| Title of the Research Problem |
Preservative free topical products to treat various ocular diseases. |
| Abstract of the Research problem |
Preservatives are part of topical ophthalmic medications to maintain the products sterility during its shelf life. However, many clinical studies report ocular surface toxicity as a prime concern for patients who chronically use eye drops containing preservatives. Additionally, regulatory bodies like the European Medicines Agency have raised several concerns about the use of preservatives and promote the development of alternate safe products. Recently, Food and Drug Administration approved preservative-free Alaway and IYUZEH eye drops indicate the regulators interest and business potential of the preservative-free formulation. We propose to develop and evaluate preservative-free topical ophthalmic products to treat various ocular diseases thereby improving patient compliance among the Indian population. |
| Target TRL to be achieved |
TRL-4
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| Previous work done by the faculty |
Dr. Nirmal has been working in the field of ocular drug delivery for treating various ocular diseases. To date, he has been involved in several projects that aim to achieve optimum therapeutics (right concentration of drug at the right target site at the right time). His team has expertise in designing and developing topical ocular formulations and conducting preclinical safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy studies. Dr. Prashant is a pioneer in treating ocular surface diseases. His lab works in ocular infectious diseases. Mr. Kapil Shah, CEO at Suyaash Pharmaceuticals is involved in the manufacturing of a wide range of topical formulations.
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| Related Research Equipment / Lab Space / Facilities Available for solving this problem |
Dr. Nirmal lab at BITS Pilani, Hyderabad campus, is a research lab (Translational Pharmaceutics Research laboratory) involved in developing ocular drug delivery systems. Also, the common Department and Central Analytical Laboratory facilities are available.
LVPEI, Hyderabad has the facilities to evaluate the sterility of the developed formulations.
Suyaash Pharmaceuticals have the facility to produce pilot and large-scale batches for wide range of ophthalmic formulations.
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| UN SDG Impacted |
UN-SDG-3 (Good Health and Well Being)
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| Ideal Applicant Background |
The applicant must hold a Masters degree in any field of Pharmaceutical sciences. Previous experience in formulation design and development would be an added advantage. The applicant must be interested in learning new concepts, tools, and techniques throughout the PhD program. The candidate must demonstrate good written and communication skills.
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| Preferred Discipline of the Applicant |
Pharmaceutical Science
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| Faculty Name |
Nirmal J
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| Faculty Web Page |
https://www.bits-pilani.ac.in/hyderabad/nirmal-jayabalan/
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