Significance for Pharmaceutical Research

Researchers from Rigaku Corporation, Shionogi & Co., JEOL Ltd., and Meiji Pharmaceutical University announced the discovery of a new polymorph of indomethacin on June 9, 2026. This significant breakthrough was published in the prestigious journal Crystal Growth & Design.
Indomethacin’s newly discovered κ-form polymorph has the potential to impact drug solubility and stability, key factors in pharmaceutical development. This discovery contributes significantly to the field, as polymorphs can alter a drug’s effectiveness and manufacturability.
With the help of the XtaLAB Synergy-ED, developed by Rigaku and JEOL Ltd., the research team conducted structural analysis on this new polymorph. Measuring less than one micrometer, the κ-form’s crystals presented challenges for traditional X-ray diffraction methods.

Research Techniques and Impact

Employing the MicroED method, researchers determined the crystal structure and identified molecular arrangements contributing to the stability of the κ-form. MicroED technology has shown its potential in discovering previously undetectable polymorphs, enhancing pharmaceutical development.
Discovering new crystal polymorphs is rare, particularly in well-researched drugs like indomethacin. These findings can lead to improved drug formulations and a better understanding of drug behaviour. The κ-form is expected to facilitate future studies and advancements in pharmaceutical research.
Understanding intermolecular interactions within the crystal is crucial, as these interactions contribute to the polymorph’s stability. The effectiveness of MicroED in discovering new polymorphs highlights its potential to improve pharmaceutical quality and accelerate drug development processes.
Additional details can be found in the paper titled ‘Discovery of a New Polymorph, κ-form of Indomethacin,’ published in Crystal Growth & Design. This research underscores the importance of innovative technologies in advancing pharmaceutical science and showcases the collaborative efforts of Rigaku, Shionogi, JEOL, and Meiji Pharmaceutical University.

Last updated: 29 June 2026, 11:52 am