M Kumar's Biography

M Kumar, Professor, University of Strathclyde

Prof Kumar and his group aim to harness the full therapeutic potential of existing drug molecules by devising new ways of making them reach and act at the target site in the body. His research addresses diverse areas like women health, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and arthritis.  In addition, the implication of free radicals in most of the diseased conditions has motivated the group to vigorously pursue dietary and endogenous antioxidants as preferred treatment options. Considering the advantages associated with oral delivery, the focus of research is on development of suitable nanoparticulate formulations to use this bio-interface that is primarily designed by the body for exchange of material with the environment.  Current research with polymeric nanoparticles is targeted towards reducing the toxicity and increasing the efficacy of existing drugs and establishing utility of potent drugs for alternative indications that are not realized by conventional delivery systems. He is the recipient of Indian National Science Academy’s Young Scientist Medal (2007); Tom Gibson Memorial Award from British Society of Plastic Surgeons & Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons, Glasgow (2008) and Royal Pharmaceutical Society Science Medal (2009) for his contributions in Nanomedicines.