Dr.Kumaran A

Dr.Kumaran A

Dr. A Kumaran is a Senior Principal Scientist at Agroprocessing and Technology Division, CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram-695019, India. He is an associate professor under the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India. He obtained his PhD in Natural Product Chemistry from the University of Madras and completed his post-doctoral research in Food Science & Technology at National Taiwan University. He is a gold medalist in M. Sc. Chemistry and completed his M. Phil. in Organic chemistry. Possess around 30 years of research experience, out of which 23 years in the industry for the development of herbal and pharmaceutical products. He worked in several Indian companies, such as SUN Pharma, SPIC Pharma, SAMI Labs, SANMAR, and HLL Lifecare Limited. Dr. Kumaran has achieved notable success in formulating and standardizing 16 herbal preparations. These formulations include Ayurviva, designed for liver diseases; Lovanthin for Hepatitis B, SPIC herbal cough syrup, Spinta cream for pain relief; and ULIXIR as uterine tonic, among others. His current research focuses on biologically active natural products derived from plants traditionally used by local communities in tropical and subtropical areas as foods or medicines, and development of phytopharmaceuticals for various ailments, and also the development of low-cost generic pharmaceutical products particularly BCS class II and IV drugs and Novel Drug Delivery System. Presently, he is leading a team to develop phytopharmaceuticals for Diabetes mellitus, Rheumatoid arthritis, Reproductive health, and Alzheimer’s disease. He has several publications with an overall citation of 4200 and 10 patents.

Key Profile

  • Scientist with 30 years of research experience, including 23 years in the pharmaceutical industry
  • Expert in Herbal Drug Development, Nutraceuticals, Phytopharmaceuticals and APIs
  • Extensive experience in pharmaceutical formulations, specializing in BCS Class II and IV drugs and the advancement of Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS).
  • Focused on developing phytopharmaceutical solutions for Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Reproductive Health, and Alzheimer’s Disease.
Professional Experience

CSIR-NIIST (Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India) - Principal Scientist (Jun’18 - Jun’23) & Senior Principal Scientist - Jun’23 - Present
Notable accomplishments

  • Established fully-fledged formulation development and quality control lab
  • Executed an MoU with Kerala State Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited, leading to the development of nine pharmaceutical API formulations and successful technology transfer.
  • Developed a nanoemulgel formulation product for the management of rheumatic pain: Rheumaniist
  • Developed a novel and water-soluble sustained-release steam inhalation liquid: NiiSTEAM
  • Developed an alcohol-based herbal hand sanitizer gel: CLEANiiST
  • Developed an indigenous formulation technology for conversion of Ayurvedic medicated oils to modern dosage forms to increase user compliance and efficacy
  • Method development for quality evaluation of Ayurvedic commercial products using HPLC/HPTLC
  • Developing Phytopharmaceuticals for the Selected Therapeutic Targets of Type-II Diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis, Reproductive health, and Alzheimer’s disease

HLL Lifecare Ltd (Trivandrum, Kerala, India) - Scientist-E2 - Jun’12- Jun’18 (6 years)
Notable Accomplishments

  • Herbal based product development in health care segment (particularly for reproductive health)
  • Development of herbal based commercial products (e.g. Uterine tonic, Stretch mark cream etc.,)
  • Development an herbal based condom for erectile dysfunction, product for PCOS, etc.
  • Succeeded to receive three research grants from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) (Total of Rs. 7.8 crores) as Co.P.I.
  • Developed a herbal based product for Bacterial vaginosis in collaboration with an eminent Scientist G.P. Talwar, Talwar Research Foundation, New Delhi

SANMAR Specialty Chemicals Ltd (Hosur, Tamilnadu, India) - Joint Manager - Aug’09- June’12 (3 years)
Notable Accomplishments

  • Biotransformation/bioconversion of biopharmaceuticals using microbes/enzymes (e.g. the conversion of Colchicine to Colchicoside)
  • New product development and Isolation of plant-derived drugs in bulk level (Colchicine, Thiocolchicoside, connesine, etc)
  • Semi-synthetic modification and structure elucidation of plant secondary metabolites using NMR, MASS, UV, IR, LC-MS and GC-MS spectroscopic techniques.
  • Supported the production activities, assigned research projects, follow-up and guidance to subordinates

National Taiwan University (Graduate Institute of Food Science and Technology, TAIWAN) - Post-Doctoral Fellow - Sep’07-Jul’ 09 (2 years)
Notable Accomplishments

  • Bioassay-guided Isolation of active compounds for Alzheimer’s disease from Traditional Chinese Medicines
  • Development of new analytical methods for Chinese Medicines and food products using sophisticated chromatographic instruments, like HPLC, GC, LC-MS/MS, etc.
  • Experience with in-vitro assay methodologies and cell culture techniques (PC12, HepG2, Caco-2 cell lines, etc.)
  • Investigation of metabolites of food products after fermentation with GRAS bacteria/yeasts
  • Documentation of the research work in international journals

SAMI Labs Limited (Organica Aromatics Pvt. Ltd) - (Bangalore, India, an Indian subsidiary of Sabinsa Corporation, New Jersey, USA) - Senior Scientist - Aug’06-Aug’ 07 (1 year)
Notable Accomplishments

  • New product development which leads to flavour and fragrance
  • Isolation and characterization of fragrance constituents from plant sources
  • Synthesis and commercialization of fragrance materials

SPIC Pharmaceuticals Division (R&D Centre, Maraimalai Nagar, Chennai, India) - Senior Research associate - Apr’96-Jul’03 (7 years)
Notable Accomplishments

  • Successfully developed and standardized 16 herbal formulations for various ailments
  • More than 60 phytochemical markers were isolated, characterized and commercialized
  • Involved in the investigations on the pharmacological and taxonomic applications of secondary metabolites and their role as Anti-HIV, Anti-HBV, Anti-HSV, antifungal agents (about 160 plants, 600 fractions were screened)
  • Development of new analytical methods for herbal drugs and validation of methods using sophisticated liquid chromatographic instruments, like HPLC, GC, HPTLC etc.
  • Semi-synthetic modification and structure elucidation of plant secondary metabolites to improve the activity against various ailments
  • Seconded the preparation of SOPs, GMPs and GLPs related documents

