
India has the potential to be a global lab for scalable longevity solutions: Accel's Prashanth Prakash
Hello Prashanth, what was the thought process behind this investment decision?
The timing of this investment is deeply intentional. We are at a unique intersection in human health where diagnostics, artificial intelligence, and longevity science are converging with extraordinary speed. Biopeak is building an integrated, precision health system grounded in global science but tailored to the unique biological, environmental, and lifestyle factors of the Indian population. This is not just a business bet—it's a belief that India will lead the world in next-generation healthcare.
The thought process was simple: medicine is shifting from reactive to predictive and preventive, and Biopeak is among the few platforms architecting that future in a scalable, scientifically grounded way. It will enable us to plot with unprecedented detail personalised health trajectories for a specific individual using multi-dimensional data collection, integration, and prediction.
The focus on deeply personalised healthcare is going to be huge in the future. Right?
The transition from universal averages to personalised insights will represent a revolution in how we detect, predict, prevent adverse events and build resilience reserves. This new model of Biology and AI-led medicine is an exciting paradigm for the future of healthcare in our country that investors are excited to back.
What's your definition of longevity?
Longevity, for us, is not merely about extending the lifespan but expanding the healthspan. Ensuring more years that are healthy, vital, and productive is more crucial. In the Indian context, this requires a unique balance: respect for traditional knowledge systems, alignment with evolving regulatory frameworks, and deep reliance on evidence-based science.
We're combining cutting-edge diagnostics—from microbiome and metabolomics to imaging and functional genomics—with culturally compatible interventions and a powerful AI layer.
Longevity for us in India means democratising access to health optimisation—life partnerships between human intelligence and machine precision, rooted in science, ethics, and scale.
In ancient civilizations including India, people were said to have lived for a much longer span of time. How do you relate that to the work Biopeak is doing and the results it is hoping to achieve?
While environmental and societal contexts have changed drastically, ancient systems often emphasised internal balance, rhythm with nature, and preventative health —all are core principles in today's longevity science.
At Biopeak, we're not romanticising the past—we're modelling it. Using symbolic and generative AI frameworks, we're integrating timeless health principles with modern biological data to predict individual responses to pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and lifestyle interventions. It's not about replicating ancient lifespans—it's about reclaiming biological potential by harmonising past wisdom with today's precision tools.
Do you think longevity as a concept can be realistically spread to all sections of society? Or will it remain only an aspiration of the well-heeled?
Longevity must not become a luxury. With AI at the core of Biopeak's platform, we can rapidly model and scale health solutions based on outcomes from higher-touch cases to broader population needs. What starts with the few can be democratised for the many through intelligent design, efficient diagnostics, and continuous learning from diverse cohorts.
India has the potential to be a global lab for scalable longevity solutions—not by diluting science but by deploying it with cultural and economic sensitivity.
Through our own longitudinal data leveraging interdisciplinary collaboration (Longevity India, an initiative of the Indian Institute of Science), we aim to identify markers of organ system malfunction before pathology sets in so that we can implement a health management program which will extend healthspan and improve the quality of life for the ageing population across all sections of society.
At the core of Biopeak's offering, I believe, is a diagnostic system that includes tests like organic acid profiling, microbiome mapping, salivary cortisol rhythms, and whole-exome functional genomics. These are paired with imaging tools such as MRI, CT, and ECHO, as well as tissue-level screenings that examine markers like mineral levels, toxin load, and oxidative stress. Does this make Biopeak a unique company in the world?
Yes, Biopeak is unique both in its scientific architecture and its population focus. It combines multiple high-resolution diagnostic modalities—molecular, functional, and structural—into a unified health intelligence platform. Each individual is paired with a biologist and clinician, and guided through a dynamic health roadmap.
What further sets it apart is its South Asia-centric design, which considers the genetic, dietary, cultural, and environmental nuances of this region. Supported by research from institutions like IISc and informed by global best practices, Biopeak is not just another health company—it's a systems-level rethink of what human health can be in the 21st century.
What's Medicine 4.0? What does it look to solve? What are its basic principles?
Medicine 4.0 is the natural evolution of healthcare in the age of AI and high-resolution biology. It's defined by its longitudinal view of health, multisystem diagnostics, real-time feedback loops, and personalised intervention frameworks. It's not about treating symptoms—it's about continuously adapting to the evolving biology of the individual.
This approach integrates international technologies, leverages big data with small, precise insights, and focuses on outcomes over time rather than episodic care. In short, it's predictive, participatory, personalised, and preventive.
What do you think are the key pillars of the Medicine 4.0 framework as far as BioPeak is concerned?
Biopeak leverages data from modern genomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and metagenomics analytics to provide a molecular view of an individual's unique biology. This integration identifies systemic equilibrium for identifying subtle imbalances and hidden dysfunctions long before symptoms arise.
From DXA scans for bone density to functional MRIs and real-time metabolic imaging, Biopeak employs cutting-edge tools that visualise internal systems and structural health markers. Using a hybrid AI approach, combining symbolic AI (for precise, rule-based interpretations) and generative AI (for pattern recognition and predictive modelling), Biopeak can detect complex biological interrelations and generate personalised health insights.
