Indian Institute of Science's (IISc) Department of Biochemistry has teamed-up with Clinigene, the clinical research subsidiary of Biocon Limited, for the development of a kidney kit.

The research has ensued with the discovery of potential biomarkers for nephropathy diagnosis. Currently, the two teams are in the process of systematically formatting the research findings which is expected to lead to the development of a compatible routine diagnostic kit. The methodology adopted for the research programme is Proteomics.

The research has now completed phase I trials. It continues to involve leading hospitals like Manipal Institute of Nephrology, St. Johns Medical College Hospital and Ramaiah Medical Hospital where patients have undergone tests to prove its accuracy and the trials have helped to support the reliability of the kit.

"The kidney diagnostic kit is novel in all respects as the existing research in biomarkers, only addresses 'Albumenuria' which means only albumen content can be detected in the urine of the patients. What sets our new methodology apart is that it is more dependable, faster and economical," Dr. Utpal Tatu, associate professor, department of biochemistry, Indian Institute of Science told to Pharmabiz.

"Conventionally, medical scientists looked out for single elements during a diagnosis but by using a Proteomics methodology the process is more comprehensive. The proposed diagnostic kit will have three unique biomarkers in addition to the 'Albumenuria', which could aid in quicker findings to help nephrologists select treatment options faster," he added.

Clinigene, which is funding the project, didn't disclose the details. IISc associated with Clinigene because of the availability of an exhaustive diabetic registry that could prove useful for the process. Despite the findings of the intensive research, it was difficult for Dr Tatu to speculate how long the study would continue. "Now we have the basic concept and methodology of the kit in place. We have applied for a patent for the novel research concept. We are hoping to seek collaborations with the industry to manufacture the kit once the research is through," he said.

The trials were conducted on early kidney failure cases and those with diabetes to ascertain whether the disease had affected the renal organs. The research proved beneficial for the scientists who are confident that early renal failure can be detected and progression to a complete failure can be prevented to a considerable extent stated Dr Tatu.

The team led by Dr Tatu has also been conducting research on malaria. They had found that a benzoquinone ansamycin drug can inhibits growth of malarial parasite in human red blood cells. The other research of the interest of the group is related disorders with diabetics like nephropathy and retinopathy. Dr Tatu's lab is focussing on the medical theme 'Molecular Chaperon' which emphasises on Proteomics that specifically leads to potential clinical applications.