SUN Pharma (formerly, Tamilnadu Dadha Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Chennai, India) -  Quality Control Chemist - May’95-Mar’96 (1 year)  
Notable Accomplishments

  • Conducted chemical and Instrumental analyses of raw materials, in-process samples and finished products
  • Involved in development and validation of analytical methods

Annamalai University (Annamalai Nagar, Tamilnadu, India) - Resource Person - May’94-Apr’95 (1 year)
Notable Accomplishments

  • Involved in the teaching of theoretical and practical chemistry to M.Sc. Chemistry students
Area of Expertise
  1. Formulation Development of Herbal Drugs

    Formulation development of herbal drugs focuses on transforming natural plant-based ingredients into safe, effective, and stable therapeutic products. This process involves the selection of bioactive herbal extracts, optimization of formulations to enhance bioavailability, and ensuring product stability through rigorous testing. Advanced techniques, including novel drug delivery systems, are employed to improve therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance. The development process adheres to stringent quality control and regulatory standards to ensure the safety and consistency of the final product, bridging traditional knowledge with modern pharmaceutical science. The following products were developed using nanoemulgel/nanoemulsion technology and available for licencing.

    Novel
  2. Formulation Development of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API)

    Our research concentrates on developing advanced formulations for Class II and IV active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), which are challenging due to limited dissolution rates and bioavailability issues. We employ advanced drug delivery systems like nanoparticles, solid dispersions, and self-emulsifying systems to enhance solubility and dissolution rates. These tailored approaches aim to improve pharmacokinetic profiles, therapeutic efficacy, and patient outcomes while maintaining cost-efficiency in drug development.

    Developed a new formulation methodology for cost-effective production of the following generic APIs

    (i)Mycophenolate mofetil
    (ii)Linezolid
    (iii)Tranexamic acid
    (iv)Capecitabine
    (v)Levetiracetam
    (vi)Albendazole
    (vii)Hydroxychloroquine
    (viii)Furosemide    		 API
  3. Development of proprietary polyherbal formulations: Farm to Pharm

    Development of proprietary polyherbal formulations involves the strategic combination of multiple medicinal plant extracts to create synergistic therapeutic effects. This process includes extensive research on the selection of botanicals, optimization of formulation techniques, and validation of safety and efficacy through preclinical and clinical studies. The focus is on ensuring product stability, scalability, and compliance with regulatory standards, ultimately delivering innovative and effective solutions for targeted health applications. Ployherbal immunomodulatory product (IMMUNIIST)was developed and available of licencing.

    Pharm
  4. Fundamental Research on Traditional Medicinal Plants: Phytochemicals, Therapeutic Efficacy

    Our laboratory's research focuses on the identification and validation of medicinal plants with potential therapeutic applications, particularly in metabolic and inflammatory disorders. Studies on Acacia leucophloea (Roxb.) Willd. have demonstrated its multi-targeted antidiabetic properties, with enriched phenolic and flavonoid fractions showing promising antioxidant and glucose uptake enhancement in L6 myotubes. Key bioactive compounds, including apigenin-7-O-glucoside and isoquercitrin, were structurally characterized for the first time from this plant and identified as potential DPP-IV inhibitors. In parallel, the anti-inflammatory properties of Cardiospermum halicacabum were investigated using a bioassay-guided approach. Two flavonoids, apigenin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide and diosmetin-7-O-β-D-glucuronide, were isolated, with DMG exhibiting potent inhibition of nitric oxide, reactive oxygen species, and proinflammatory cytokines in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Additionally, Baliospermum montanum leaves were studied for their anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrating significant inhibition of COX-2, 15-LOX, and nitric oxide production. Ethanol extracts and ethyl acetate fractions yielded four novel bioactive compounds, including afzelechin derivatives, which displayed potent anti-inflammatory activity. These studies validate the traditional uses of these plants and highlight their potential as natural therapeutic agents for diabetes and inflammation, paving the way for future nutraceutical and pharmaceutical applications.

    HPLC
  5. Novel Drug Delivery Systems
    Demonstrating L-arginine-phosphatidylcholine thermoresponsive gel for enhanced transdermal delivery and L-929 cell cytotoxicity evaluation.

    The vasodilator effect of L-arginine is important for managing angina pain and erectile dysfunction. We developed a thermoresponsive gel (LA-PC gel) using L-arginine-phosphatidylcholine complex for effective transdermal delivery. Characterization showed stability, small droplet size, and good viscoelastic behavior. Skin permeation studies revealed LA-PC gel's higher permeation rate compared to LA gel. Both gels showed non-toxicity. LA-PC gel may offer quicker and sustained release, making it promising for clinical applications.

    TEM
Achievements & Awards

Achievements and awards

  • PhD supervising guideship at Kerala University of Health Sciences (KUHAS) (2022 onwards)
  • Recipient of Three Vijay Diwas awards from HLL Lifecare Ltd for various achievements (2014, 2015, 2016)
  • Awardee of Two grants from Bill & Melinda Gates-Grant Challenge (as Co-Investigator) (2014, 2016)
  • Best performance award of the year - Sanmar Specialty Chemicals Ltd, India (2010)
  • Recipient of Post-Doctoral Fellowship by National Science Council, Taiwan (2009)
  • Recipient of Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) by CSIR (India) (2003)
  • Gold medal for first rank in M.Sc degree (1993)

