Reagene Innovations Pvt Ltd, a start-up incubated at ASPIRE-BioNEST, University of Hyderabad (UoH), has claimed to have made a breakthrough in the development of a potential treatment option for diabetes. The disease, which affects millions worldwide and can lead to severe complications, requires more effective therapies to control blood glucose levels.
Currently, there are various drugs available for treating Type 2 diabetes, but many patients struggle to achieve normal glucose levels. In response to this urgent need, Reagene Innovations has claimed to have devised a strategy to reduce blood glucose. Their approach focuses on inhibiting the absorption of dietary glucose by the small intestine, as it contributes to a significant portion of blood glucose levels.
To achieve this, Reagene developed chicken antibodies specifically targeting a protein called SGLT1, responsible for transporting glucose. By blocking the absorption of dietary glucose through the use of these antibodies, they have demonstrated improved glucose levels and glycemic profiles in animal models, showing promise for potential human therapy.
Dr Satish Chandran, CEO of ProdIgY Bio Inc, USA, a collaborator of Reagene, emphasised the feasibility of using chicken-derived IgY antibodies in humans, as it is widely accepted by regulatory bodies worldwide.
Dr Subrahmanyam Vangala, Co-Founder of Reagene Innovations, said considering that India has the highest number of diabetics globally, the development of innovative ideas by Indian start-ups is crucial in providing relief to millions of people affected by the disease.
Professor GS Prasad and Professor S Rajagopal, Directors of ASPIRE BioNEST Incubator, highlighted the support provided by the incubator in fostering the start-up ecosystem and nurturing new ideas.
