Avasthagen, ICMR sign MoU to promote biomedical research

Bangalore, Aug 12 (UNI) Avasthagen Limited, a knowledge-based Life Sciences company today signed a Memorandum of Understating (MoU) with the Indian Council of Medical Research, (ICMR) New Delhi, to promote biomedical research in India.

The MoU was aimed at formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research besides strengthening research in Bionutrition area and opening new avenues for research on traditional Indian medicinal plants.

Avasthagen and ICMR would also undertake research in the area of genetic engineering and engineering metabolic pathways of medicinal plants for increasing concentration of the active ingredients using physio-chemical and molecular approaches, develop oilseeds and pulses with improved nutrition effect, tolerance to drought and salinity and improved nutrient utilization efficiency.

Dr S K Bhattacharya, Additional Director General and Officiating DG of ICMR, said ''the MoU is indeed the first of its kind in the research area of traditional Indian medicinal plants. We welcome this initiative and look forward to working closely with the scientists at Avesthagen.'' Dr Villoo Morawala Patell, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director of Avesthagen Limited said '' we have been investing and developing various tools and methodologies for the identification and validation of plant bio-actives. These efforts would be made use for both therapy and preventive healthcare. Avesthagen's important and unique association with ICMR will hasten this process and also provide an independent view of our results,'' the release added.

UNI MSP RS ROY 1935