Achievements and awards from students under mentorship

  • Best Oral Presentation Award Translational Research for The Future of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Practice (PHARMACIA’24) - Haripriya VM (2024)
  • Best Poster Award-International Ayurveda seminar conducted in 5th global Ayurveda festival - Abhirami BL (2023)
  • Best Oral Presentation Award - Molecular Docking and Spectral Interpretation (CHEM-RAPPORT 23), Haripriya VM (2023)
  • Best Poster Award - Advancement in Interpretation of Mass spectrometry and Artificial Intelligence in Pharmacy (PHARMAGRASP 2023), Haripriya VM (2023)
  • AcSIR-RMIT University Joint Ph.D. Program Fellowship (2023) - Anand Ganapathy. A
  • DHR-Young Scientist Project (2022) - Anand Ganapathy. A
  • ICMR-RA Fellowship (2021) - Dr. YG. Aparna
  • ICMR-SRF Fellowship (2021) - Haripriya VM
Patents & Publications

Patents:

  • A. Kumaran, Anand Ganapathy A. K, V.M. Hari priya, C.Alisha Valsan. Indian Appl. No. 202111015511), Sustained release liquid dosage form for steam inhalation
  • V. Suvekbala, L. Ragupathy and A. Kumaran, 633/CHE/2015, Developing a graphene (oxide)-based chemiluminescence (and/or) Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay diagnostic technology, and kit for determining the precise concentration of Anti-Müllerian Hormone, present in human serum
  • V. Suvekbala, L. Ragupathy and A. Kumaran, 512/CHE/2015, Developing a graphene (oxide)-based chemiluminescence (and/or) Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay diagnostic technology, and kit for determining the precise concentration of Lutenizing Hormone, present in human serum
  • V. Suvekbala, L. Ragupathy and A. Kumaran, 513/CHE/2015, Developing a graphene (oxide)-based chemiluminescence (and/or) Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay diagnostic technology, and kit for determining the precise concentration of Follicule Stimulating Hormone, present in human serum
  • L. Ragupathy, A Kumaran and G Rajmohan, PCT/IN2014/000711, Graphene based polymer composites for producing condoms with high heat transfer, improved sensitivity and capacity for drug delivery
  • L. Ragupathy, A Kumaran and V Suvekbala, 2319/CHE/2014, Producing poly(glycerol sebacate) condoms
  • L. Ragupathy and A Kumaran, 4256/CHE/2014, Poly(glycerol sebacate) based materials for food packaging applications
  • M.S. Premila, P.B. Janardhan and A. Kumaran, WO 00/56347, An enriched fraction prepared from Pyllanthus amarus for the treatment of hepatitis and the preparation thereof
  • M.S. Premila, P.B. Janardhan and A. Kumaran, IP339/MAS/99, An enriched fraction prepared from Pyllanthus amarus for the treatment of hepatitis and the preparation thereof
  • M.S. Premila, P.B. Janardhan and A. Kumaran, IP579/MAS/99, Active fractions prepared from the plant Pyllanthus amarus for the treatment of hepatitis

Publications:

