A gut microbiome lab has been launched at Hyderabad Hospital to advance IBD research

AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad is launching a specialized gut microbiome treatment lab and pill on Saturday (August 29). | Photo credit: Special arrangement

AIG Hospitals in Hyderabad on Saturday (August 29) launched a dedicated Gut Microbiome Therapeutics and Pill Lab to study the therapeutic potential of the human gut microbiome with an initial focus on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

The platform will work to develop oral microbiome capsule formulations using scientifically proven donor material. The process will include microbiome profiling, controlled sample processing, preservation, capsule formulation, quality and safety controls, and clinical research protocols.

The hospital clarified that the microbiome pill being developed at the facility is strictly for research purposes and will only be used as part of approved clinical research programs.

The gut microbiome, comprising the trillions of microorganisms in the digestive tract, is increasingly being studied for its role in immunity, inflammation, metabolism, gut barrier function, and response to treatment. Changes in the microbial balance, or dysbiosis, have also been associated with several gastrointestinal and systemic diseases, particularly IBD.

AIG Hospitals chairman D. Nageshwar Reddy said restoring a healthier microbial ecosystem could have significant potential in chronic inflammatory diseases where conventional treatments may not fully address the underlying biological imbalance.

Rupa Banerjee, director of the IBD centre, said the facility was designed with emphasis on scientific quality, donor safety, standardized processes, traceability and clinical relevance. “Each phase, from donor screening to capsule formulation and patient monitoring, will follow defined protocols,” she said.

Published – 29 Aug 2026 20:43 IST