A pioneering Indian-American scientist, Navin Vardarajan, has secured a grant exceeding USD 1.1 million for his groundbreaking cancer research. The Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) awarded substantial grants to Navin Vardarajan and his colleague, Sanghyuk Chung, from the University of Houston. CPRIT is an organization dedicated to funding innovative cancer research and prevention programs within the state.
Navin, an associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, received a grant of USD 1,173,420 to enhance the effectiveness of T-cell immunotherapy. Meanwhile, Sanghyuk Chung, an associate professor of biology and biochemistry, was granted USD 811,617 to identify molecular targets for treating cervical cancer. Navin plans to utilize his funding to achieve consistent results for cancer patients undergoing T-cell immunotherapy. His approach involves manufacturing programmed T cells capable of recognizing and eliminating tumors.
Navin emphasized the importance of understanding each T cell’s capabilities and composition. By identifying the requirements for a positive response, he aims to control the cell composition to effectively combat cancer. This meticulous study will inform the development of the next generation of genetically modified cells, shaping the future of immunotherapy.
Navin explained that T cells present a challenge due to their diverse capabilities, requiring a nuanced approach at the single-cell level. This in-depth analysis allows researchers to map various functions onto the same cell, paving the way for advancements in immunotherapy.
Despite cervical cancer ranking as the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women globally, progress in its treatment has been limited over the past decade. Sanghyuk Chung’s award will support research into the underexplored role of estrogen in cervical cancer development. While the link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer is established, Chung highlighted the need to investigate additional co-factors contributing to this disease.
