Pune: CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, hosted the prestigious Prof J W McBain Memorial Lecture, featuring Dr Rahul Purwar, Professor, Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, IIT Bombay, as the Chief Guest.
Dr Rahul Purwar delivered a keynote address titled “First ‘Make in India’ CAR-T Cell Therapy – From R&D to Clinic to Market,” emphasizing India’s growing leadership in indigenous cell-based therapeutic innovations.
Dr Rahul Purwar Highlights India’s Breakthrough in CAR-T Cell Therapy
During his address, Dr Rahul Purwar underscored the role of T-cells as the body’s defense mechanism and explained how CAR-T cell therapy is transforming global cancer treatment by offering personalized, long-term remission outcomes.
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He highlighted that, while conventional treatments like chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy have saved millions, the emergence of immunotherapy and gene therapy marks a new era in oncology.
However, he pointed out that affordability remains a significant barrier, with less than 1% of eligible patients in developing countries accessing CAR-T therapy. “If the cost is the only barrier, let us try at least,” he said, recalling the motivation that led to the creation of India’s own CAR-T platform.
ImmunoACT’s NexCAR19: A Milestone in India’s Biotech Innovation
Dr Rahul Purwar detailed the decade-long journey of ImmunoACT, the biotech startup behind NexCAR19, India’s first indigenous CAR-T therapy.
Developed through collaborations with IIT Bombay, Tata Memorial Centre, and Laurus Labs, NexCAR19 represents a scalable, efficacious, and affordable solution for cancer care.
Clinical studies have demonstrated response rates of up to 80% in certain cancers, marking a significant step toward accessible precision medicine in India.
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CSIR-NCL Commemorates Scientific Legacy and Innovation
The lecture series commemorates the contributions of Prof J W McBain in colloid and surface chemistry, inspiring young researchers toward innovation and excellence.
The event began with a welcome by Dr Swati Chadha, followed by remarks from Dr Varun Natu and an introduction by Dr Mugdha Gadgil. Retired employees of CSIR-NCL were also felicitated for their contributions. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Chadha.
CSIR-NCL continues to serve as a leading research and development institution under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), fostering industry partnerships and scientific innovation in chemistry and chemical engineering.
