College, Mumbai
- Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Navi Mumbai
- SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Kattankulathur
- Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh
These institutions will be supported by the Central Coordinating Unit at ICMR’s headquarters in New Delhi, ensuring a centralized oversight and standardized protocols for trial management. With robust infrastructure and dedicated manpower at each site, the network will facilitate smooth and efficient trial operations.

The initiative significantly enhances India's capacity to conduct early-phase clinical trials, making it a strong contender in global healthcare research.
By collaborating with prominent industry partners, ICMR is helping drive the discovery of new treatments for critical diseases, potentially positioning India as a leader in the clinical development of pharmaceutical agents.
This network not only strengthens India's healthcare sector but also contributes to the global efforts in developing life-saving treatments and vaccines, showcasing India's potential as a hub for affordable and innovative healthcare solutions.