Panjab University has filed both Indian and international patent applications for a groundbreaking green nanomicelle platform that promises to transform drug delivery across multiple industries. The innovation, developed by Professor Indu Pal Kaur and her PhD scholars Bakr Ahmed and Simrandeep Kaur, offers a sustainable approach to delivering sensitive bioactive compounds.
The eco-friendly, solvent-free platform enables the safe, targeted delivery of peptides, herbal extracts, cannabinoids, vitamins, proteins, and small molecules—compounds valued for their therapeutic, regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and immune-supporting properties. What sets this technology apart is its clean-label development process that operates at room temperature, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals or energy-intensive manufacturing.
"Our nanoplatform is built for affordability, adaptability, and clean science. It supports MSMEs and global players alike in developing safe, effective, and sustainable products," said Professor Kaur, who leads the Innovation Packed Kit (IPK) Lab at Panjab University.
Versatile Applications Across Multiple Industries
The nanomicelle platform has demonstrated broad potential across pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, pediatrics, veterinary care, and wellness industries. In a significant milestone for academia-industry collaboration, the university has already transferred the technology for skincare and cosmetics applications to an industrial partner.
The platform's design philosophy of "Simplicity meets Versatility" allows for remarkable flexibility. When necessary, minimal quantities of USFDA-permitted solvents can be incorporated to accommodate poorly soluble active ingredients without compromising safety or scalability—a critical feature for pharmaceutical applications where drug solubility often presents challenges.
From Laboratory Innovation to Commercial Reality
Professor Kaur, often referred to as the "Patent Queen of India," has built an impressive portfolio of intellectual property with over 22 granted patents and 17 filed applications. Her IPK Lab operates under the philosophy of "Innovation to Reality," focusing on translating research challenges into practical solutions.
"I never shy away from late evening discussions or sleepless nights searching for a solution. The journey from a research obstacle to a societal solution is where my lab thrives," Professor Kaur explained.
The commercialization of this technology aligns with India's 'Make in India' initiative, promoting domestically developed technologies that can compete globally. Professor Kaur emphasized that working with industry partners goes beyond licensing innovations—it's about "co-creating impact" through deeper, long-term partnerships centered on technology transfer and mutual growth.
Institutional Support for Innovation
Professor Kaur credited Panjab University's progressive ecosystem for enabling researchers to engage seamlessly with industry partners. She highlighted the university's forward-thinking approach in establishing the Centre for Industry-Institute Partnership Programme (CIIPP) in 1996, which introduced a revenue-sharing model between the university and faculty members.
Professor Renu Vig, Vice Chancellor of Panjab University, expressed pride in the institution's commitment to translational research: "I am happy to note that faculty members are translating laboratory research into innovations that serve industry and society. Such work not only enhances our academic standing but also leads to the development of affordable, high-quality products that improve lives."
Technical Advantages and Future Potential
The nanomicelle platform represents a significant advancement in drug delivery technology. Traditional methods for delivering sensitive bioactive compounds often struggle with stability issues, poor bioavailability, and manufacturing complexities. This green technology addresses these challenges through its innovative approach to encapsulation and delivery.
By enabling room-temperature processing and eliminating the need for harsh solvents, the platform not only reduces environmental impact but also preserves the integrity of delicate bioactive compounds. This is particularly valuable for peptides, proteins, and natural extracts that can degrade under conventional processing conditions.
As pharmaceutical companies increasingly seek sustainable manufacturing processes and improved delivery systems for complex molecules, this innovation positions Panjab University at the forefront of green pharmaceutical technology development. The successful technology transfer to the cosmetics sector demonstrates the platform's immediate commercial viability, with potential applications in drug delivery likely to follow.
