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Pre-formulation and Solid-form Screening of BCS Class-II/IV Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients

Status: New

Lab/Organization
Name & address of the Laboratory/Organization CSIR - National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (NIIST)
Website address https://www.niist.res.in
Affiliated to which Department/Ministry Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
CSR Registration Number CSR0001742
Registration under 12A
Registration under 80G
Name of the CSR Nodal Dr. P. Nishy
Contact information of CSR Nodal 9645086468, nishy@niist.res.in
Principal Investigator Dr. Sunil Varughese, s. varughese@niist.res.in
Co- Principal Investigator (Co-PI)
Project Detail
Objective on the basis of need

• Polymorph Identification: Novel API polymorphs well characterized using XRPD, DSC/TGA, and IR to assess structure, stability, properties and phase-transformation.

• Multi-Component Systems: Co-crystals, salts, eutectics, and amorphous forms with enhanced solubility and dissolution, characterized via XRPD, DSC, and FTIR.

• Solubility Enhancement: Evaluate solubility and dissolution of solid forms using dissolution testing and intrinsic solubility measurements.

• Mechanochemical Synthesis: Use solvent-free methods (e.g., ball milling) for efficient, environmentally friendly solid form production.

• Structure-Property Correlations: Drawing correlations between the observed properties with respect to the underlying crystal structure and molecular arrangement.

• Regulatory Considerations: Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and conduct in vivo studies for efficacy.

Executive summary of the proposed project (In 250 words)

Solid form screening and polymorphism are critical in the pharmaceutical industry as they significantly impact the physicochemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), such as solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Polymorphs, different crystalline forms of an API, can exhibit distinct properties, with some polymorphs offering enhanced dissolution rates and better therapeutic outcomes. For example, the polymorphic forms of ritonavir were pivotal in the development of a more stable and bioavailable formulation, preventing manufacturing issues with the initial form. Solid form screening also plays a key role in regulatory compliance, as the FDA and other regulatory agencies require detailed characterization of solid forms to ensure product consistency and quality. Understanding polymorphism allows manufacturers to choose the optimal form for formulation and manufacturing, reducing the risk of regulatory delays. Additionally, polymorphs and other solid forms, such as salts or co-crystals, have substantial intellectual property (IPR) implications. By identifying novel forms, pharmaceutical companies can secure patents and gain competitive advantages. The case of imatinib mesylate, where the mesylate salt form was developed to enhance solubility and patent protection, demonstrates how solid form manipulation can be crucial for market exclusivity. Ultimately, solid form screening and polymorphism are integral to optimizing drug formulations, meeting regulatory requirements, and protecting intellectual property, ensuring both the commercial success and therapeutic efficacy of pharmaceutical products.
 

Technology Readiness Level (If not a new project but an advancement of existing know how) 2-3
Outomes or Deliverables

Novel crystal forms with thorough data on their structure, stability, solubility and other relevant physicochemical properties.
 

Project aligned with which most relevant UN SDGs Goal 3 - Good Health & Well-Being
Duration (In years) 0.5-1 year per API
Expected Impact

New solid forms with enhanced therapeutic efficacy
 

Implementation model (self- implemented/ outsourced partnership) All the screening and characterization of the solid forms can be carried out within the Institute, while the in-vitro/in-vivo studies needs to be carried out in collaboration with other laboratories
Total Budget (Recurring +Non-Recurring Expenses) 4-5 lakhs per API