  • Krishna AA, Abhirami BL, Kumaran A*. (2025) Pain in rheumatoid arthritis: Emerging role of high mobility group box 1 protein-HMGB1. Life Sciences, 362, 123361. doi: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.123361
  • Jasim ARM, Yuvaranjani S, Kumaran A*. (2024) Mitigating type 2 diabetes-Scientific validation of Biophytum sensitivum DC and Mimosa pudica L as substitutes for Cassia mimosoides L in Ayurvedic medicine. Pharmacological Research - Natural Products, 5, 100091. doi: 10.1016/j.prenap.2024.100091
  • Ganapathy AA, Hari Priya VM, Baby K, Bindhu S, Jayan R, Krishnamoorthi R, Sasidhar Balappa Somappa, Yogendra Nayak, Kumaran A*. (2024) Flavone-C-glycosides from Cassia auriculata L. as possible inhibitors of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5): In vitro, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics studies. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics. doi: 10.1080/07391102.2024.2431659
  • Li-Chan Yang, Yu-Tsung Lee, Kumaran A, Sui-Qing Huang, Chun-Han Su, Dai-Rong Wu, Tzung-Hai Yen, Chun-Hui Chiu. (2024) Target and non-target analysis with molecular network strategies for identifying potential index compounds from Momordica charantia L. for alleviating non-alcoholic fatty liver. Industrial Crops and Products, 219, 119014. doi: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2024.119014
  • Anjali Sobha, Anand Ganapathy, Sangeetha Mohan, Nithya Madhusoodanan, Alansheeja D. Babysulochana, Kumaran A, Sasidhar B. Somappa. (2024) Novel small molecule-based acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors: From biological perspective to recent developments. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry Reports, 100237. doi: 10.1016/j.ejmcr.2024.100237
  • Vijayakumari Mahadevan Hari Priya, Anand Ganapathy A, Midhu George Veeran, Shyni Raphael M, Kumaran A*. (2024) Nanotechnology-based drug delivery platforms for erectile dysfunction: Addressing efficacy, safety, and bioavailability concerns. Pharmaceutical Development and Technology, 29, 996-1015. doi: 10.1080/10837450.2024.2414379
  • Jasim ARM, Abhirami BL, Anto EM, George S, Jayamurthy P, Kumaran A*. (2024) Multimodal therapeutic amelioration of type 2 diabetes via bioactive compounds isolated from Cassia mimosoides L. South African Journal of Botany, 172, 567-578. doi: 10.1016/j.sajb.2024.07.060
  • Abhirami BL, Krishna AA, Bashi MB, Abhijith BS, Varghese AW, Kumaran A*. (2024) Isolation of potent 5α-reductase inhibitors and antioxidants from Sphaeranthus indicus Linn. for the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 1-7. doi: 10.1007/s11130-024-01226-2
  • Krishna AA, Abhirami BL, Jasim ARM, Priya S, Kumaran A*. (2024) Phytochemical profiling and therapeutic potential of Baliospermum montanum: A promising inhibitor of COX-2/15-LOX enzymes and NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. European Journal of Integrative Medicine, 69, 102377. doi: 10.1016/j.eujim.2024.102377
  • Krishna AA, Abhirami BL, Bashi MB, Jaice R, Jasim ARM, Kumaran A*. (2024) Identification and anti-inflammatory activity of flavonoids from Cardiospermum halicacabum in murine RAW 264.7 macrophage-A bioassay-guided approach. Food Bioscience, 61, 104510. doi: 10.1016/j.fbio.2024.104510
  • Krishnamoorthi R, Ganapathy A A, Hari Priya VM, Kumaran A*. (2024) Future aspects of plant-derived bioactive metabolites as therapeutics to combat benign prostatic hyperplasia. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 330, 118207. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118207
  • Priya VMH, Ganapathy AA, Veeran MG, Kumaran A*. (2024) L-arginine–phosphatidylcholine thermoresponsive gel for enhanced transdermal delivery and L-929 cell cytotoxicity evaluation. Journal of Dispersion Science and Technology. doi: 10.1080/01932691.2024.2312826
  • Abhirami BL, Aswathy Krishna A, Jasim ARM, Kumaran A*. (2024) Acacia leucophloea (Roxb.) Willd.: Multi-targeted therapeutic efficacy against type 2 diabetes mellitus. European Journal of Integrative Medicine, 66, 102344. doi: 10.1016/j.eujim.2024.102344
  • Sangeetha Mohan, Lekshmy Krishnan, Nithya Madhusoodanan, Anjali Sobha, Renjitha Jalaja, Kumaran A, Naveen Vankadari, Jayamurthy Purushothaman, Sasidhar B. Somappa. (2024) Linker-based pharmacophoric design and semisynthesis of labdane conjugates active against multi-faceted inflammatory targets. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. doi: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c09536
  • Ganapathy AA, Haripriya VM, Acharya N, Somappa SB, Kumaran A*. (2023) Ethnobotanical significance of medicinal plants: Beta‐amyloid and tau aggregation inhibitors against Alzheimer's disease. Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology, e23339. doi: 10.1002/jbt.23339
  • Priya VMH, Kumaran A*. (2023) Recent trends in phytosome nanocarriers for improved bioavailability and uptake of herbal drugs. Pharmaceutical Sciences, 29(3), 298-319. doi: 10.34172/PS.2023.6
  • Ajay Krishna MS, Sangeetha Mohan, KT Ashitha, Manasa Chandramouli, Kumaran A, Srikantamurthy Ningaiah, K Suresh Babu, Sasidhar B. Somappa. (2022) Marine-based natural products: Exploring recent developments in the identification of antimicrobial agents. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 19, e202200513. doi: 10.1002/cbdv.202200513
