Molecular and Immunology Research
The Facility operates at the intersection of Immunology, Immunogenetics and computational biology with a strong emphasis on complex diseases such as Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Psoriasis, and Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). The lab is recognized for its multidisciplinary approach, combining in-silico modeling, molecular biology, and public health research to uncover novel biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and preventive strategies for chronic and emerging health challenges.
Our lab's core strength lies in its work on Type 1 Diabetes, with significant contributions to understanding the role of HLA-mediated immune responses. Several studies have elucidated the CD4+ T cell response to autoantigens such as GAD65 and IA2, highlighting HLA-DR3 and DQ2 associations in the North Indian population. These insights are critical for advancing precision immunotherapy and risk prediction models in autoimmune diseases.
In the domain of Psoriasis research, our group has employed an integrative in-silico pipeline encompassing molecular docking, machine learning (One-SVM), and molecular dynamics simulations with an aim to successfully repurpose FDA-approved drugs for psoriasis treatment. Complementary work using transcriptomic and network-based approaches has provided deep insights into the molecular cross-talk between psoriasis and its comorbidities.
The laboratory is also engaged in high-impact Public Health Projects funded by ICMR and DHR, addressing critical areas such as air pollution, maternal and child health and vector-borne disease prevention. Ongoing work on the air pollution exposure in pregnant women is uncovering mechanistic links to IUGR, particularly through the AhR/CYP1A signaling axis. Another significant project involves developing digital community engagement tools for vector-borne disease control across India (OMNIVEC-India), underscoring the lab’s translational vision.
As the designated Nodal Officer for two MRHRUs, I have also been responsible for comprehensive administration and scientific oversight of field-based rural health research activities. These include coordinating with central and state-level stakeholders for smooth functioning of the MRHRUs and overseeing project implementation, technical supervision, and field-level operations. Recently our group also contributed to national population-based health surveys and epidemiological surveillance through our MRHRU.
Our laboratory thrives on collaborative science, spanning computational and molecular biology, immunology, genomics, and public health research.