In a world increasingly turning to nature for answers to modern health challenges, Indian-origin scientist Dr Kamal Dua is leading groundbreaking research that bridges ancient wisdom and cutting-edge science. Based at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), Dr Dua and his team are exploring the therapeutic potential of plant-based compounds, such as berberine and curcumin, to combat diseases like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer.
Dr Kamal Dua is an Associate Professor in the Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health; Translational Research Lead, Australian Research Consortium in Complementary and Integrative Medicine (ARCCIM), Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, and Research Leader at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Macquarie University.
Dr Dua’s work has garnered international attention, with his research on berberine—a compound found in plants like barberry and turmeric—being hailed as a potential game-changer in the fight against lung cancer. His findings, published in Pharmaceutics, reveal that berberine can inhibit the growth of lung cancer cells in laboratory settings, offering a promising avenue for future treatments.
“Nature has always been a rich source of healing,” Dr Dua told SBS Hindi. “Our research is about validating traditional medicine through rigorous scientific methods to develop safe and effective therapies for complex diseases.”
From Traditional Medicine to Modern Breakthroughs
Dr Dua’s journey into the world of plant-based medicine is deeply rooted in his Indian heritage. Growing up in India, he was exposed to the healing properties of herbs and spices like turmeric, long revered in Ayurveda and traditional Chinese medicine. This early fascination with natural remedies has now evolved into a career dedicated to unlocking their scientific potential.
His research focuses on the anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties of compounds like berberine and curcumin. Berberine, in particular, has shown remarkable promise in laboratory studies, demonstrating its ability to target lung cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. This discovery has been widely covered in international media, including Medical News Today, which reached over 1.1 million viewers, and Germany’s official health portal for pharmacists, aponet.de.
“Berberine is a fascinating compound,” Dr Dua explained in an interview with Interesting Engineering. “It not only has anti-cancer properties but also shows potential in managing metabolic disorders and gut health. This multi-functional nature makes it a valuable candidate for further research.”
National Recognition in The Australian’s 2025 Research Magazine
Dr Dua’s contributions to science have not gone unnoticed. His work has been prominently featured in The Australian’s 2025 Research Magazine, which showcases Australia’s best and brightest in the field of research. The magazine highlights his innovative approach to harnessing the power of traditional medicine to address modern health challenges, particularly in the areas of lung cancer and inflammation.
“Being recognised in The Australian’s Research Magazine is a tremendous honour,” Dr Dua said. “It reflects the importance of our work and the potential it has to make a real difference in people’s lives. This recognition also underscores the value of interdisciplinary research that combines traditional knowledge with modern science.”
The feature in The Australian further cements Dr Dua’s reputation as a leading figure in the global scientific community. His research on the gut microbiome and its role in inflammatory diseases like COPD has also received significant funding, highlighting the far-reaching impact of his work.
A Global Impact
Dr Dua’s work has resonated far beyond Australia. His findings have been disseminated across multiple platforms, including SciTech Daily, Sputnik Globe, and RevYuH, highlighting the global interest in plant-based therapies. The research has also sparked collaborations with international institutions, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.
One of the most significant aspects of Dr Dua’s research is its potential to offer affordable and accessible treatments for diseases that disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries. Lung cancer, for instance, is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with limited treatment options for advanced stages.
“Our goal is to develop therapies that are not only effective but also accessible,” Dr Dua told TRT World. “Plant-based compounds like berberine are cost-effective and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. By validating their efficacy, we can bring these treatments to the forefront of modern healthcare.”
A Vision for the Future
Dr Dua’s research is part of a broader movement at UTS, where scientists are exploring innovative uses of traditional medicine. His work on the gut microbiome and its role in inflammatory diseases like COPD has also received significant funding, underscoring the importance of his contributions to global health.
As Dr Dua continues to push the boundaries of science, he remains committed to his roots. “Traditional medicine is a treasure trove of knowledge,” he said in an interview with Zoomer Health. “By combining it with modern technology, we can unlock solutions to some of the most pressing health challenges of our time.”
With his groundbreaking research, national recognition, and unwavering dedication, Dr Kamal Dua is not only honouring his Indian heritage but also paving the way for a healthier future for all.
This story is based on information sourced from SBS Hindi, Medical News Today, aponet.de, The Australian’s 2025 Research Magazine, and other referenced publications.
