MUJ Scientist’s Research on Cancer: In a major academic breakthrough, Dr. Rajeev Nema, Associate Professor at the Department of Biosciences, Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ), has led a team of international researchers in publishing a comprehensive review on cancer-related proteins in Molecular Cancer — one of the most prestigious journals in the world, with an impact factor of 33.9.
The study focuses on Aurora kinases, a group of enzymes that play a critical role in the process of cell division. When these enzymes malfunction or are overproduced, they can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, a hallmark of many cancers including breast, lung, ovarian, colon, and prostate cancers.
“Our work brings together global evidence on how these kinases contribute to cancer progression and how they can be precisely targeted through new drugs already under development. Our work in the lab is more focused on the pulmonary cancer research and our objective is to develop a mechanism for the early detection of cancer” said Dr. Rajeev Nema, the corresponding author of the review.
Titled “Aurora Kinases Signalling in Cancer: From Molecular Perception to Targeted Therapies,” the review has been co-authored by scientists from AIIMS Bhopal and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York. It offers an in-depth look at Aurora A, B, and C kinases and explains why they have become prime targets for next-generation cancer therapies.
The paper also details more than 40 potential Aurora kinase inhibitors, several of which are currently undergoing clinical trials. These inhibitors are designed to disrupt cancer cell division while sparing normal cells — a key objective in precision oncology.
Beyond drug development, the review emphasizes the need for personalized treatment plans. By identifying which patients are most likely to benefit from these targeted therapies using genetic biomarkers, doctors could significantly improve treatment outcomes.
The Cancer Research Lab at Manipal University Jaipur (MUJ) is an integral part of the university’s advanced research ecosystem, established to strengthen the culture of scientific inquiry and contribute meaningfully to society. This state-of-the-art facility focuses on cutting-edge research in areas such as early cancer detection, advanced treatment strategies etc.
With a particular emphasis on lung cancer, the lab has gained national and international recognition for its impactful research. Researchers, faculty, and scholars work collaboratively to develop precise, personalized, and effective therapeutic solutions, aiming to address the global challenge of cancer and translate scientific advancements into societal benefits.
President, MUJ, Prof. N N Sharma congratulated the researcher and emphasised that MUJ’s research ecosystem is meant for the benefit of the society.
Dr. Nema’s work marks a proud moment for Manipal University Jaipur and adds to India’s growing contributions in the field of cancer research. The publication in Molecular Cancer places the study on a global platform, highlighting the importance of Indian research in shaping the future of personalized and precision-based cancer treatments.
This recognition also brings attention to Manipal University Jaipur’s expanding role in life sciences and biomedical research, and its collaborations with premier national and international institutions.
