Sutha Devaraj | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Sutha Devaraj | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Academic Researcher Award

Deputy Dean from Perdana University, Malaysia 

Sutha Devaraj is a dedicated researcher and academician with expertise in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in drug discovery and pharmacology. She earned her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in 2018, where her research focused on the development of optimized methods for preparing bioactive fractions of Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Bremek. Her work involved the quantification of the plant’s marker compound, contributing to advancements in natural product-based drug discovery. Before completing her Ph.D., Sutha obtained a Master’s in Pharmacology from USM in 2012. Her master’s thesis focused on the hepatoprotective properties of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Rox, exploring its potential for liver protection through its bioactive compounds. She also holds a B.Sc. (Hons) in Biotechnology from AIMST University, Malaysia, where she graduated with a CGPA of 3.41. This academic foundation in biotechnology provided her with a strong understanding of molecular biology and biochemistry, essential for her later research in pharmacology and drug development. Throughout her career, Sutha has contributed significantly to the study of plant-based compounds with medicinal properties, and her work has enhanced the understanding of their therapeutic potential. Her academic journey has been marked by a consistent focus on integrating practical research with innovative approaches in pharmaceutical sciences.

Professional Profile

Education

Sutha Devaraj’s educational background is distinguished by her specialized studies in pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology. She earned her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences with a focus on Drug Discovery from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) in 2018. Her doctoral thesis, titled Development of an Optimized Method for the Preparation of Bioactive Fraction of Strobilanthes crispus (L.) Bremek and the Quantification of its Marker Compound, was instrumental in advancing research on bioactive compounds derived from natural sources. This work enhanced the understanding of the therapeutic potentials of Strobilanthes crispus, contributing to both pharmaceutical science and ethnomedicine. Before completing her Ph.D., Sutha obtained her Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Pharmacology from USM in 2012. Her research focused on the hepatoprotective and pharmacological properties of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Rox, and she published findings related to the effectiveness of its standardized ethanolic extract in protecting the liver, demonstrating her expertise in pharmacological testing and drug development. Sutha’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Biotechnology (Hons) from AIMST University in 2008, where she graduated with a CGPA of 3.41. This early foundation in biotechnology paved the way for her subsequent advanced studies in pharmacology and pharmaceutical sciences.

Professional Experience

Sutha Devaraj has accumulated significant experience in the field of pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology. Throughout her career, she has worked with various academic and research institutions, where she has contributed to advancing the understanding of pharmacological mechanisms and drug discovery. As a researcher at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Sutha has actively participated in projects focusing on the isolation and quantification of bioactive compounds from plants, which has led to important findings on their therapeutic potentials. She has collaborated with both local and international researchers to examine the pharmacological properties of natural products, a focus that has shaped her work in drug discovery. In addition to her research roles, Sutha has also contributed to teaching and mentoring undergraduate and postgraduate students. She has shared her expertise in pharmacology and biotechnology, helping shape the next generation of scientists. Through her work, Sutha has built a strong professional reputation, earning recognition for her in-depth understanding of drug development processes and her ability to implement novel methodologies in her research.

Research Skills

Sutha Devaraj possesses a wide array of research skills essential to her work in pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology. Her proficiency in bioactive compound isolation and quantification has been demonstrated through her research on Strobilanthes crispus and Curcuma xanthorrhiza, both of which are significant to natural drug discovery. She is highly skilled in pharmacological testing, utilizing a range of in-vitro and in-vivo models to assess the therapeutic efficacy of plant-based extracts. In addition to her experimental capabilities, Sutha has expertise in analytical techniques such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry, which she has used to identify and quantify bioactive compounds in complex matrices. Her background in biotechnology provides her with a solid understanding of biochemical assays, including enzyme inhibition and receptor binding assays. Furthermore, Sutha has honed her skills in data analysis and interpretation, often using sophisticated statistical tools to evaluate research results. Her ability to combine these skills allows her to contribute to cutting-edge research in drug discovery, particularly in exploring new therapeutic agents derived from natural sources.

Research Interests

Sutha Devaraj’s research interests lie at the intersection of pharmacology, drug discovery, and natural products. She is particularly focused on the exploration of plant-based bioactive compounds and their potential applications in pharmaceutical development. Her Ph.D. research on Strobilanthes crispus exemplifies her dedication to the discovery of new therapeutic agents from natural resources. Sutha is passionate about investigating the hepatoprotective and anticancer properties of various plant species, particularly those indigenous to Southeast Asia. She is also interested in the mechanisms of action of these compounds, aiming to elucidate how they interact with biological systems to exert therapeutic effects. In addition to pharmacological studies, Sutha is keen on formulation development, specifically in optimizing methods for the preparation and stabilization of bioactive extracts. Her future research endeavors include furthering the development of natural-based drugs with fewer side effects compared to conventional synthetic drugs, contributing to a more sustainable and effective approach in pharmaceutical therapy.

