Dr. Ajab Khan, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences at UVAS Swat, has achieved a remarkable milestone in cancer research with his latest publication in the Asian Journal of Agriculture and Biology. His study, conducted in collaboration with international researchers, explores the therapeutic potential of recombinant porcine NK-Lysin (rpNK-Lysin) against hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) — one of the world’s most lethal cancers.
Key highlights of his research excellence include:
- Novel Discovery: Demonstrated that rpNK-Lysin inhibits the metastatic biomarker Fascin-1, a protein linked to cancer cell invasion and metastasis.
- Mechanistic Insight: Identified that rpNK-Lysin regulates the MAPK signaling pathway, suppressing ERK1/2, RSK2, and CREB1 phosphorylation, which ultimately blocks Fascin-1 expression and filopodia formation.
- Advanced Techniques: Utilized scanning electron microscopy, qPCR, and western blotting to confirm the cytopathic and anti-metastatic effects of rpNK-Lysin on multiple HCC cell lines (SMMC-7721, MHCC 97H, HepG2).
- Therapeutic Potential: Established rpNK-Lysin as a promising anti-tumor agent with selective cytotoxicity against cancer cells, while sparing healthy cells.
- Global Collaboration: Worked alongside leading scientists from Shanxi Agricultural University (China) and University of Agriculture, Dera Ismail Khan, strengthening Pakistan’s contribution to international cancer research.
- Impact: His findings open new avenues for developing novel anti-neoplastic therapies, positioning rpNK-Lysin as a potential substitute for conventional HCC treatments.
This achievement underscores Dr. Ajab Khan’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and highlights UVAS Swat’s growing role in cutting-edge biomedical research.