In a milestone in India’s clinical research landscape, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has announced the formalisation of Memoranda of Agreement (MoA) with multiple sponsors under its Phase 1 Clinical Trials Network. This initiative marks a significant step forward in first-in-human clinical trials for four innovative molecules, signalling a major step forward in advancing India’s pharmaceutical research capabilities. The new agreements entail:
- Collaborative research on a small molecule targeting multiple myeloma
- Development of a Zika virus vaccine
- Seasonal influenza virus vaccine trial
- Moving forward with CAR-T cell therapy for
chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Shri JP Nadda commented on the strategic collaboration between ICMR and leading industrial and academic partners.1✔ ✔Reliable source
>Indian Council of Medical Research signs MoU with academic and industry partners to advance first-in-human Phase 1 clinical trials
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He stressed that this initiative represents a milestone towards achieving affordable and accessible cutting-edge treatments, positioning India as a potential global leader in healthcare innovation.
ICMR’s Strategic Vision and Broader Outcomes
“This collaboration reflects our commitment to promoting clinical research in India through strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors,” said Dr Bahl, highlighting the importance of establishing a Phase 1 clinical trial infrastructure as a key element in fostering the development of indigenous molecules and advanced therapies. He also highlighted the broader impact of ICMR initiatives, including the Phase 1 Clinical Trials Network, in line with the government’s vision of a “Viksit Bharat” (developed India).
Infrastructure and expansion of ICMR network
The ICMR Network for Phase 1 Clinical Trials consists of four institutions strategically located across India. This network, supported by a Central Coordination Unit at ICMR Headquarters in New Delhi, It aims to develop and enhance India’s capacity to conduct early phase clinical trials. with robust infrastructure and dedicated workforce at each site.
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These agreements serve as a further testimony to ICMR’s commitment to developing a robust clinical trial environment in India.
The aim of ICMR’s relationships with key industrial players is to drive the development of innovative medicines from early phase trials to market, decrease dependence on external funding and ultimately support the goal of universal access to affordable, high-quality healthcare.
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Reference:
- Indian Council of Medical Research signs MoU with industry and academic partners to advance first-in-human Phase 1 clinical trials (https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2054864)
Source-Medindia
