Dr. Prashant Jha stands at the forefront of innovation as the Founder and CEO of Nahush Pharmaceuticals, spearheading InstaStop, a cutting-edge nanoparticle-based product that rivals the efficacy of chitosan in staunching blood loss resulting from injuries. Armed with an engineering degree from the esteemed National Institute of Technology, Raipur, and a PhD in material science and engineering from the renowned State University of New York at Stony Brook, Dr. Jha embodies a rare blend of academic prowess and entrepreneurial spirit. His distinguished membership in the National Academy of Inventors, USA, further underscores his stature as a luminary in the field.
Returning to his roots in India following his academic pursuits abroad, Dr. Jha is fueled by a fervent desire to leverage his expertise for the betterment of his nation. His brainchild, InstaStop, represents the culmination of years of relentless research and development. This groundbreaking product, currently undergoing rigorous pre-clinical trials, holds immense promise in revolutionizing the landscape of healthcare by offering an instantaneous solution to the critical issue of blood loss.
In an exclusive dialogue with The Interview World, Dr. Prashant Jha offers invaluable insights into the genesis and potential impact of InstaStop. He emphasizes its indispensable role in saving lives, whether on the battlefield, in emergency rooms, or amidst unforeseen accidents, by swiftly arresting the flow of blood. Dr. Jha’s unwavering dedication to advancing medical science underscores his commitment to humanity’s welfare and underscores the transformative power of innovation in addressing pressing healthcare challenges.
Q: What developments and advancements have occurred with InstaStop since its inception, stemming from your original research?
A: Hailing from a background entrenched in material science, my research endeavors centered around the utilization of chitosan in the creation of nanoparticles. Amidst this pursuit, serendipity unveiled a novel molecule, distinguished by its markedly heightened polarity relative to chitosan. This revelation hinted at the potential for our newfound molecule to surpass chitosan’s efficacy across a spectrum of applications.
Traditionally, chitosan has been a staple in the realm of blood-stopping bandages, albeit with somewhat lackluster results. Nevertheless, the augmented polarity of our modified molecule imbues us with unwavering confidence in its ability to elevate performance standards.
Conducting experiments on rabbits provided empirical validation of our assertions. Astoundingly, these trials yielded an 80% reduction in blood loss and a consequential 40% diminishment in hematoma size. Furthermore, these findings heralded a breakthrough, prompting the commencement of trials at the esteemed Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone (AMTZ).
With the momentum gained from these initial successes, our next crucial step involves the submission of our findings to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Upon their approval, we eagerly anticipate advancing to human trials, poised to revolutionize the landscape of medical treatment modalities.
Q: What are the key chemical formulations within InstaStop that facilitate the cessation of blood loss, and how do they operate to achieve this effect?
A: Firstly, it’s vital to understand the electrostatic properties at play: platelets, the primary agents in blood clotting, exhibit a negative charge on their surface, while our molecule carries a positive charge. This polarity sets the stage for an interaction that is crucial for the healing process.
Secondly, as blood exits the body through an injury, a critical step emerges: the implementation of a mechanism capable of extracting water while retaining essential particles. This function is expertly executed by the hydrogel component of our approach. By effectively removing excess water, this component facilitates an increase in the concentration of platelets at the site of injury, thus accelerating the healing process.
Moreover, the positively charged nature of our molecule serves as a beacon for platelets, prompting them to align themselves appropriately at the injury site. This alignment is instrumental in initiating the natural cascade of events that culminate in the healing of the wound.
In essence, our approach mirrors the body’s innate healing mechanisms. Just as setting a fractured bone enables the body to take over the healing process, our method involves merely removing water, aligning platelets, and allowing the body’s natural processes to drive the healing forward.
Q: What are the key or primary applications of InstaStop?
A: InstaStop acts as a lifesaver in situations involving road accidents and injuries among paramilitary and military personnel. These individuals often find themselves in remote areas, far removed from immediate medical assistance. When injuries occur, the transportation process to reach a hospital can result in substantial blood loss, leading to tragic consequences and the loss of invaluable lives.
Our product, InstaStop, addresses this critical issue effectively. Its portable nature makes it an essential addition to first aid kits, ensuring that it is readily available when needed. By applying InstaStop directly to the injury site, bleeding can be swiftly controlled. This will enable the injured to be transported to a medical facility without experiencing significant blood loss. This intervention is pivotal, as it increases the likelihood of survival and ensures that these courageous individuals receive the prompt medical attention they require. InstaStop serves as a vital tool in saving lives and minimizing the impact of injuries sustained in challenging environments.
Q: What strategic roadmap do you envision for the long-term development and growth of InstaStop?
A: Regarding mass production, technology poses no hindrance, having been extensively developed over 3-4 years before establishing the company. This prolonged immersion grants a comprehensive grasp of its operational intricacies. Upon receiving approval from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) for our novel drug, marketing initiatives will be initiated. After market expansion, production will be scaled up accordingly. The seamless augmentation of production capacity is assured, devoid of any impediments. Our well-founded confidence in technology and meticulous planning underscores our readiness to meet burgeoning market demands with efficiency and precision.
Q: What are the comparative costs of InstaStop versus traditional band-aids?
A: Here’s the crux of the matter: At present, there’s no comparable product on the market, rendering any comparisons moot. From a pricing standpoint, there’s simply nothing else like it available. While band-aids suffice for minor cuts and scrapes, they’re inadequate for addressing the severity of gunshot wounds, leaving a critical gap in medical care. Our innovative product steps in to fill this void, providing essential protection against severe blood loss caused by gunshot injuries.
Priced reasonably between Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1200, it offers a lifeline in situations where immediate, effective intervention is crucial. Moreover, for minor abrasions and injuries, it remains accessible, priced at approximately Rs. 30-40. Ultimately, our pricing structure reflects the diverse needs and use cases it serves. We will ensure that individuals facing varying levels of injury can access the appropriate level of care without financial burden.
