Gujarat signs pact with BCIL to strengthen state biotechnology ecosystem

The agreement was part of the Cancer Research and Innovation conclave organised by Gujarat State Biotechnology Mission (GSBTM) bringing together leading scientists, clinicians, and innovators to discuss cutting-edge developments in cancer research and therapy, with a special focus on translational impact and societal outreach.

While highlighting the key features of the MoA, Dr Purnima Sharma, Director, BCIL, emphasised that early engagement of a technology transfer office significantly reduces the risk of failure during the later stages of technology translation and commercialisation.

Discussions highlighted the prevalence of various cancers, with ovarian cancer ranking as the third most prevalent, noting that early detection can significantly reduce disease burden. Key thematic areas included epigenetic factors influencing cancer development and relapse, drug repurposing and advanced tools for diagnostics and therapeutics.

The conclave witnessed participation from over 100 cancer researchers representing more than 20 institutions. Gujarat continues to remain at the forefront of cancer research and therapy development; however, enhancing societal outreach and clinical translation of these research outcomes was identified as a critical need, experts said in a statement.

The conclave served as a platform to explore transformative national and state initiatives across cancer research, clinical oncology, diagnostics, therapeutics, and pioneering technological innovations, fostering synergy between state institutions, national research bodies, clinicians and innovators.

Experts deliberated on emerging platforms such as Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell (CAR-T) therapy, Bio-AI–based diagnostics, altered drug delivery systems, and photomedicine.

The conclave featured insightful deliberations from leading clinicians and experts who shared practical perspectives on cancer diagnosis and treatment. Discussions emphasised the critical role of molecular biology–driven diagnostics in reducing post-treatment and post-surgical cancer relapse, alongside emerging advances in therapeutic approaches such as photomedicine. The importance of early diagnosis and patient support mechanisms, including helplines and guidance systems, was also highlighted.