Milestone: BHU scientists get another German patent

Varanasi: The scientists of Banaras Hindu University achieved another research milestone with getting a German patent for their work on the identification of tri-target antiviral activity of Sominone phytomolecule against the SARS CoV2 virus. The study leads to development of a system that targets three crucial proteins of SARS CoV2 virus.

Earlier, the BHU scientists were granted a German patent for coming up with a novel therapeutic approach against COVID-19 using sominifericin, a phyto molecule which inhibits the growth and proliferation of the SARS CoV-2 virus.

The study was carried out by the researchers at Centre for genetic disorders, and the department of Zoology, Institute of Science, led by the principal investigator, Prof Parimal Das. The other members of the team include Prashant Ranjan, Neha, Chandra Devi, Garima Jain and Bhagyalaxmi Mohapatra.

Prof Das said that Sominone, a new antiviral molecule derived from Aswagandha, has demonstrated a remarkable 96 per cent 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.

He said that 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.

“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,” said Prof Das, expressing his excitement over this achievement.

BHU mountaineering team flagged off: An 18-member team of students of the University Mountaineering Center,BHU was flagged off on Monday from Malviya Bhavan. The centre in-charge Prof Anil Kumar Singh said that the team will complete its training at Swargarohini base under the leadership of trainers Balram Yadav and Shivnarayan Yadav. It will reach its destination by travelling about 45 km on foot and will return on July 2.