In a significant move to address chronic kidney disease (CKD) complications, Zydus Lifesciences has announced a collaborative research agreement with the Lucknow-based CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) to develop an innovative oral medication targeting chronic kidney disease-induced osteoporosis.

The partnership will focus on discovering small molecule inhibitors of Sclerostin, a protein that plays a key role in bone metabolism. Under the agreement, both organizations will conduct joint preclinical research to identify promising drug candidates. Zydus has committed to further develop any successful candidates for both the Indian market and international distribution.

“CSIR-CDRI’s extensive expertise in biomedical research, combined with Zydus’ pioneering approach to drug discovery, creates a powerful synergy,” stated Pankaj Patel, Chairman of Zydus Lifesciences. “Together, we aim to explore new avenues for treating bone metabolism disorders, ensuring that CKD patients have access to effective and affordable therapies that significantly enhance their quality of life.”

Chronic kidney disease is a pressing global health concern, affecting over 10% of the population worldwide. It leads to a gradual decline in kidney function, which can culminate in kidney failure. The collaboration aims to fill the treatment gap for CKD-related bone disorders, an area often overlooked in therapeutic development.

Radha Rangarajan, Director of CSIR-CDRI, emphasized the complementary strengths of both organizations. “This partnership reflects our shared mission to tackle India’s unmet healthcare needs through innovative therapies. Such public-private collaborations have the potential to drive cutting-edge research and development for novel drugs in India,” he remarked.

As the collaboration unfolds, Zydus shares saw a minor decline of 0.54%, trading at Rs 1,062.60 on the Bombay Stock Exchange on Friday.

This partnership not only highlights the growing trend of public-private collaborations in India’s pharmaceutical landscape but also signifies hope for millions affected by CKD and its debilitating side effects.