Awards and Honors

Sutha Devaraj’s career has been marked by notable recognition for her academic and research contributions. She was awarded a PhD Fellowship by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), providing her with the opportunity to carry out high-impact research in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. Additionally, her M.Sc. research on Curcuma xanthorrhiza earned her accolades for its significance in hepatoprotective studies. Sutha’s ability to combine scientific rigor with practical applications has led to her work being published in well-respected, peer-reviewed journals. Her academic excellence and contributions to the field have earned her membership in several prestigious academic organizations and editorial positions in prominent journals related to pharmacology and drug development. Her work continues to be recognized by the academic community, highlighting her as an emerging leader in her field of expertise.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sutha Devaraj is an accomplished researcher with a strong academic background and expertise in pharmacology and drug discovery. Her dedication to advancing natural product research has led to valuable contributions in the areas of bioactive compound isolation and pharmacological evaluation. Sutha’s research skills, which include advanced analytical techniques and experimental methodologies, equip her to make meaningful advances in the development of therapeutic agents. Her research interests reflect a deep commitment to exploring sustainable and effective natural-based drugs, particularly those with hepatoprotective and anticancer properties. With a growing reputation in the field, Sutha’s work continues to inspire innovation in the pharmaceutical sciences, and her achievements and contributions make her a prominent figure in the ongoing search for new, safer therapeutic options.

Publications Top Notes

1. Evaluation of the Antinociceptive Activity and Acute Oral Toxicity of Standardized Ethanolic Extract of the Rhizome of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb

  • Authors: S. Devaraj, A.S. Esfahani, S. Ismail, S. Ramanathan, M.F. Yam

  • Journal: Molecules, 15(4), 2925–2934

  • Year: 2010

  • Citations: 97

2. Investigation of Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activity of Standardized Curcuma xanthorrhiza Rhizome in Carbon Tetrachloride‐Induced Hepatic Damaged Rats

  • Authors: S. Devaraj, S. Ismail, S. Ramanathan, M.F. Yam

  • Journal: The Scientific World Journal, 2014(1), 353128

  • Year: 2014

  • Citations: 75

3. Evaluation of the Hepatoprotective Activity of Standardized Ethanolic Extract of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb

  • Authors: S. Devaraj, S. Ismail, S. Ramanathan, S. Marimuthu, Y.M. Fei

  • Journal: Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 4(23), 2512–2517

  • Year: 2010

  • Citations: 53

4. Anti-Tumor Action, Clinical Biochemistry Profile and Phytochemical Constituents of a Pharmacologically Active Fraction of S. crispus in NMU-Induced Rat Model

  • Authors: N.S. Yaacob, H.M. Yankuzo, S. Devaraj, J.K.M. Wong, C.S. Lai

  • Journal: PLoS One, 10(5), e0126426

  • Year: 2015

  • Citations: 41

5. A Study on the Hepatoprotective Effect of Andrographis paniculata (Burm. F) Nees on Mice

  • Author: D. Sutha

  • Journal: Journal of Phytology, 2(11)

  • Year: 2010

  • Citations: 35

6. In Vivo Toxicological Investigations of Standardized Ethanolic Extract of Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb. Rhizome

  • Authors: S. Devaraj, S. Ismail, S. Ramanathan, M. FeiYam

  • Journal: Journal of Natural Products and Plant Resources, 3(1), 67–73

  • Year: 2013

  • Citations: 28

7. Explorations of CRISPR/Cas9 for Improving the Long-Term Efficacy of Universal CAR-T Cells in Tumor Immunotherapy

  • Authors: M. Naeem, A. Hazafa, N. Bano, R. Ali, M. Farooq, S.I. Abd Razak, T.Y. Lee, et al.

  • Journal: Life Sciences, 316, 121409

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 23

8. Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Antipyretic and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Aqueous-Methanolic Leaf Extract of Mangifera indica

  • Authors: Q.U. Ain, M.O. Iqbal, I.A. Khan, N. Bano, M. Naeem, M.I. Jamaludin, S. Devaraj

  • Journal: American Journal of Translational Research, 15(7), 4533

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 15

9. Pathogenetic Mechanisms of Liver-Associated Injuries, Management, and Current Challenges in COVID-19 Patients

  • Authors: M. Naeem, N. Bano, S. Manzoor, A. Ahmad, N. Munawar, S.I.A. Razak, T.Y. Lee, et al.

  • Journal: Biomolecules, 13(1), 99

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 10

10. Innovative Aspects and Applications of Single Cell Technology for Different Diseases

  • Authors: A. Ali, S. Manzoor, T. Ali, M. Asim, G. Muhammad, A. Ahmad, M.I. Jamaludin, et al.

  • Journal: American Journal of Cancer Research, 14(8), 4028

  • Year: 2024

  • Citations: 1

11. Understanding the Role of Pharmacology and Toxicology in the Research, Development, and Innovation Process by Analyzing the Drug Development Process

  • Authors: L. Waheed, I. Ur Rehman, S. Devaraj, F.H.G.Q. Al-Amier, P. Jativa, G. Naz, et al.

  • Journal: Journal of Pharmaceutical Negative Results, Vol. 14

  • Year: 2023

  • Citations: 1