Young Iranian Scientist Wins Top Prize for New Way to Fight Cancer Resistance
Sepideh Mirzaei-Varzeghani’s discovery could help patients whose tumors stop responding to treatment
Cancer treatment is often a long and difficult journey. Many patients respond well to medicine at first, but after a while, the cancer “learns” how to fight back and the drugs stop working. This problem is called drug resistance, and it is one of the biggest challenges doctors face in saving lives.
This year, a young Iranian scientist, Dr. Sepideh Mirzaei-Varzeghani, was awarded the Mustafa Prize Young Scientist Medal for finding a new way to tackle this issue. The Mustafa Prize is one of the most important scientific awards in the Muslim world, and her win puts her among the brightest young minds in global research.
Dr. Mirzaei-Varzeghani has been studying tiny molecules in our bodies called RNAs. These molecules don’t make proteins like normal genes do, but instead they act like switches—turning certain processes on or off inside cells. One of the processes they can control is a powerful system called NF-κB, which helps cancer cells survive and resist medicine.
What she discovered is that by using special types of RNAs (called microRNAs), scientists may be able to “switch off” NF-κB in cancer cells. This could make the cancer sensitive to medicine again, so the treatment starts working where it had stopped.
In simple terms: her research shows a possible way to “re-teach” cancer to respond to drugs, giving patients a better chance of recovery.
At the award ceremony in Tehran, she received a medal, a certificate, and a cash prize. But more importantly, her work gives hope to millions of patients around the world.
For Shia Journeys, stories like this remind us that Iran is not only a land of holy shrines and cultural treasures but also a country where science and medicine are advancing at the highest level. For those struggling with infertility, chronic illness, or cancer, Iran is becoming a center of hope—where faith and science walk hand in hand.
How Shia Journeys Can Help
At Shia Journeys, we believe that travel can serve both the soul and the body. Alongside visits to Iran’s sacred shrines and cultural landmarks, we can help guide and support those seeking medical consultations or treatments in Iran. Whether you’re exploring advanced cancer therapies, fertility support at world-class centers like the Royan Institute, or simply want to combine a pilgrimage with access to trusted healthcare, Shia Journeys is here to make the process smooth and meaningful.
Your journey to Iran can be more than a trip—it can be a step towards healing, faith, and new beginnings.