HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC), in collaboration with SunAct – Advanced Cancer Therapies, has launched its fourth national Centre of Excellence for Cell and Gene Therapy at HCGMCC, Nashik. This initiative aims to bring cutting-edge cancer treatment options closer to patients in semi-urban and rural areas of North Maharashtra.
The new centre was inaugurated by Dr Shripad Banavali, Chairperson of the Paediatric Haemato-Oncology Chapter at the Indian Academy of Paediatrics and Academic Director at Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. Dr Kumar Prabhash, Head of Medical Oncology (Solid Tumours) at Tata Memorial Hospital, was present as the Guest of Honour. The event saw participation from oncologists, researchers, healthcare experts, and patient support groups.
Speaking at the launch, Dr Banavali emphasized the significance of the collaboration:
“This initiative is transforming cancer care in Maharashtra. Establishing this Centre in Nashik marks a major advancement, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in oncology across India.”
Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) is revolutionizing the landscape of personalized medicine. Unlike conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, CGT targets the disease at its genetic roots. Cell therapies, such as CAR-T cell therapy, reprogram immune cells to attack cancer, while Gene Therapy works by repairing or replacing faulty genes contributing to the disease.
“These therapies hold exceptional potential, especially for blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma. We’re also exploring their use in solid tumors,” noted Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services and Managing Director at KIMS Manavata Hospitals and HCG Manavata Cancer Centre. “This Centre is not just about advanced treatment; it represents hope for patients who have exhausted conventional options.”
Senior specialists from HCG Manavata who were present included Dr Priyatesh Dwivedi (Haematology-Oncology), Dr Shreeniwas Raut, and Dr Mukesh Chaudhari (both Medical Oncology). Representing SunAct were Dr Vijay Patil (Founder), Mr Kushagra Sharma (CEO), and Dr Ashay Karpe (Co-founder).
Dr Vijay Patil shared the broader mission: “Our goal is to democratize world-class cancer therapies and bring them to communities where they are most needed.”
Dr Ashay Karpe added, “This new centre in Nashik is another step in our journey to make advanced therapies accessible, affordable, and driven by innovation and research.”
Mr Kushagra Sharma reiterated, “Through our partnership with HCG Manavata, we are delivering tomorrow’s cancer treatments to today’s patients, regardless of their geographic location.”
The Centre of Excellence will offer a comprehensive array of services including CAR-T, TCR, and TIL therapies, gamma delta T-cell platforms, gene therapies, bone marrow transplants, precision diagnostics, and participation in clinical trials.
Dr Nagarkar concluded, “This facility will act as a nucleus for innovation, research, and compassionate, patient-first care empowering both medical teams and families in the fight against cancer.”
