Amrita School of Pharmacy recently hosted the Dr. G.N. Ramachandran Memorial Lecture on 28th October 2024, featuring two insightful presentations by eminent researchers. The event provided a platform for the latest insights into neurological and cancer research, highlighting the intersection of cutting-edge science and therapeutic innovation.

Dr. Chakrapani P.S., Hon. Director of the Centre for Neuroscience at Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi, delivered a lecture titled “Neurological Nexus: Stem Cells, Neuroregeneration, and the Gut-Brain Axis.” In his talk, Dr. Chakrapani highlighted promising research using stem cell-derived therapies from blood to treat Parkinson’s disease. He also discussed the intriguing effects of antibiotic-induced dysbiosis on anxiety responses in rats, shedding light on the potential role of gut microbiota in mental health.

The second lecture titled “Cancer Theranostics:Nanomedicine, Targeting, Imaging and Therapy delivered by Dr. Muthu M.S., Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology at Indian Institute of Technology, BHU Varanasi, focused on nanomicelle-based approaches for cancer therapy. Dr. Muthu introduced TPGS-based nanomicelles for targeted cancer treatment, utilizing transferrin receptors overexpressed on brain cancer cells for precise drug delivery. Additionally, he explored the theranostic potential of these nanomicelles by incorporating gold nanoparticles and other contrast agents to aid in both therapy and diagnostic imaging.

The lectures concluded with a lively question and answer session, allowing students and faculty to engage deeply with the speakers’ research. The sessions were attended by the students of 2022 and 2021 batches of B.Pharm, 2023 batch of M.Pharm, Ph.D scholars and faculty.