What do you think are the limitations of the current health systems worldwide and in India?
Globally and in India, health systems remain largely reactive, fragmented, and oriented around acute interventions rather than long-term prevention. There's a heavy focus on managing disease rather than predicting and reversing the conditions that lead to it. What's missing is a systems view—an integration of diagnostics, therapeutics, and lifestyle within a cohesive, continuously updating framework. People are treated as conditions, not as dynamic ecosystems. Long-term biological consequences of current choices are rarely factored into care.
The foundation of Medicine 2.0 was built on population averages, with protocols and interventions developed based on data from extensive observational and interventional studies. While this approach helped standardise treatments, it does not account for individual variability. Each person's genetic framework, metabolism, lifestyle, and environment interactions are unique, making the n=1 (individual-first) model essential for true health optimisation. Biopeak is solving for precisely this: unifying the fragmented landscape into an intelligent, longitudinal system centred around the individual.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Business Standard
22 minutes ago
- Business Standard
Food as Medicine: Dr. V. Mohan on the Economic and Health Impact of Pistachio-Based Diabetes Prevention
Dr. V. Mohan, one of India's foremost diabetologists and researchers, sheds light on the findings of a landmark clinical trial led by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), conducted with the support of the American Pistachio Growers (APG). Recently published in the prestigious Journal of Nutrition, the study reveals how adding pistachios to a daily diet could significantly improve metabolic health in people with prediabetes—a discovery that could influence how India tackles its growing diabetes burden. Why Pistachios May Be the Missing Piece in India's Nutrition Puzzle? The Indian diet is largely carbohydrate-heavy, with limited focus on proteins and healthy fats. For a balanced diet, all three macronutrients—carbs, proteins, and fats—must be proportionately included. Among fats, trans fats (in processed foods) and saturated fats (like ghee and butter) are harmful. Healthier options include unsaturated fats: monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). MUFAs are especially beneficial for heart health and diabetes management. Unfortunately, Indian diets lack MUFAs. Pistachios, rich in MUFA, offer a healthy solution. Research now shows they help lower cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, and waist size—contrary to earlier beliefs about nuts and weight gain. Pistachios and Satiety: A Natural Way to Control Appetite Pistachios are remarkably effective at inducing satiety, helping people feel full faster. When meals include natural, fiber- and protein-rich foods like pistachios, fruits, and non-starchy vegetables, carb intake naturally drops. For instance, someone used to eat three chapatis may feel satisfied with just one or two. This simple dietary change can aid in weight control, improve blood sugar levels, and support better overall metabolic health—making pistachios a smart, healthy addition. Reducing Healthcare Costs Through Preventive Nutrition According to the ICMR-INDIAB study, India has 101 million diabetics and 136 million prediabetics. If even half of the prediabetics develop diabetes, the total could exceed 160 million—leading to enormous healthcare costs, including medications, surgeries, and dialysis. Preventive strategies like pistachio consumption can delay or prevent diabetes and reduce heart disease risk. This not only improves health outcomes but also significantly cuts healthcare expenses for individuals and the system. The Role of International Collaborations in Driving Health Innovation Collaborations like ours with APG (American Pistachio Growers) are crucial for generating strong, evidence-based research. This study helps prove that investing in healthy foods—like pistachios over junk snacks—can lead to simple, impactful health improvements nationwide. An Opportunity for Indian Food Brands: Healthy Pistachio-Based Products There is a huge opportunity for Indian food companies to develop pistachio-based products. But they must be careful not to undermine the health benefits by adding excess salt, sugar, or fat. Pistachios should be consumed in as natural a form as possible, or blended with other healthy ingredients in a mindful way. Done right, this can help make healthier eating mainstream. The Future of Pistachio Research: Beyond Diabetes At the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation, we're studying how pistachios improve gut health, reduce inflammation, and lower insulin resistance. Long-term trials are challenging, so we're pursuing large-scale observational studies over 10–15 years to explore pistachios' lasting impact on heart disease, diabetes, and obesity in real-world settings. Can India Create Its Own 'Mediterranean Diet"? India can create its own 'Indian Mediterranean diet' with nuts like pistachios, healthy fats, and traditional vegetables—promoting long-term health by rethinking our carb-heavy eating habits. The Rise of Nut-Based Food Content Creators: A Boon for Public Health? We also need the help of social media creators and health influencers to spread awareness. If people understand that a handful of pistachios daily can lower heart disease and diabetes risk, this message will stick—and habits will change. Global Collaboration: Partners in the Pistachio Study Our study involved collaborations with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and other global experts. These partnerships ensured that our research met the highest scientific standards, making it impactful and credible. What's Next for MDRF? Beyond Pistachios We're working on several projects. Studies on cashews, almonds, walnuts, and groundnuts Research on how much carbohydrate is safe, and what should replace it—protein, fat, or something else Childhood diabetes, gestational diabetes, and type 1 diabetes Use of AI and machine learning in reading retinal scans for diabetes-related eye diseases Physical activity innovations like Tandav, a 12-minute Bollywood dance workout designed by my daughter Dr. Ranjana, which uses HIIT principles We are exploring immune markers, inflammatory markers, and metabolomics. These studies are costly, but since the early results are promising, we're talking to funders to support continued research in this area. Conclusion: Rethinking Food as Medicine India must shift from treatment to prevention. Adding pistachios daily is a small step with big benefits—for diabetes, heart health, and healthcare costs. It's time to see food as medicine.


