India

Founded in 2008, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research’s Open Source Drug Discovery (OSDD) network utilizes crowdsourcing and open innovation to develop new drugs. Platforms like this are an essential alternative to drug firms for developing drugs for neglected diseases, said T. Balganesh, who spearheads OSDD’s drug development unit and is the former head of R&D at AstraZeneca India. The network was initially funded at INR 50 crore ($10.9 million) and has requested INR 1,700 crore under India’s 12th Plan. Indians account for 80% of the 5,500-person network. The network has begun efforts to develop drugs for malaria and Leishmaniasis. It has two anti-tuberculosis molecules in late-stage research, including one for which Phase IIb trials will take place in India. To assist with preclinical research, a Mumbai innovation center is being constructed. Dr. Balganesh wants OSDD to become a tool to foster innovation in India, including strengthening and commercializing patents.

Source: Forbes India

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