  • Lee YT, Pao LH, Chen CY, Huang SQ, Kumaran A, Chyuan JH, Chiu CH. (2022) Microwave- and ultrasound-assisted extraction of cucurbitane-type triterpenoids from Momordica charantia L. cultivars and their antiproliferative effect on SAS human oral cancer cells. Foods, 11(5), 729. doi: 10.3390/foods11050729
  • Anand Ganapathy A, Hari Priya VM, Kumaran A*. (2021) Medicinal plants as a potential source of phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors: A review. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 267, 113536. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113536
  • Thenmozhi Sukumar, Jeslin Varghese, Suja Bhargavan, Parvathy Jayasree, Vemparthan Suvekbala, Kumaran A, Lakshminarayanan Ragupathy. (2020) Cytotoxicity of formulated graphene and its natural rubber nanocomposite thin film in human vaginal epithelial cells: An influence of noncovalent interaction. Materials Today: Proceedings, 6.
  • Anand Ganapathy A, Kumaran A, Lekha GS. (2020) A review on prevention of COVID-19-Siddha perspective. International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine, 11(4), 594-615. doi: 10.47552/ijam.v11i4.1698
  • Haripriya VM, Dhamotharan K, Shukla SK, Suvekbala V, Ragupathy L, Kumaran A*. (2019) Aphrodisiac properties of hydro-alcoholic extract of Cassia auriculata flower in male rats. Andrologia, 51(2), e13180. doi: 10.1111/and.13180
  • Runcy Wilson, Anumon V. Divakaran, Anuraj Varyambath, Kumaran A, Swaminathan Sivaram, Lakshminarayanan Ragupathy*. (2018) Poly(glycerol sebacate)-based polyester–polyether copolymers and their semi-interpenetrated networks with thermoplastic poly(ester–ether) elastomers: Preparation and properties. ACS Omega, 3. doi: 10.1021/acsomega.8b02451
  • Gejo George, Suja Bhargavan Sisupal, Teenu Tomy, Kumaran A, Prabha Vadivelu, Vemparthan Suvekbala, Swaminathan Sivaram, Lakshminarayanan Ragupathy. (2018) Facile, environmentally benign, and scalable approach to produce pristine few-layer graphene suitable for preparing biocompatible polymer nanocomposites. Scientific Reports, 8, 11228. doi: 10.1038/s41598-018-28560-1
  • Kasinathan Mathiyazhagan, Kumaran A, Pandian Arjun. (2018) Isolation of natural naphthoquinones from Juglans regia and in vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic studies of naphthoquinones and synthetic naphthofuran derivatives. Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry, 44. doi: 10.1134/S1068162018030111
  • Kumaran A*, Ho CC, Hwang LS. (2018) Protective effect of Nelumbo nucifera extracts on beta-amyloid protein-induced apoptosis in PC12 cells: An in vitro model of Alzheimer's disease. Journal of Food and Drug Analysis, 26(1), 172-181. doi: 10.1016/j.jfda.2017.01.007
  • Gejo George, Suja Bhargavan Sisupal, Teenu Tomy, Bincy Akkoli Pottammal, Kumaran A, Vemparthan Suvekbala, Rajmohan Gopimohan, Swaminathan Sivaram, Lakshminarayanan Ragupathy. (2017) Thermally conductive thin films derived from defect-free graphene-natural rubber latex nanocomposite: Preparation and properties. Carbon, 119. doi: 10.1016/j.carbon.2017.04.068
  • Lu WC, Huang WT, Kumaran A, Ho CT, Hwang LS. (2011) Transformation of proanthocyanidin A2 to its isomers under different physiological pH conditions and common cell culture medium. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 59(11), 6214-6220. doi: 10.1021/jf104973h
  • Ho CC, Kumaran A, Hwang LS. (2009) Bioassay-guided isolation and identification of anti-Alzheimer active compounds from the root of Angelica sinensis. Food Chemistry, 114, 246-252. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2008.09.046
  • Kumaran A, Karunakaran RJ. (2007) In vitro antioxidant activities of methanol extracts of five Phyllanthus species from India. LWT - Food Science and Technology, 40, 344-352. doi: 10.1016/j.lwt.2005.09.011
  • Kumaran A, Karunakaran RJ. (2007) Activity-guided isolation and identification of free radical-scavenging components from an aqueous extract of Coleus aromaticus. Food Chemistry, 100, 356-361. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2005.09.051
  • Kumaran A*, Karunakaran RJ. (2007) Antioxidant activity of Cassia auriculata flowers. Fitoterapia, 78(1), 46-47. doi: 10.1016/j.fitote.2006.09.022
  • Kumaran A*, Karunakaran RJ. (2006) Antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity of an aqueous extract of Coleus aromaticus. Food Chemistry, 97, 109-114. doi: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2005.03.032
  • Kumaran A, Karunakaran RJ. (2006) Antioxidant activity of polyphenols from Phyllanthus debilis Klein ex Willd. Journal of Natural Remedies, 6(2), 141-146. doi: 10.18311/jnr/2006/457
  • Kumaran A*, Karunakaran RJ. (2006) Nitric oxide radical scavenging active components from Phyllanthus emblica L. Plant Foods for Human Nutrition, 61(1), 1-5. doi: 10.1007/s11130-006-0001-0
  • Kumaran A, Karunakaran RJ. (2006) Antioxidant activities of the methanol extract of Cardiospermum halicacabum. Pharmaceutical Biology, 44(2), 146-151. doi: 10.1080/13880200600596302
  • Kumar KV, Kumaran A. (2005) Removal of methylene blue by mango seed kernel powder. Biochemical Engineering Journal, 27, 83-93. doi: 10.1016/j.bej.2005.08.004

