Varanasi, 20.06.2023: Banaras Hindu University has achieved another research milestone with the granting of German patent for its work on the identification of tri-target antiviral activity of Sominone phytomolecule against the SARS CoV2 virus. The study has been carried out by the researchers at Centre for Genetic Disorders, and Department of Zoology, Institute of Science, led by Prof. Parimal Das, and comprising Prashant Ranjan (Ph.D. Scholar), Neha (Ph.D. Scholar), Chandra Devi (Ph.D. Scholar), Dr. Garima Jain (Malaviya Post-Doctoral Fellow), and Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Mohapatra (Associate Prof).
Sominone, a new antiviral molecule derived from Aswagandha, has demonstrated a remarkable 96 percent inhibition of the SARS CoV2 virus. The research team has been working tirelessly for the past three years to identify and harness the unique properties of Sominone. This significant breakthrough has led to the development of a system that targets three crucial proteins of the SARS CoV2 virus essential for its survival: Mpro, ORF8, and RdRp.
The newly granted German patent is a testament to the team’s dedication and commitment to advancing the field of antiviral research. It further solidifies their position as leaders in the fight against the SARS-CoV2 virus. This patent recognizes the innovative approach and the potential impact of the research in developing effective treatments for COVID-19.
Prof. Parimal Das, the principal investigator of the project, expressed his excitement over this achievement. He said, “We are thrilled to have been granted a second international patent for our research on Sominone. This is a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to combat the SARS-CoV2 virus. We hope that our findings will contribute to the development of novel antiviral therapies and ultimately help in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Centre for Genetic Disorders and Zoology Department at BHU are renowned for their cutting-edge research in the field of molecular biology and genetics. This latest accomplishment is a demonstration of their unwavering dedication to scientific excellence and their relentless pursuit of innovative solutions to global health challenges.
