Revolutionizing Healthcare: IIT Madras' Brain Mapping Journey
Prof. Mohanasankar Sivaprakasam, a distinguished figure at IIT Madras, is pioneering research in human brain mapping and innovative healthcare technologies. As the head of both the Healthcare Technology Innovation Centre (HTIC) and the Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre, he aims to create the world’s most detailed human brain maps while also developing affordable healthcare solutions. Established in 2011, HTIC has fostered collaborations with over 40 medical institutions and industries to translate research into impactful technologies.
One of the key innovations from HTIC is a mobile eye surgical unit, addressing the critical issue of cataract blindness in India. This mobile unit has performed thousands of surgeries in remote areas where access to traditional healthcare facilities is limited. This initiative showcases the centre's commitment to improving healthcare access and quality, especially in underserved regions.
Prof. Mohanasankar's journey began with a focus on implantable medical electronics during his PhD. His work on electrically stimulating the retina to restore vision laid the foundation for his current research interests, which now span across neuroscience and engineering. His return to India in 2008 marked a significant shift as he aimed to bridge the gap between research and real-world applications in healthcare.
The Sudha Gopalakrishnan Brain Centre, inaugurated in 2022, is at the forefront of human brain science. The centre is working on a comprehensive mapping of the human brain, which could revolutionize our understanding of various brain diseases. By producing high-resolution maps of the brain, the research aims to enhance diagnostics and treatment strategies across different age groups and conditions.
Despite the progress in the medtech ecosystem in India, Prof. Mohanasankar highlights the challenges faced by startups in scaling their innovations. He emphasizes the need for greater acceptance of homegrown technologies by hospitals to create a conducive environment for startups to thrive. The health sector's inherent conservatism often hinders rapid adoption of new solutions, which is crucial for growth and innovation.
As the Indian healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Prof. Mohanasankar's contributions stand out. His vision to create impactful healthcare technologies and foster a collaborative ecosystem positions India as a significant player in global health innovation. By focusing on both the technological and human aspects of healthcare, he aims to improve the lives of millions.