India Today
22 minutes ago
- India Today
Oben Electric to launch next-gen Rorr EZ on August 5 with major upgrades
Oben Electric, the Bengaluru-based electric motorcycle startup, is gearing up to launch the next-generation Rorr EZ on August 5, 2025. With an emphasis on performance, practicality, and rider-focused features, the new Rorr EZ is poised to elevate the urban electric commuting already carved a niche in the electric motorcycle market since its debut in November 2024, the Rorr EZ quickly gained traction among city riders for its clutch-free, gearless convenience, aggressive styling, and stress-free handling in traffic-heavy environments. Now, the next-gen model aims to build on this success with enhanced tech, bolder upgrades, and refined ergonomics while staying true to its commuter-first the heart of the Rorr EZ is Oben's proprietary LFP battery technology, known for its superior thermal resistance (50% higher than conventional chemistries) and twice the lifespan. This ensures greater safety and long-term reliability across varied Indian road conditions. The motorcycle delivers an IDC range of up to 175km, supports fast charging up to 80% in as little as 45 minutes, and offers a top speed of 95kmph, making it a compelling option for daily city riders who demand performance without compromise. Oben Electric emphasises that the new Rorr EZ is not just an upgrade but a statement of the company's commitment to innovation in the fast-evolving EV segment. The model blends cutting-edge performance with practical usability, featuring swift acceleration, class-leading torque, and a design optimised for urban for the next-gen Rorr EZ will open on the launch day (August 5), with deliveries beginning from August 15, 2025, across key cities in to Auto Today Magazine- Ends


Time of India
22 minutes ago
- Time of India
Ransomware groups are blurring the line between cybercrime and ‘hacktivism'
Ransomware is evolving from profit-driven attacks to political tools, targeting countries like India and the US, according to a report by Akamai. These hybrid groups are mixing financial crime with political messaging, blurring the line between them, making it harder for authorities to stop them. India, in particular, is facing rising attacks, highlighting the need for stronger cyber defences. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Cybercriminals are now using ransomware not only to make money but also to spread political propaganda , according to a new report by cybersecurity and cloud computing company its State of the Internet 2025 report, Akamai shows how some ransomware groups are acting more like hacktivists — hackers who attack systems to support a political or social or RaaS groups with hacktivist motivations are using ransom payments to fund campaigns to advance their ideologies.'We are seeing actors like DragonForce and KillSec blend ideology with extortion, turning ransomware into a weapon of disruption rather than just a tool for profit. This fusion of hacktivism and RaaS blurs attribution and complicates response,' Reuben Koh, director of security technology and strategy, Asia-Pacific & Japan, Akamai, told of the biggest hacktivist groups is Malaysia-based DragonForce. The group focuses especially on disrupting systems in India and Israel. It has launched major ransomware attacks across other countries as well, including the UK and the United group, Stormous, has attacked big companies such as soft drink manufacturer Coca-Cola and Barbie doll maker Mattel, and often leaves ransom notes in Arabic. It targets countries seen as unfriendly to Russia or aligned with Western interests, including France, Spain, the US, and there is KillSec, which began its attacks in October 2023. It supports pro-Russian political ideas and mainly targets the government and healthcare sectors. KillSec has shown a particular interest in targeting Asian countries such as India and Bangladesh, as well as other countries, including the United which started as a political hacktivist group in 2024, also began using ransomware to attack critical systems in NATO-aligned (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) countries. It started using ransomware for retaliation against adversaries of Russia or India, and often targets report also cited data from eCrime Threat and Risk Intelligence Services, which shows that Asia was a major target for ransomware attacks. In 2024, India experienced 17 attacks on its financial institutions, surpassing the UK's 16 and Canada's these figures are still far lower than the 151 attacks reported in the US last year.'India's growing geopolitical relevance and digital infrastructure make it a high-value target for hybrid ransomware groups, said Koh. 'This highlights the urgent need for resilient, intelligence-led cyber defences across Indian enterprises and critical infrastructure that can adapt to the ever-changing threat landscape and adversaries.'Since 2022, FBI decryption keys have helped victims in the US avoid over $800 million in ransom payments. Decryption protects sensitive data like financial records and personal information, by keeping it secure yet are banning ransom payments to threat actors, since paying doesn't guarantee data recovery. Meanwhile, cyber insurance providers are incentivising organisations to strengthen security programs and offering their negotiating skills to lower ransomware payments.