CSIR-IICT signs MoU with 101 Therapeutics Israel for new drug for Covid-19

Hyderabad: The CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) has signed an MoU with 101 Therapeutics Ltd., Israel for clinical trials for a Covid-19 drug. In what may come as a breakthrough in the treatment of Covid, the drug will be helpful in curbing the viral infection.

CSIR-IICT will be the knowledge partner for the clinical trial study by offering expert guidance, monitoring and smooth execution of the programme with the CRO identified by 101 Therapeutics Ltd. The agreement will be for 3 years and on successful completion of the clinical trials, this drug would prove to be highly appropriate and effective in the treatment of Covid-19 and also help combat future pandemics.

Dr. Sistla Ramakrishna, chief scientist & project leader told Deccan Chronicle, “This will be an intravenous macrophage targeting drug conjugate which will target specifically the place where macrophages are over-activated, which happens when a virus attacks a body part. This drug could be administered in the initial as well as later stages of the covid infection, kill the over-activated macrophages and inactivate the virus in the body”.

The drug which will be injected into the body will be in a lesser dose with low concentration and will directly reach the affected part of the body and reduce the side effects of the drugs in the course of treatment.

Phase 2 of the clinical trial was in process and phase 3 of the trial is likely to begin soon, post which the drug will be available in India for treatment of Covid and other infections like meningitis.

Dr. D. Shailaja, chief scientist & chair, business development & research management signed the agreement on behalf of CSIR-IICT and Alec Goldberg signed the agreement from 101 Therapeutics Ltd. Dr. Srinivasa Reddy, Director, CSIR-IICT and Dr. Sistla Ramakrishna, chief scientist & project leader was also present in the online meeting.