Sani, Rajesh

• Ph.D., Institute of Microbial Technology/Panjab University

• M.S.C., Indore University

• B.S.C., Meerut University

This project aims to develop and evaluate a sustainable, thermophilic exopolysaccharide (EPS)- based drug delivery system targeting head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (SCCHN). EPSs derived from Geobacillus sp. offers a biodegradable, thermally stable platform suitable for conjugating anticancer agents and targeting ligands. The study will synthesize BADMA conjugates, Biopolymer-Antitumor Drug-Monoclonal Antibody complexes, using EPS as the carrier, 10-hydroxycamptothecin (10-HCPT) as the chemotherapeutic agent, and cetuximab as the EGFR-targeting antibody.

During the 10-week summer period, an undergraduate student will be trained in EPS extraction, chemical conjugation using EDC/NHS chemistry, and characterization using FTIR and UV-vis spectroscopy.

The project emphasizes hands-on student training in biomaterials, drug delivery, and cancer biology while aligning with SD INBRE’s mission of fostering biomedical research and undergraduate mentorship in South Dakota. This study will also generate preliminary data supporting future NIH R15/STTR proposals.