NU researchers’ nanotech nasal spray can heal brain tumours

Nagpur: Researchers from Nagpur University's postgraduate department of pharmaceutical sciences have developed a new treatment method for the direct delivery of drugs through the nose to target brain tumours using nanoparticles.Professor Veena Shailendra Belgamwar and Dr Sagar Trivedi carried out this innovative research under the ‘Inspire Fellowship' from govt of India's Department of Science and Technology. They said that current treatment methods offer no alternative to chemotherapy for cancer patients, where drugs are administered through the bloodstream, often affecting other organs adversely.Called the ‘Novel Targeted Drug Delivery System', the treatment method delivers medication directly to the brain through neurons, bypassing the bloodstream. The drug delivery method has been patented by the duo.The researcher duo explained in a press release that through a nasal spray, the nanoparticles in the medication reach the brain tumours. "This new treatment ensures that the medication reaches the brain tumours without being obstructed by the bloodstream, reducing the risk of damage to other organs. The new method can be used to treat cancer patients at any stage. Unlike traditional methods that require hospital admission for chemotherapy or other treatments, this new approach allows patients to receive treatment conveniently under medical supervision, saving time and money," the release stated.This treatment method utilises natural components and bioactive elements, creating a new treatment method to combat cancer using natural ingredients. The university provided significant support by funding this research work.Belgamwar and Trivedi have received two patents for the ‘Novel Targeted Drug Delivery System'. Trivedi has published 12 international research papers and 5 book chapters on this treatment method, the release added. Trivedi presented this research at an international conference in Bologna, Italy, supported by SERB from govt of India's Department of Science and Technology.NU acting vice-chancellor Madhavi Khode Chaware (IAS), registrar Raju Hivase, and department head Prashant Puranik have congratulated the duo.