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Duncan Khanikar

Assam Cancer Care Foundation, Dr BBCI

ORCID iD 0000-0002-4063-5487
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About

Dr. Duncan Khanikar is a distinguished Consultant Oncologist at the Assam Cancer Care Foundation in Dibrugarh, Assam, renowned for his academic excellence, clinical expertise, and contributions to oncology research. He earned his MBBS and MD in Medicine from Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) and a DM in Medical Oncology from the Gujarat Cancer and Research Institute. His advanced training includes specialization in Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT) during his tenure as Assistant Professor of Medical Oncology at Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute (BBCI), Guwahati, where he successfully performed BMT procedures, bringing advanced care to the region. His academic rigor is reflected in his numerous publications in reputed journals, addressing critical gaps in cancer treatment and management.

Dr. Khanikar’s career is marked by leadership in groundbreaking clinical trials. As Principal Investigator of the Phase IV ALPelisib India Safety Study (ALPINIST; Protocol No. CBYL719CIN01), he evaluated the safety of combining alpelisib (a PI3K inhibitor) with fulvestrant in men and postmenopausal women with HR-positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer harboring PIK3CA mutations, a genetic alteration linked to endocrine therapy resistance. This multicenter study provided vital insights into targeted therapies for a subset of patients with limited treatment options, potentially improving survival outcomes. His role as Co-Investigator in a global Phase III trial (2022–2023) further highlights his commitment to innovation. This trial compared Nanosomal Docetaxel Lipid Suspension (a novel formulation) with conventional Taxotere® in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients, aiming to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity in aggressive, chemotherapy-resistant cases. Both trials underscore his dedication to translating research into tangible advancements for challenging cancers.

Beyond research, Dr. Khanikar is deeply invested in education and mentorship. As an Assistant Professor at BBCI, he trains future oncologists, fostering expertise in complex therapies like BMT. His efforts have expanded access to advanced treatments in Northeast India, addressing regional healthcare disparities. Professionally, he engages with global oncology communities through memberships in ISMPO, ASCO, and ESMO, ensuring his practice remains informed by cutting-edge developments. These affiliations facilitate collaboration, enabling him to integrate international standards into local care.

Dr. Khanikar’s work exemplifies a patient-centric approach, blending clinical acumen with research innovation. His studies on PIK3CA mutations and novel drug formulations address pressing therapeutic challenges, while his BMT expertise offers hope to patients requiring intensive care. By bridging research and practice, he not only advances oncology knowledge but also directly impacts survival and quality of life for cancer patients in India and beyond.

Employment

  • Assam Cancer Care Foundation Consultant Oncologist
    2024 - Present
  • Dr BBCI Assistant Professor
    2021 - 2030

Education

Education history is unavailable.

Projects & Funding

Projects & funding information is unavailable.

Publications (19)