IIT Roorkee Develops New Antibody Discovery Platform to Transform Diagnostics

The platform enables rapid identification of highly stable and high-affinity antibodies for infectious diseases, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and emerging pathogens.

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have announced the development of a next-generation antibody discovery platform with the potential to transform diagnostics and therapeutics for a wide range of diseases.

The research involves the creation of an ultra-large, high-diversity single-domain antibody, or nanobody, library. According to the team, the platform enables rapid identification of highly stable and high-affinity antibodies for infectious diseases, cancer, autoimmune disorders, and emerging pathogens.

By significantly reducing antibody discovery timelines, the platform is expected to address a critical gap in healthcare response, particularly during public health emergencies where speed and accuracy are vital.

“By developing a universal, high-diversity antibody discovery system within India, we are strengthening national capabilities for faster disease response and accelerating the development of affordable diagnostics and therapeutics for populations that need them the most,” said Prof. Rajesh Kumar, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Roorkee.

The research aligns with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India and is especially relevant for low- and middle-income countries, where access to timely and cost-effective healthcare solutions remains a persistent challenge.

The initiative also underscores the importance of strengthening indigenous research capabilities, generating intellectual property, and reducing reliance on imported biologics. It complements national efforts to promote translational research, enhance pandemic preparedness, and build long-term healthcare resilience.

“This development demonstrates how fundamental research, combined with translational intent and industry collaboration, can address pressing societal challenges,” said Prof. K. K. Pant, Director, IIT Roorkee.

To support real-world deployment, IIT Roorkee has entered into a strategic industry–academia collaboration to facilitate technology transfer, scale-up, and validation of antibody-based solutions.

As part of this effort, the institute has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with IMGENEX India to promote collaborative research, co-development of advanced biologics, and capacity building in areas including antibody engineering, diagnostics, therapeutics, and bioprocess development.

Stay tuned for more such updates on Digital Health News