Conference & Invited Talk

Sl. No Author(s) Title of the Article Year Name of Conference Venue
1 A. Kumaran Advances and Potential of Bioactive Drugs Derived from Medicinal Plants 2025 Prof Gnanaraj Endowment lecture on ‘Recent Advancements in Chemical Science’ St. Xavier’s College, Palayamkottai.
2 Vijayakumari Mahadevan Hari Priya, Anand Ganapathy A, Krishnamoorthi R and Alaganandam Kumaran* Development of a Nanoemulgel encapsulating medicated oil and their evaluation of therapeutic efficacy 2024 International Conference on Advances in Interdisciplinary Nanoscience (ICAINS-24) Govt. College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala funded by Collegiate Education (Govt. of Kerala)
3 Vijayakumari Mahadevan Hari Priya, Anand Ganapathy A, and Alaganandam Kumaran* Design and development of Cassia auriculata and L-arginine Phytosome gel and its evaluation of clinical efficacy for transdermal permeation 2024 Translational Research for The Future of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Practice (PHARMACIA’24) Sree Krishna College of Pharmacy & Research Centre, Parassala
4 A. Aswathy Krishna, B.L Abhirami, A. Muhammed Jazim and A. Kumaran* Potential invitro anti-inflammatory activity of Baliospermum montanum Mull, leaf extract 2024 5th Global Ayurveda Festival Green Field Stadium Kariavattom
5 A A Ganapathy VMH Priya, B Krishnaprasad, Y Nayak and A Kumaran* Flavonoids from Cassia auriculata L. as possible inhibitors of Phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5): In vitro, molecular docking and molecular dynamics studies 2024 Translational Research for The Future of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Practice (Pharmacia’24) Translational Research for The Future of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Practice (Pharmacia’24)
6 A. Kumaran Phytopharmaceuticals Bridging Traditional Wisdom and Modern Science in Herbal Drug Research 2023 The student chapter of the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers and EVOGEN Department of Biotechnology & Biochemical Engineering Sree Chitra Thirunal College of Engineering Pappanamcode, Thiruvananthapuram
7 A. Aswathy Krishna, B.L Abhirami, A. Kumaran* Potential invitro anti-inflammatory activity of Baliospermum montanum Mull, leaf extract 2023 Recent Biochemical Approaches in Therapeutics (RBAT IX 2023) Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala Kariavattom Campus, Kerala
8 B.L. Abhirami, A. Aswathy Krishna and A. Kumaran* Bioactivity guided isolation of Potential therapeutic agents from Acacia leucophloea (Roxb) for the management of Post prandial hyperglycemia in type 2 Diabetes mellitus 2023 Recent Biochemical Approaches in Therapeutics (RBAT IX 2023) Department of Biochemistry, University of Kerala Kariavattom Campus, Kerala
9 A. Kumaran Harnessing Ayurvedic Traditions for Sustainable Pharmaceutical Innovation: A Way Forward 2023 Integration of sustainable practices in pharmaceutical Industries and public health' Institute of Pharmacy, Nirma University, Pune (Online platform)
10 Vijayakumari Mahadevan Hari Priya, Anand Ganapathy A, and Alaganandam Kumaran* Development and characterisation of thermoreversible gel integrating L-Arginine phospholipid complex for transdermal application and its comparison of efficacy against L-arginine gel 2023 National Conference on Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies (AMMT 2023) CSIR-National Institute of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram
11 Vijayakumari Mahadevan Hari Priya, Anand Ganapathy A, and Alaganandam Kumaran* Development and characterisation of thermoreversible gel integrating L-Arginine phospholipid complex 2023 Advancement in Interpretation of Mass spectrometry and Artificial Intelligence in Pharmacy (PHARMAGRASP 2023) Ezhuthachan college of Pharmaceutical sciences, Trivandrum
12 Vijayakumari Mahadevan Hari Priya, Anand Ganapathy A, Krishnamoorthi R and Alaganandam Kumaran* Scaffold Repurposing Discloses New cGMP Phosphodiesterase Type 5 (PDE5) Inhibitor Based on Chrysin: Assessment of In Vitro and In Silico approaches, and Chrysin Phytosome Preparation 2023 Molecular Docking and Spectral Interpretation (CHEM-RAPPORT 23) Mar Dioscorus College of Pharmacy - Thiruvananthapuram
13 Muhammed Jasim A, Abhirami BL, Aswathy Krishna A, A Kumaran* Reviving Ancient Wisdom Uncovering the Antidiabetic Potential of an unexplored ingredient Cassia mimosoides L from Katakakhadiradi Kashayam through in vitro Assays 2023 International Ayurveda seminar conducted in 5th global Ayurveda festival Green field stadium, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram
14 B.L. Abhirami, A. Aswathy Krishna, A. Muhammed Jazim and A. Kumaran* The antidiabetic effect of Acacia Leucophloea and its isolated compounds in enhancing incretin level via suppressing dipeptidyl peptidase IV enzyme 2023 5th Global Ayurveda Festival Green Field Stadium Kariavattom
15 A. Kumaran Phytopharmaceuticals: A paradigm shift for plant based research 2021 Comprehensive Advances on Biomaterials, Biopharmaceuticals, Bioenergy and Food biotechnology ”(CABBBF-2021) Coimbatore
16 A. Kumaran Development of Phytopharmaceuticals: Present Scenario and Future Perspectives 2021 Indo- Malaysian Two-Day International E-Conference On Recent Trends in Natural Products Research and their Applications (RTNPRA-21) School of Chemistry, Madurai Kamaraj University, Madurai-625021, Tamil Nadu, India. Online platform
17 A. Kumaran Modernization of Ayurveda through novel formulations. 2020 Workshop on Standardization of Ayurvedic Formulations for MSME industries NIIST, Trivandrum
18 A. Kumaran Recent Advances in Phytopharmaceuticals Research: Indian Scenario 2019 AYUSH Conclave Trivandrum
19 A. Kumaran Modernization of Traditional Indian Medicine: Necessities, Challenges and Future 2019 8th Annual Meeting of Indian Academy of Biomedical Sciences Trivandrum
20 A. Kumaran A Bird’s-Eye View on Phytopharmaceuticals: Industrial vs Institutional snags 2019 Interactive Session on Phytopharmaceuticals: Development, Regulatory, IPR & Marketing Challenges Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi
21 A. Kumaran Research and Herbal drug development 2019 Training in Research methodology for Medical Officers of Indian System of Medicine (ISM) department Trivandrum
Alumni
Sl. No. Student’s Name Photo Fellowship Position (Year Left)
1 Dr.Y.G.Aparna Aparna ICMR-RA Research Associate (2022)
2 Dr Bashi M B Bashi ICMR-DHR Senior Project Associate (2022)
3 Dr. Jaice Ravindran Jaice CSIR-Mission mode Project Associate-II (2022)
4 Mr. Vimal S Vimal Industry funded: KSDPL Senior Project Associate (2023)
5 Mrs. Indira samdade Indira CSIR-Mission mode Project Associate-I (2023)
5 Dr. Krishnamoorthi R Krishnamoorthi ICMR-DHR Senior Project Associate (2024)
5 Dr. Amal Wilson Varghese Amal ICMR-DHR Senior Project Associate (2024)

M.Sc Project Students

Sl. No. Student’s Name Year Project Title
1 Jemy Thomas 2019 Simple and Scalable Method for the Isolation of Vasicine from Adhatoda vasica and Quantification of its Content in the Commercially Available Vasarishta
2 Merin K Abraham 2020 Bioactivity guided isolation of antioxidant compound from the flowers of cassia fistula
3 Pournamy Sankar 2020 Isolation of Major Bioactive Compound from the Roots of Withania somnifera and its Quantification in Marketed Samples
4 Athira K 2020 Isolation of Major Bioactive Compound from the Roots of Asparagus racemosus and its Quantification in Marketed Samples
5 Abhijith BS 2023 Bioassay-Guided fractionation and isolation of potential antioxidant compounds from Sphaeranthus indicus
6 Farzana S. Nishad 2023 Bioassay-Guided isolation of antioxidant compounds from Solanum trilobatum
7 Yuvaranjani S 2023 Examining the Ayurvedic principle of substitute drugs through phytochemical and biological analysis
8 Sreelekshmy B 2023 Bioassay Guided Isolation and Identification of Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors from Cassia auriculata L. for Managing Alzheimer’s disease and their In-silico Evaluation
9 Raji Jayan 2023 Phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of Cassia auriculata for anticholinesterase and antioxidant properties
10 Sreepriya MS 2024 Anti-inflammatory potential of flavonoids isolated from Cardiosoermum halicacabum in RAW 264.7 cell line
11 Anjali Sunil 2024 Bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation of antioxidant compounds from Cardiosoermum halicacabum
12 Allwin Glison 2024 Phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of Coccinia indica for anticholinesterase and antioxidant properties
13 Shahana Rifa 2024 Bioassay Guided Isolation and Identification of amyloid beta aggregation inhibitors from roots of Angelica sinensis for managing Alzheimer’s disease
14 Karthika M 2024 Investigation of Cassia auriculata L. flower buds for anticholinesterase and amyloid beta aggregation inhibition properties against Alzheimer’s disease and their in-silico evaluation
Academic Qualification
  • Ph. D, (Natural Product Chemistry) 2003-2006, Madras University Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
    Thesis: “Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Isolation of Active Constituents from Selected Indian Plants”.
  • M. Phil, (Organic Chemistry) 1993-1994, Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India.
    Dissertation: “1H-NMR Spectral study on 6,8-diaryl-5,9-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dithia-7-azocylclononane-1,1,4,4-tetroxides”.
  • M. Sc., (Chemistry), 1991-1993, Bharathidasan University, Tamil Nadu, India.
    Project: “Investigations on the reactions of aniline with Iron and Manganese sulphate”.
  • B. Sc., (Chemistry), 1988-1991, Madras University Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Group

