Hyderabad has made a remarkable breakthrough in biotechnology. Tulsi Therapeutics, a startup nurtured at ASPIRE-BioNEST at the University of Hyderabad, has achieved the world’s first successful animal trial using a new stem cell-exosome therapy for chronic liver failure.
The innovative product, Tulsi-28X, is a pioneering treatment derived from Wharton’s Jelly stem cells and their exosomes. This combination is unique and had not been tested on animals before. Though the idea started in the United States, the development occurred in India over three years at ASPIRE-BioNEST.
Global experts like Dr. Naga Chalasani from Indiana University and Dr. Ajay Duseja from PGIMER, Chandigarh collaborated on the preclinical trial. Results showed that all animals treated with Tulsi-28X experienced liver regeneration with no deaths. In contrast, only 14% recovery and 43% deaths were recorded in the untreated group.
Dr. Sairam Atluri, Founder & CEO of Tulsi Therapeutics, highlighted the achievement’s significance for India’s biotech industry. He acknowledged ASPIRE-BioNEST’s role in turning their vision into reality and noted the upcoming challenge of human trials. The study paves the way for a new class of liver disease treatments.
The findings were shared at the AASLD 2024 Liver Conference in San Diego and will be published in the Journal of Regenerative Medicine. Tulsi Therapeutics leads globally as the first to develop a dual stem cell-exosome biologic. Tulsi-28X aids liver repair by releasing regenerative proteins and growth factors.
Dr. Ravi Bonthala, Chief Scientific Officer, emphasized their dedication to creating high-quality, affordable regenerative solutions. The next move is human trials in partnership with Nizam’s Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS).
Chronic liver failure poses a major health challenge in India, causing nearly 20% of global liver-related deaths. With transplantation as the sole current treatment, Tulsi-28X could revolutionize care options.
Prof. B.J. Rao, Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad, praised the innovation-driven ecosystem in India. He acknowledged the role of institutions and incubators like ASPIRE-BioNEST in delivering groundbreaking biotech products.
Dr. Anil Kondreddy, CEO of ASPIRE-BioNEST, expressed pride in Tulsi Therapeutics’ success, which aligns with their mission to advance impactful scientific innovation. The achievement signifies the strength of academic excellence and the potential for global breakthroughs in regenerative medicine.
