VeGen Labs LLP, a biotech startup incubated at ASPIRE-TBI and ASPIRE-BioNEST at the University of Hyderabad (UoH), has received ₹3.765 crore funding from the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), an initiative under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. This funding will aid the company in conducting critical research studies for developing a KRAS inhibitor, a targeted therapy for lung cancer.
Significance of the Research
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in India, with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounting for nearly 85% of cases. Additionally, the country records approximately 70,000 new lung cancer cases every year. The development of KRAS inhibitors presents a significant advancement in precision oncology, offering targeted treatments with improved outcomes.
With the BIRAC funding, VeGen Labs aims to complete essential preclinical studies required for Investigational New Drug (IND) submission. Upon successful completion, the company will initiate first-in-human clinical trials, positioning India as a key player in drug discovery and precision medicine.
University’s Role in Innovation
Prof. BJ Rao, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad, emphasized the role of ASPIRE-BioNEST and ASPIRE-TBI in fostering cutting-edge biotech innovations. He highlighted that supporting startups like VeGen Labs is crucial for strengthening India’s presence in global healthcare research and drug discovery.
“The success of startups like VeGen Labs underscores the impact of ASPIRE-BioNEST and ASPIRE-TBI in nurturing cutting-edge research. Supporting high-impact drug discovery is crucial for strengthening India’s role in global healthcare, and we take pride in seeing VeGen Labs drive cancer treatments from our incubation ecosystem,” said Prof. Rao.
Advancing India’s Cancer Research Capabilities
With this funding, VeGen Labs is set to advance cancer treatment innovations while contributing to India’s growing expertise in biotechnology and pharmaceutical research. The company’s KRAS inhibitor development marks a significant milestone in addressing lung cancer treatment challenges for both domestic and international markets.
For further updates, visit the official University of Hyderabad website or the BIRAC portal.
