ICMR Invites Partners to Develop Indigenous Monoclonal Antibody Platform Against Nipah Virus
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has invited Expressions of Interest (EoI) from companies to develop and produce monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the Nipah virus (NiV). Nipah is a zoonotic threat with high fatality rates (40% to 75%) and frequent outbreaks in India since 2001. Currently, there are no licensed vaccines, making mAbs the only feasible biomedical countermeasure. These antibodies can serve as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for high-risk contacts, including healthcare workers. The initiative aims to build a stock of indigenous medical countermeasures to ensure timely access during outbreaks and enhance national health preparedness.
Key Points
- Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease with a very high case fatality rate.
- Monoclonal antibodies can reduce viral load and limit disease progression if administered early.
- ICMR-National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, is leading the experimental work.
- The project seeks to create an indigenous platform for antibody production to reduce import dependence.
Exam Facts
- Fatality Rate: 40% to 75%
- Leading Institute: ICMR-NIV, Pune
- First recorded outbreak in India: 2001
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