Ph.D /Project Students

Sl. No. Student’s Name (Contact) Photo Funding (Year) Current Position Research areas
1 Hari Priya VM (8848672168) Haripriya ICMR_EMR (2018)
ICMR-SRF (2021)
ICMR-DHR (2024)		 Senior Project Associate Nanomedicine based approaches for reproductive health
2 Anand Ganapathy A (9746615842) Anand ICMR-EMR (2018)
ICMR-DHR-YS (2021)		 Young Scientist (2021) Multifaceted approaches for the development of target specific therapeutics to manage Alzheimer’s disease
3 Muhammed Jasim A (9633989791) Muhammed UGC (2019) Senior Research Fellow Medicinal plants for their anti-diabetic potential and bioactivity guided isolation of active constituents
4 Abhirami BL (9633607610) Abhirami UGC (2020) Senior Research Fellow Development of phytopharmaceuticals for the selected therapeutic targets of Type II Diabetes mellitus
5 Aswathy Krishna A (7012957083) Aswathy CSIR (2020) Senior Research Fellow Anti-inflammatory agents from selected medicinal plants for the management of pain in rheumatoid arthritis
6 Nithya M (9800849908) Nithya CSIR (2021) Senior Research Fellow (2021) Natural products based new chemical entities: design, synthesis and medicinal evaluations
7 Shalin C (7902229656) Shalin CSIR-Mission mode (2024) Senior Project Associate  Phytopharmaceutical development for hyperlipidemia
8 Diya Vikas (8848072275) Diya CSIR (2025) Junior Research Fellow Nutraceutical development for Immune health
Research Interest

Research Interests

  • Natural Product Chemistry: Exploration, isolation, and structural characterization of bioactive compounds from natural sources.
  • Nutraceutical and Herbal Formulations: Development of innovative nutraceuticals and herbal formulations to address various health conditions.
  • Bioactivity-Guided Studies: Conducting bioactivity-guided isolation and characterization of active metabolites using in vitro assays, cell cultures, and advanced spectroscopic methods.
  • Phytopharmaceutical Development: Research on the development of plant-based pharmaceuticals, focusing on isolation, scale-up, and technology transfer.
  • Preclinical Evaluation: In vivo toxicity and efficacy assessments for Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Reproductive Health, and Alzheimer’s Disease.
  • Pharmaceutical Formulations: Research on generic and novel formulations, with a particular focus on BCS Class II and IV drugs.
  • Novel Drug Delivery Systems (NDDS): Designing and optimizing advanced drug delivery systems to improve the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of bioactives and drugs.
  • Analytical Methodology: Development and validation of new analytical methods for herbal drugs, leveraging advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques.
  • Biotransformation and Bioconversion: Investigating microbial and enzymatic processes to enhance the activity and yield of natural products.
  • Semi-Synthetic Modifications: Research on semi-synthetic modification of lead compounds to improve biological activity and therapeutic potential.
  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engaging in multidisciplinary research to integrate natural product chemistry with pharmaceutical sciences for innovative solutions.
Projects

Projects under implementation/completed as Principle Investigator

  • INSIGHT - Fingerprinting of Shatavari Extracts
    • Funding: Industry-funded (Plant Lipid Private Limited)
    • Duration: 3 Months (Jan 25 - Mar 25)
    • Budget: 3.00
  • Cosmetic Skin Care Formulation Development
    • Funding: Industry-funded (SIRA NATURALS)
    • Duration: 6 Months (2023-2024)
    • Budget: 5.00
  • Phytotherapeutic approach for the management of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A multifaceted target-specific inhibition of selective α-Adrenergic receptor, 5-α-Reductase and Phosphodiesterase type 5
    • Funding: ICMR-DHR-GIA
    • Duration: 3.5 years (Jan 22 - Jul 25)
    • Budget: 47.39
  • Development of polyherbal-based immunomodulatory products
    • Funding: CSIR-Mission Mode
    • Duration: 2 years (Apr 21 - Mar 23)
    • Budget: 70.00
  • Sustained release liquid dosage form for steam inhalation
    • Funding: NIIST OLP Project
    • Duration: 6 Months (Mar 20 - Sep 20)
    • Budget: 3.00
  • Activity-guided screening of phosphodiesterase inhibitors from Indian medicinal plants to treat erectile dysfunction
    • Funding: ICMR
    • Duration: 3.5 years (Nov 18 - May 22)
    • Budget: 39.81
  • Development of knowledge base on pharmaceutical formulations
    • Funding: Industry-funded (Kerala State Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Ltd. - KSDPL)
    • Duration: 2.5 years (Jan 21 - Jul 23)
    • Budget: 70.80

Projects under implementation/completed as Co-Principle Investigator/mentor/team member

