Page 189 - CW E-Magazine (24-10-2023)

Special Report

The prospects of deuterated compounds in India

ver the last four decades, life sci- tion of the synthesis and EILEEN MCCRACKEN
ence in India has grown to be a application of deuterated Head of Diagnostics & Regulated
Osunrise industry, one even more compounds. Spanning Materials, Science & Lab Solutions
critical in the post-pandemic era – when from catalysis and or- Merck Life Science
governments and organisations the world ganic chemistry to mate-
over realised the immense potential and rials science, heavy water the forefront of research and applica-
strategic nature of this industry. Notable for remains an essential re- tions related to deuterium. Furthermore,
its scale and vigour, the life science space source in a myriad of research fi elds. This it fosters international collaboration
encompasses a wide array of specialised highlights signifi cant growth prospects and in this fi eld.
niches, including technology, research, potential within the academic community
manufacturing pharmaceuticals, healthcare as well as industrial applications. Future growth
and more. Within this multifaceted land- Commencing from 2022, the heavy
scape lies the promising but relatively less- Here are several factors that contribute water industry market has experienced con-
er-known domain of deuterated compounds to the promising prospect of these com- sistent growth. It is expected to witness ac-
extracted from heavy water. pounds in the country: celerated growth in the period from 2023 to
2030, and is projected to touch $91.85-mn
Though acknowledged for its wide-  Pharmaceutical advancement: India’s by 2031. Deuterated compounds originat-
ranging utility in the nuclear industry, deute- pharmaceutical industry is internatio- ing from heavy water hold tremendous po-
rated compounds coming from heavy water nally acclaimed for its expertise in tential across sectors ranging from pharma-
have widespread applications in the life manufacturing generic drugs. Through ceuticals to energy. In heavy water, India is
sciences fi eld. These specialised com- the integration of deuterium into estab- actively engaged in a number of initiatives
pounds can alter the attributes of a drug lished medications, Indian pharmaceu- such as D-labelled compounds, nuclear fuel
candidate, and improve the therapeutic lon- tical initiatives can elevate medicine ef- cycle, semiconductor and display produc-
gevity of drugs in the bloodstream, among fectiveness and safety, paving the way tion, among others. These compounds carry
other applications. However, the advantages for fresh prospects in drug research and the potential to bring about a transformation
of deuterated compounds range further than advancement. in advanced chemical applications, and its
just enhanced drug effectiveness. India, as  Chemical research: India has a rich prospective benefi ts in drug discovery can

a leading player in the life science sector, history and leading position of chemistry- help India achieve quicker, more effi cient,
is rapidly developing a domestic industry related scientifi c research. Researchers and cost-effective clinical trials. Through
for deuterated compounds. Researchers and within the country can play a pivotal creating a conducive regulatory environ-
businesses in India are actively exploring role in investigating the synthesis and ment and capitalising on the opportunities
and harnessing the potential of heavy water. utilisation of deuterated compounds, offered by deuterated compounds, India can
Globally, India is one of the leading pro- contributing to advancements across contribute to scientifi c progress, economic
ducers of heavy water and also is a major various fi elds, including catalysis, or- growth, and improved healthcare outcomes.
hub of pharmaceutical production, a unique ganic chemistry, and materials science.
combination that presents a signifi cant  Energy and environment: Deuterium, CONCLUSION

development opportunity for the country. a crucial component in nuclear fusion, The future of heavy water compounds
holds the potential for a clean and in the Indian market is undoubtedly bright.
Wide range of applications virtually boundless energy source. From nuclear energy to pharmaceuticals,
Given India’s dynamic scientifi c com- India’s interest in harnessing nuclear research, and hydrogen technology, the
munity and thriving pharmaceutical sector, fusion for energy production could diverse applications of D O present a multi-
2
the country is in a favourable position to result in an increased demand for tude of growth avenues. India’s advance-
delve into the many possibilities of deute- deuterium and deuterated compounds. ments in these industries, combined with
rated compounds as well as to export them  Collaboration: Collaborative initiatives strategic foresight and innovative approaches,

globally. Currently, India boasts a rich heri- with international research institutions will determine the extent to which the
tage of academic excellence and a strong and companies can facilitate the ex- nation can harness the enormous potential
presence in the fi eld of chemical research. change of knowledge and technology of heavy water compounds, thereby paving
Within the country, researchers and sci- transfer. This, in turn, empowers Indian the path toward a more sustainable and
entists have a pivotal role in the explora- scientists and businesses to remain at technologically advanced future.

Chemical Weekly October 24, 2023 189

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