Figure 1 Dr. Murali M. Yallapu

Interview

TBCR: What inspired you to pursue a career in cancer immunology and nanomedicine?

Dr. Yallapu: Throughout my academic and scientific career, I have been consistently motivated by the challenge of addressing unmet medical needs, and cancer stood out as one of the most complex and devastating diseases. The immune system’s ability to naturally recognize and eliminate cancer cells is fascinating, yet tumors have evolved to evade this process. This evolving interaction between cancer biology and immune regulation sparked my deep interest in the field of cancer immunology. As a material scientist, my interest is in nanomedicine due to its transformative potential to revolutionize therapeutic delivery. This enables us to have more targeted and efficient treatment modalities, enhancing therapeutic efficacy while reducing systemic toxicity. By integrating the principles of immunology with nanomedicine, I believe we can pioneer innovative approaches that advance cancer therapy, improve patient outcomes, and lessen the overall burden of the disease.

TBCR: Can you discuss any recent breakthroughs in cancer nanomedicine that you find particularly promising?

Dr. Yallapu: The most promising recent breakthrough in cancer nanomedicine is the development of nanoparticle-based immunotherapies. These advancements are transforming cancer treatment by allowing for more precise tumor targeting and enhancing the immune system's ability to attack cancer cells. Particularly exciting is the combination of nanomedicine with checkpoint inhibitors, which can increase the efficacy and specificity of immunotherapy. Another notable advancement is the use of nanoparticles to overcome tumor-induced immunosuppression, rendering tumors more susceptible to immune attack. Collectively, these innovations have the potential to revolutionize cancer therapy and significantly improve patient survival outcomes.

TBCR: Can you explain the primary goals of your current research in nanomaterials and their applications in drug delivery?

Dr. Yallapu: My primary research goals focus on the development and application of nanomaterials for advanced drug delivery systems. I am particularly interested in designing nanoscale carriers, such as magnetic nanoparticles, self-assemblies, and modified polymer nanoparticles that can improve the precision and efficacy of therapeutic agents. My research explores engineered nanoformulations with prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), mucin 13 (MUC13), and peptides to enhance the targeted delivery of drugs to prostate, pancreatic, colon, liver, and lung tumors while minimizing toxicity to healthy tissues. My aim is to create nanosystems that not only treat but also monitor treatment progress in real time.

TBCR: How do you see your work contributing to the advancement of cancer therapies?

Dr. Yallapu: My work interface of nanomedicine and cancer immunology is poised to make significant contributions to the advancement of cancer therapies. By developing innovative MUC13 antibody-drug conjugate systems, it addresses one of the biggest challenges in cancer treatment. More importantly, our research idea of using nanomaterials to reverse tumor-induced immunosuppression is highly promising. This approach paves the road for reprogramming the tumor microenvironment for improved immune attack and, thus, an effective cancer treatment.

TBCR: What are some challenges you face in developing safe and effective nanoformulations for cancer immunotherapy? How did you overcome these challenges?

Dr. Yallapu: Developing safe and effective nanoformulations for cancer immunotherapy presents quite a few challenges. Firstly, the formulation must be biocompatible and non-toxic in nature while possessing specific tumor-targeting or immune cells. Additionally, efficient release and stability of therapeutic is also important. The main challenges are its clinical translation and regulatory affairs.

TBCR: As an editorial board member for various journals, what are some trends or common themes that are gaining attention? Which emerging trend are you most excited about?

Dr. Yallapu: In the recent past, I have noted a few new trends and themes gaining attention in the field of cancer research and nanomedicine including but not limited to cancer microenvironment, nanotechnology in immunotherapy, personalized and combination therapies, and artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine learning in nanomedicine. In addition, the emerging trend that excites me the most is the integration of nanotechnology with personalized medicine.

TBCR: How has your experience been as an Editorial Board Member of TBCR?

Dr. Yallapu: My experience as an Editorial Board Member of TBCR has been both inspiring and rewarding. It provided me with a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of breast cancer. In addition, it provided me with opportunities to review articles, quality research topics, and collaborations.

TBCR: As an Editorial Board Member, what are your expectations for TBCR?

Figure 1 Prof. Délio Marques Conde

Interview

TBCR: What initially inspired you to pursue a career in gynecology and obstetrics?

Prof. Conde: During medical school, we observed our professors a lot, even if not consciously. The example set by our professors is an eternal source of inspiration for us to invest in and pursue a particular specialty. I would also like to add that the particularities of gynecology and obstetrics, and their broad area of expertise, have always encouraged me.

In addition, I always had in mind that I would dedicate myself to treating breast diseases, especially breast cancer. To specialize in breast surgery in Brazil, you must first have completed a residency in general surgery or gynecology and obstetrics. That was what I did, I pursued my goal. I feel very happy with my choice, and it is rewarding.

TBCR: Could you provide a brief overview of the current publications on pelvic pain experienced by women? Are there any articles on the causes or management of pelvic pain that stood out to you?

Prof. Conde: Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in women is a complex, current, and challenging topic. It is challenging considering that the pelvis contains myofascial structures, the genitourinary and digestive systems in close relationship and it is sometimes very difficult to identify an anatomical cause of CPP.

In general, the publications address various aspects of CPP in women. In this sense, it is worth highlighting that the authors have investigated mental health, sexual function, quality of life, causes and pathophysiology of CPP, and multidisciplinary treatment of these women, among other aspects. There are good studies on CPP in women. I cite a review published by our group that provides a broader view of the topic (1).

TBCR: What are the current challenges in the management of chronic pelvic pain in women? Moving forward, what are some areas of research that you think should be explored to overcome these challenges?

Prof. Conde: I believe that understanding the pathophysiology of CPP in women and integrating the different areas or professionals who care for these women is challenging. Research and clinical practice show that pharmacological treatment is insufficient to cure pain in these patients. Furthermore, we know that surgery is indicated only in very specific circumstances. Therefore, it is crucial that gynecologists, urologists, nurses, physiotherapists, and psychologists share knowledge, contributing to the relief of CPP. In this scenario, the psychosocial approach is of fundamental relevance.

Future research should focus its efforts on understanding the pathophysiology of CPP in order to offer physiopathology-based targeted therapies. Furthermore, the integration of the different areas of knowledge will probably provide pain relief and a better quality of life for these women.

TBCR: As an educator, how do you ensure that your students and researchers are prepared for the challenges of a career in academic and clinical research in gynecology and obstetrics?

Prof. Conde:The answer to this question possibly sums up the reason why we have dedicated ourselves to medical education for almost 25 years. Medical education is complex, it requires persistence and a lot of dedication. At our university, we have a large theoretical and practical workload. Doctors must complete the course safely in order to practice their profession.

In addition to this aspect, in a country of continental dimensions like Brazil, where we sometimes have different needs in different regions, the great challenge is to encourage research. It is not possible to be a good doctor without research. We need to teach this from the first years of medical school so that students understand the relevance of science in their lives and in the lives of humanity. You only learn by doing. There is no other way. Hence the need to encourage research whenever possible, including it in curricular activities.