In a promising stride towards addressing the long-standing challenges of bone health in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow, has identified a protein called Sclerostin as a potential game-changer. The breakthrough, based on extensive research and data from antibody-based therapies (biologics), highlights Sclerostin’s pivotal role in disrupting bone metabolism, paving the way for innovative treatment approaches.

The research findings underscore that Sclerostin levels are significantly elevated in individuals with advanced stages of CKD and osteoporosis, suggesting its strong association with bone degeneration. This has prompted CDRI to explore the development of targeted therapies, potentially transforming the landscape of CKD-related bone health management.

To further this research and develop an oral medication, CDRI has entered into a collaborative agreement with Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, Ahmedabad. Under this partnership, the two organizations will work together to discover and develop small molecule inhibitors of Sclerostin, with Zydus spearheading preclinical research and subsequent drug development for India and global markets.

Tackling a Global Health Challenge

CKD is a growing global health concern, affecting over 10% of the world’s population. One of its major complications is the disruption of mineral metabolism, which significantly elevates the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. This risk is particularly acute in women over the age of 65. Conventional osteoporosis treatments often pose a threat to renal function, making them unsuitable for CKD patients and amplifying the need for new, safer therapies.

“Conventional anti-osteoporosis medications are often contraindicated in CKD patients due to the potential risk of further deteriorating kidney function. Our research aims to bridge this therapeutic gap,” stated Dr. Radha Rangarajan, Director, CSIR-CDRI.

Innovative Partnership to Drive Therapeutic Advancements

The collaborative research agreement between CDRI and Zydus represents a union of complementary expertise. While CSIR-CDRI brings a rich legacy of biomedical research to the table, Zydus leverages its cutting-edge approach to drug discovery and development. The partnership is set to unlock new opportunities for addressing the complex interplay between CKD and bone metabolism disorders.

“CSIR-CDRI has made significant strides in the field of bone metabolism research under the leadership of Dr. Naibedya Chattopadhyay. Partnering with Zydus will accelerate the translation of these findings into viable treatment options, addressing India’s unmet medical needs,” said Dr. Rangarajan.

Echoing similar sentiments, Mr. Pankaj Patel, Chairman of Zydus Lifesciences Ltd, remarked, “The synergy between CDRI’s deep-rooted expertise and our innovative approach will pave the way for effective and affordable therapies. This collaboration aligns with our mission to ensure CKD patients have access to treatments that enhance their quality of life.”

A Future of Better Outcomes for CKD Patients

The partnership between CDRI and Zydus is a significant step forward in developing safe and effective therapies that mitigate fracture risks in CKD patients without compromising their renal health. As research progresses, the identification of Sclerostin as a therapeutic target brings hope for the creation of groundbreaking treatments that could transform the way CKD-induced osteoporosis is managed globally.

With their combined strengths and shared vision, CDRI and Zydus are poised to set new standards in the treatment of bone metabolism disorders, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for countless CKD patients.