Come out with newer drugs, young scientists told

JSS Varsity inks pact with Penn State; focus on research

As the debate is on to regulate the prices of essential drugs and pharma companies reluctant on investing on newer drugs, the onus is on the budding scientists to explore and achieve, said vice-chancellor of JSS University B Suresh.

Addressing a gathering of doctors, scientists and students at the opening of two-day Indo-US symposium on ‘Molecular pharmacology and applied therapeutics’ at JSS Pharmacy College here on Tuesday, the V-C pithily said ‘there is a tapering effect in the field of drug discovery in the last one decade.’

The realm is no more an exciting task as it banks not only on huge funding, but also brains. Even after a decade long hard work, one may end up with a plant with medicinal content, still the chances are meagre. In this wake, the only hope is on the institutes with young talents, the V-C added.

Disclosing the plans ahead, the V-C said that the varsity is encouraging integration of faculty for advancements in the field of science and technology. Unlike earlier where clinical side was not associating in the initial stages of drug discovery, the stress is on bringing all the faculty; clinical, dental, pharmacy together for the cause.

Saying that the Vision Group of Science and Technology, of State government has given centre of excellence status to the department of bio-chemistry, the V-C said that the recognition will motivate the varsity in making further strides. The varsity will partner with like-minded institutes for progress in the fields of molecular pharmacology and applied therapeutics for the benefit of mankind.

The V-C was happy to note that they are wooing back the talents of India settled abroad adding to the manpower in the field of bio-chemistry. He cited the example of one Subbarao who has returned to his roots.

Referring to a compendium of second volume on plants with medicinal qualities released on the occasion, the V-C said that the intention is to make people aware about natural resources. Another compendium on drug delivery systems is in the making, he added.

Earlier, registrar of the varsity Dr B Manjunatha exchanged a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Elliot S Vessel professor and chair, department of pharmacology at Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pensylvania, Kent E Vrana.

Speaking to media later, Vrana said by inking a pact both the institutes will have exchange of students and faculties. The emphasis will be on researches in the area of preventing Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.  He said that the institute is actively engaged in training next generation scientists and chemists and will find ways to collaborate and meet medical requirements.

Pro-chancellor of JSS University and executive secretary of JSS Mahavidyapeetha B N Betkerur, Prof Richard B Mailman from the department of pharmacology, Penn State, principal of JSS Medical College Dr H Basavanagowdappa and others were present.