Current Affairs - Education - Discussion

Researchers at IIT Madras developed a patented, cost-effective injectable hydrogel using silk cocoons and seaweed for the treatment of fibrosis and other degenerative conditions. The hydrogel is biodegradable and biocompatible, and it transforms from a liquid into a gel at body temperature, allowing it to adapt to the treatment site. The innovation aims to reduce therapy costs significantly, from around USD 2,000–3,000 to nearly USD 300. It has potential applications in treating pulmonary, liver, kidney, and muscle fibrosis, as well as Sarcopenia. The research was led by Prof. Vignesh Muthuvijayan and Ms Varshiny Gopinath of IIT Madras.