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As a dentist-scientist, Dr. Neelkantan have sees far too many patients, including his own family and friends, who suffer from the debilitating effects of cancer therapy, such as infected oral ulcers.

 

 

What are your ongoing research projects?

While cancer treatments have undoubtedly improved substantially, there is definitive need to improve post cancer care. These patients suffer from extremely painful ulcerations which get infected by opportunistic pathogens, notably fungi, which are almost impossible to eradicate due to their biofilm formation and antimicrobial resistance. My research aims to develop innovative approaches using cellular, organoid and mouse models to prevent/treat fungal infections and facilitate wound healing in immunocompromised individuals.

What research challenges are you facing?

I am a new investigator in Canada. While we do have the study models and potential druggable targets already discovered, finding sources of funding to develop competitive work towards large scale federal funding is rather challenging for translational research work.

How would you explain your current research to someone not in your field?

I study treating prostate cancer with radiotherapy. I am exploring improved treatments for prostate cancer and strategies to minimize side effects from radiation.

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?

I love to cook, as well as look at the atlas.