VeGen Labs secures BIRAC funding of Rs 3.76 Cr to advance KRAS inhibitor

Marking a significant step toward clinical development for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer treatment

Hyderabad-based biotechnology startup VeGen Labs LLP has been awarded Rs 3.765 crore Royalty-based financial support from Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a Government of India enterprise set-up by Department of Biotechnology.

This funding will support Investigational New Drug (IND)-enabling toxicology studies for IND126, a novel KRAS inhibitor, marking a significant step toward clinical development for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) patients in India. 

Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in India, with NSCLC accounting for approximately 85% of all lung cancer cases. Each year, India reports over 70,000 new lung cancer cases, with many patients diagnosed at advanced stages where targeted therapies, such as KRAS inhibitors, could provide life-changing treatment options. With increasing awareness, early diagnosis, and access to advanced therapies, the Indian NSCLC market is poised for significant growth, creating a strong demand for innovative cancer treatments. 

The BIRAC funding will enable comprehensive toxicology assessments, a critical step in preparing for IND submission with regulatory agencies. Upon successful completion, VeGen Labs will be positioned to initiate first-in-human clinical trials, further strengthening India’s role in cutting-edge drug discovery and precision oncology. 

As the first Indian biotech company developing a KRAS inhibitor for both domestic and global markets, VeGen Labs is setting new benchmarks for Indian-led breakthroughs in oncology drug discovery.

VeGen Labs extends its sincere gratitude to BIRAC and Department of Biotechnology, Government of India for their invaluable support, particularly at a time when private and venture funding for biotech innovation in India remains scarce. This backing plays a crucial role in advancing groundbreaking research and fostering innovation.

Published on : 04th March, 2025