The recent award selection for the Prof. A N Bhaduri Memorial Lecture Award has generated a stir. Selected for this prestigious honor is Dr. Susanta Kar from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research- Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI), situated in Lucknow, India. The Society of Biological Chemists (India), the organization that established this award, was founded back in 1930 and has its headquarters at the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore.
About the CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute
The CSIR- Central Drug Research Institute (CSIR-CDRI) is recognized as one of India’s premier drug research institutes. With its HeadQuarters stationed in Lucknow, India, the institute has made influential strides in the field of drug research.
The Outstanding Contribution of Dr. Susanta Kar
The Prof. A N Bhaduri Memorial Lecture Award has been presented to Dr. Susanta Kar in recognition of his significant contributions towards understanding the survival mechanisms of Leishmania donovani. This harmful protozoan parasite, known to infect macrophages, is the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis (Kala Azar), an infectious disease with lethal implications that currently affects millions worldwide.
Research on Leishmania donovani
Dr. Susanta Kar’s research group has closely studied the interactions of Leishmania with immune cells such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells. They have meticulously examined the impact of these interactions on the progression of the infection and the subsequent immune response.
Criteria for the Award
The Prof. A N Bhaduri Memorial Lecture Award is conferred every two years. Its recipients are required to be under 50 years of age. The award is especially given for accomplishments in Biological Chemistry and Allied sciences, with a preference towards studies related to parasitic infections.
About Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is a disregarded tropical disease that currently affects nearly 100 countries worldwide, including India. These neglected tropical diseases are a varied group of communicable diseases that are prevalent in tropical and subtropical conditions in 149 countries.
The Cause and Types of Leishmaniasis
The disease is caused by a parasite referred to as Leishmania, which is transmitted through the bite of sand flies. There are three types of leishmaniasis:
1. Visceral Leishmaniasis: This type affects multiple organs and is the most severe form of the disease.
2. Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: This causes skin sores and is the most common form.
3. Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis: This results in lesions on the skin and mucosal tissues.
In India, visceral leishmaniasis, more commonly known as Kala-azar, is fatal in over 95% of cases if left untreated.
