Pranav is currently undertaking a collaborative PhD working with Associate Professor Joseph Nicolazzo, Monash University and Dr Gabby Watson, WEHI on engineering nanobodies capable of overcoming the blood-brain barrier.
This unique collaborative project is funded through The Brain Cancer Centre investigating overcoming the blood-brain barrier.
Pranav has been awarded the Dine For A Cure 2023 GBM Scholarship. He is also teaching units across the Bachelor’s and Master’s of Pharmaceutical Science course at Monash University.
Here Pranav gives us an insight into his research and aspirations for the difference this will make for brain cancer patients.
Where did you study prior to commencing your PhD?
Before embarking on my PhD journey at WEHI, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Science Honours from Monash University. A key focus of my degree was understanding the intricacies of blood-brain barrier dynamics in the Joseph Nicolazzo lab.
What drew you to work on brain cancer?
Neurological disorders have always been a subject of immense dedication for me. Witnessing the devastating impact of brain cancer and recognising the limited success of existing therapies, I have been continually inspired to make a difference in this challenging area. The realisation that potential game-changing drug candidates are impeded by the blood-brain barrier, preventing them from reaching the tumour, has ignited an unwavering passion within me. I am truly honoured to have the opportunity to overcome this obstacle and pave the path towards enhanced treatments not only for brain cancer but also for a range of other neurological disorders.
What’s your biggest achievement so far?
My greatest achievement thus far is the opportunity to be part of this exceptional program, which not only enables me to engage in groundbreaking research but also learn from remarkable researchers and mentors across two of Australia’s most prestigious institutes, WEHI and Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Being a part of this program has provided me with invaluable experiences and the chance to contribute positively to the community. Witnessing the profound impact that this program has had and continues to have is incredibly fulfilling on a personal level.
Can you describe your research?
Gliomas are a highly aggressive form of brain cancer that often resist conventional treatments. One contributing factor is the blood-brain barrier (BBB), a protective mechanism that shields the brain by limiting the entry of potentially harmful substances from the bloodstream. As a result, when a brain cancer patient receives medication, only a fraction of it crosses the brain to reach the
site of the tumour. In my research, I aim to develop nanobodies which are tiny proteins that specifically target a receptor on the barrier (transferrin-1) capable of naturally enabling the transport of molecules into the brain. These nanobodies are thus able to take a “Trojan horse” approach and potentially hijack this receptor enabling them to be efficient transporters of a drug across the barrier and into the brain where the tumour resides.
What’s your hope for your research?
I hope to make meaningful advancements in the treatment of brain cancer by developing innovative strategies which enable the effective delivery of transformative drug candidates across the blood-brain barrier. I also hope that my research extends positive outcomes beyond brain cancer by improving therapeutic outcomes across other debilitating neurological disorders.
What are your hobbies?
Outside work, I love to explore the outdoors, and push the boundaries of adrenaline by seeking thrilling adventures such as shark and sky diving.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I have received is to KISS or Keep it simple, stupid. Despite the intricacies of science, it is crucial to maintain a focus on simplicity and seek practical strategies that can be translated into real-world applications.
