IIT Hyderabad researchers develop cheaper stem cell technology using marine waste

NEW DELHI, AUGUST 26: Researchers at IIT Hyderabad have successfully produced a tissue-rebuilding protein that is capable of growing stem cells used for treating diseases such as cancer. The protein named collagen which is produced from discarded eel fish skin is capable of growing and attracting stem cells which are known to repair damaged skin tissues.

Traditionally, the protein is produced from animal sources such as rat tails which create additional problems such as the spread of diseases. By creating the same from common marine waste such as eel fish skin, researchers have found a cheaper viable method for extracting the protein.

“We have explored the use of discarded eel skin to develop collagen-based biomaterials. The advantages of this extraction process are twofold. Not only does it serve to provide a sustainable and safe source for collagen but also helps in waste management,” said Dr. Subha Narayan Rath, Associate Professor, Department of Biomedical Engineering.

Researchers believe that such sustainable utilization of marine waste products will lead to the development of biotechnology that can create an alternate industry that converts waste into useful products.

The research, funded by the Department of Science and Technology-Science and Engineering Research Board, Government of India, was led by Dr. Mano Govindharaj, Young Scientist Fellow, Dr. Subha Narayan Rath, and Research Scholar Uday Kiran Roopavath.