  • Development of Antihyperlipidemic Phytopharmaceutical lead from Curcuma Amada (Zinger Health)
    • Project: Phytopharma Mission-III (MMP)
    • Duration: 2023-2026
    • Funding: CSIR
    • Role: Co-Principal Investigator
  • Sustainable Packaging Solutions for Net-Zero Future
    • Project: Packaging Mission
    • Duration: 2025-2028
    • Funding: CSIR
    • Role: Team Member
  • An integrated target specific inhibition of Acetylcholinesterase, Phosphodiesterase-5 and Amyloid-Beta aggregation for Alzheimer's disease through phytotherapeutic approach
    • Project: ICMR-DHR Young Scientist (GAP)
    • Duration: 2022-2025
    • Funding: Indian Council of Medical Research-Department of Health Research (ICMR-DHR)
    • Role: Project Coordinator and Guide
  • Phytosome based targeted delivery and therapeutic evaluation of Phytopharmaceutical for the treatment of erectile dysfunction
    • Project: ICMR-SRF Project
    • Duration: 2021-2024
    • Funding: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
    • Role: Project Coordinator and Guide
  • Generation of a food products catalogue and value addition of honey
    • Project: OLP Project
    • Duration: 2023
    • Funding: CSIR-NIIST
    • Role: Co-Principal Investigator
  • Bioactive lead Identification of traditional medicinal plants Hiptage madablota and Acacia chundra for their target specific antidiabetic studies
    • Project: ICMR-RA Project
    • Duration: 2021-2022
    • Funding: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
    • Role: Project Coordinator and Guide
  • Process Development for enzymatic production of Ascorbic Acid 2 glucoside
    • Project: MLP Project
    • Duration: 2021-2023
    • Funding: CSIR
    • Role: Team Member
  • Development and validation of nutraceutical products with the edible fungi Cordyceps
    • Project: Industry-sponsored project (SSP)
    • Duration: 2021-2022
    • Funding: Adhinidhi Nutriments Company Pvt Ltd, Palakkadu, Kerala
    • Role: Co-Principal Investigator
  • Prophylactic immunomodulation against viral challenges from active fractions of Solanum nigrum L.
    • Project: Phytopharma Mission-II (HCP)
    • Duration: 2021-2023
    • Funding: CSIR
    • Role: Co-Principal Investigator

Projects completed before joining NIIST

  • Development of Herbal Stretch Marks Removal Cream/Gel
    • Cost: ₹8.0 lakhs
    • Role: Principal Investigator (PI)
    • Funding Agency: HLL Lifecare Limited
    • Duration: 1.5 years (Mar 2013 - Aug 2014)
  • Development of Herbal-Based Uterine Tonic for the Treatment of Uterine Disorders (Commercialized - ULIXIR)
    • Cost: ₹18.0 lakhs
    • Role: Principal Investigator (PI)
    • Funding Agency: HLL Lifecare Limited
    • Duration: 2 years (Mar 2013 - Mar 2015)
  • Graphene-Based Polymer Composites for High Heat Transfer, Improved Sensitivity, and Drug Delivery: Multidimensional Approach to Increase Sexual Pleasure and the Value of Condoms
    • Cost: ₹800.00 lakhs
    • Role: Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI)
    • Funding Agency: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, USA
    • Duration: 4.5 years (Aug 2013 - Jul 2018)
  • Poly(Glycerol Sebacate)-Based Condoms with Increased Sensitivity and Protection Against STIs & Unplanned Pregnancy: An Opportunity to Produce Better-Green-Cheaper Condoms
    • Cost: ₹66.00 lakhs
    • Role: Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI)
    • Funding Agency: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, USA
    • Duration: 2 years (Apr 2014 - Mar 2016)
  • Developing a Novel Condom to Treat Erectile Dysfunction by Incorporating Herbal-Based Vasodilating Active Principles/Extracts
    • Cost: ₹29.55 lakhs
    • Role: Principal Investigator (PI)
    • Funding Agency: HLL Lifecare Limited
    • Duration: 3 years (Aug 2015 - Jul 2018)
  • Biotransformation of Colchicine to Colchicoside Using GRAS Bacteria
    • Cost: ₹120 lakhs
    • Role: Principal Investigator (PI)
    • Funding Agency: Sanmar Speciality Chemical Limited
    • Duration: 2.5 years (Jan 2010 - Jun 2012)
Products & Technologies

Technology/Process/Product

Product Developed

Sl. No Title Year Product Picture
1

ROSAZIP

Nutritious Instant Drink Powder from Underutilized Watery Rose Apple		 2024 Rosazip
2

NIISTEA

Tea drops, infused with concentrated tea extract, offer a convenient and novel way to enjoy rich tea flavors.		 2024 NIISTtea
3

CocoHoney Glow

A Luxurious blend of organic coconut oil and natural honey to deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin for a radiant glow		 2024 Cocohoney
4

HoneyCafé Jelly

A unique blend of natural honey and aromatic coffee on jelly form for an indulgent snack		 2024 Jelly
5

IMMUNIIST

A polyherbal-based immunomodulatory products for Immune health		 2023 Immunist
6

StiffNil

A herbal-based analgesic gel for joint pain		 2021 Stiffnil
7

Nanoemulgel

Conversion of Ayurvedic medicated oil into gel/cream formulation		 2020 Gel
8

NiiSTEAM

Developed a novel sustained release and water soluble liquid formulation for steam inhalation		 2020 Niisteam
9

CLEANiiST

Herbal gel sanitizer for prevention and spread of COVID-19		 2020 Cleaniist
10

Rheumaniist

Nanoemulgel for the management of rheumatic pain		 2019 Rheumaniist

Technology/Know-how transferred:

Sl. No Title Year Product Picture
1 Squalane based cosmetic formulation 2024 SQ
2 Furosemide IP 40 mg Tablet formulation 2023 IP
3 Folic acid IP 5mg Tablet formulation 2023 Folic
4 Mycophenolate mofetil 500 mg Tablet Formulation 2022 mofetil
5 Capecitabine 500 mg Tablet formulation 2022 capecitabine
6 Levetiracetam 500 mg Tablet Fromulation 2022 Levetiracetam
7 Albendazole 400 mg Tablet Formulation 2022 Levetiracetam
8 Tranexamic acid 500 mg Tablet formulation 2021 Tranexamic acid
9 Hydroxychloroquine sulphate 200 mg Tablet Formulation 2021 Hydroxychloroquine sulphate
10 Linezolid 600 mg Tablet Formulation 2021 Linezolid