Indore’s DAVV Scientist Gets ₹56 Lakh Grant To Conduct Research On Treating Advanced Breast Cancer

Indore (Madhya Pradesh): In a significant boost to cancer research, Dr Chanchal Sonkar from the Life Sciences Department of Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya (DAVV) has received a Rs 56 lakh grant under the ANRF–ECRG (Anusandhan National Research Foundation Early Career Research Grant).

The funding will support her pioneering study focused on improving treatment strategies for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), one of the most aggressive and difficult forms of cancer to treat.

Dr Sonkar’s research aims to create a targeted multi-drug nano gel that selectively attacks cancer cells without harming healthy tissues. “The major issue with TNBC is its high mutation rate and the fact that it functions through multiple signalling pathways, which makes it resistant to many standard therapies,” she said.

By targeting these pathways simultaneously, her approach could help eliminate the cancer from its roots.

The nano gel is specially engineered to respond to the pH and enzymatic environment of cancer cells, ensuring that the drugs act only where needed. This could drastically reduce the side effects patients commonly experience during treatment. If successful, the research may lead to commercialisation in collaboration with pharmaceutical companies.

Highlighting the department’s overall commitment to innovation, Head of Department Dr Anjana Jajoo said DAVV continues to prioritize high-quality research. Dr Jajoo, who is recognised among the top 2% of researchers globally, is also leading another major project on microplastic biodegradation using bacteria.

The department currently runs postgraduate programmes in Life Sciences and Industrial Microbiology, along with an undergraduate program in B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture. Admissions for these will be conducted through a merit-based, non-CUET process.

DAVV’s expanding research footprint reflects its dedication to solving both medical and environmental challenges through cutting-edge science.