On Wednesday, 26 March 2025, the University of Johannesburg (UJ) hosted the professorial inauguration of Professor Blassan George, a leading expert in Cancer Biology, Phytopharmacology, and Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) within the Faculty of Health Sciences. The prestigious event took place at UJ’s Ubuntu Chambers, Madibeng Building, Auckland Park Kingsway Campus.
Professor George’s inaugural address, titled “Phyto-Powered Photodynamic Therapy: Green Innovation in Cancer Treatment”, highlighted his research into harnessing natural compounds for advanced cancer therapies. Following his address, Professor Heidi Abrahamse, Director of UJ’s Laser Research Centre, provided a response. The event was attended by esteemed guests, including Prof Sehaam Khan, Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic, and Prof Annie Temane, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences.
Advancing cancer therapy with natural solutions
Professor George’s research focuses on enhancing PDT for cancer treatment by integrating natural photosensitizers, nanotechnology, and targeted therapy. His work primarily targets breast and lung cancer, aiming to develop non-invasive treatments that reduce damage to healthy tissue.
Medicinal plants have long been recognised for their bioactive compounds with anticancer properties. Professor George investigates plant-derived phytochemicals—such as those in Rubus fairholmianus, Dicoma anomala, and Punica granatum—for their potential in cancer prevention and therapy.
PDT, which uses light-sensitive compounds to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) that destroy cancer cells, faces challenges such as limited light penetration and precise targeting. Natural photosensitizers, including chlorophyll derivatives and curcumin, offer biocompatible alternatives with strong anticancer potential.
To overcome PDT limitations, nanotechnology is employed to enhance photosensitizer stability, delivery, and tumour targeting. Additionally, tumour-specific ligands like antibodies and peptides enable precise drug delivery, reducing systemic toxicity.
By combining natural photosensitizers, nanotechnology, and targeted therapy, Professor George’s work optimises PDT for greater tumour selectivity and minimal side effects, paving the way for more effective and personalised cancer treatments.
Academic and research journey
Professor Blassan George is a Researcher at UJ, specialising in cancer therapies using medicinal plants and PDT. Previously, he lectured in Biotechnology at CMS College of Science and Commerce, India.
His passion for cancer research—shaped by personal experience—led him to join UJ’s Laser Research Centre as a Postdoctoral Fellow. After three years, he was appointed as a researcher and later promoted to Associate Professor and Full Professor in 2024.
Professor George has presented at over 40 international conferences and participated in numerous biomedical research workshops. He was recognised as the Outstanding Postdoctoral Fellow at the LRC for three consecutive years and received the NRF Y1 Rating in 2021.
With his groundbreaking work in natural, nanotechnology-enhanced cancer therapies, Professor George is at the forefront of pioneering innovative and sustainable approaches to cancer treatment.
