Bal Pharma Ltd has teamed up with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) for microbiology and allied areas of research in drug development programmes including stability tests and bioavailability studies. The scientists from Bal Pharma will work closely with the cream of researchers from IISc to conduct a study on metabolites and assess the metabolic process of drug in the body. The R&D division which is located in Bommasandra, Bangalore has been recognised by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR) and the company could conduct research studies with leading scientific research institutes in the country.

Research at Bal Pharma currently focuses on 'Chiral Chemistry' for customs synthesis in new drug development. The global Chiral Chemistry and customs synthesis market is pegged at $120 billion and the company is looking at contract research projects in the area. In Chiral Chemistry, scientists will work on one half of the active molecule and concentrate on the synthesis of these Chiral compounds, Dr. S Prasanna, director, research and development, Bal Pharma told Pharmabiz.com.

The company's success in the development of gliclazide has given it a platform to specialise in anti diabetic drugs, cardiovascular and anti histamine drugs. "We are now working to isolate active ingredients from plant/nature, conducted synergic studies with a few ingredients that increase the activity in small doses which is sufficient to increase the potency of a capsule. We are exercising our efforts in this area to enhance the activity of allopathy drugs," Dr. Prasanna.

The company's research programmes would help tap the post 2005 market, where it would concentrate on development of super generics and intermediaries.

By the end of 2003, Bal Pharma would invest around Rs 3-4 crore in research and development and has already purchased relevant equipment worth Rs.2 crore including LCMS which separates the smallest impurities and gives data to avoid contamination during the formulation process. As a part of its expansion plans, the company will be hiring more scientists. The present strength of the division is 55 where 23 are scientists in R&D, quality control and quality assurance. Novosynth Research Laboratory, a fully owned subsidiary of the company has commenced its contract research for international market.

The research projects on hand are expected to fructify into import substitution bulk drugs of high potential. The company has also received recognition as an Export House from Government of India.