The
main areas of the facultys expertise and interest include sequence
analysis by genetic algorithms (Dr. Narayan Behera) comparative studies
on the mechanisms of transcriptional regulation (Dr. Kshitish Acharya),
sequence dependent structural properties of DNA (Prof. Manju Bansal)
and computational structural biology (Dr. N. Yathindra). The research
activities involve both computational and experimental approaches.
Collaborative and contract research projects are also being considered.
Publications from IBAB and tools developed by our students and faculty
are enumerated here.
A small snapshot is provided of the work of the faculty 1:Dr. N. Yathindra
Modeling the structures of RNases H and their substrate complexes towards design of inhibitorsNew insights into DNA triplex structures and DNA triplex bending.
2:Dr. Kshitish Acharya
1. Analysis of mechanisms of regulation of transcription:A. Database of co-regulated genes and development of a mammalian promoter prediction tool:B. Studies on RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in the context of transcription regulation:2. Cloning and expressing genetically engineered peptides with potential epitopic regions of chosen diagnostic antigens:
3:Dr. Shipra Agrawal
Meta
data analysis of microarray expression data of human cancers and
genetically inherited disorders are being performed to decode the
pathway cross-talk information. Computational analysis and database
development has also been initiated on small regulatory RNA molecules,
cancer epigenesis and chromatin remodeling factors. . 4:Dr. Narayan Behera
Sequence alignments of proteins and RNAs by genetic algorithmMicro-array data analysis by evolutionary computation 5:Dr. Vibin Ramakrishnan
Protein Folding and design:
Research on protein folding and design are mutually complementary. A
design attempt, even an unsuccessful one will contribute to the
understanding of the folding phenomena. On the other hand a successful
design requires knowledge of the process by which the protein folds.
Investigation of folding pathways, possible transition states and
kinetics can increase the success rate in designing new protein
molecules with tailor made functions. It can also illumine research
efforts on protein mis-folding/aggregation and possible therapeutic
intervention at a later stage.Biomarkers/Biosensors:
Proposed project envisages design of artificial hetero-tactic protein
constructs pregnant with a functional moiety. This functional molecule
can act as a transducer. The protein scaffold and the transducer
molecule together can be programmed for specific targets. 6:Dr. Gayatri Saberwal
My
group researches the bio-pharma industry, both in India and abroad.
Aside from studying the formation and nature of companies per se, we
also analyze their patent holdings. We believe that such studies, both
quantitatve and qualitative, will prove useful to policy making that is
geared °to supporting the industry.In
addition we are publishing a series of general articles in Current
Science entitled Bio-business in brief. These articles highlight
different aspects of industry, possibly of interest to academic
researchers. We hope that over time they will help promote the
engagement of academia with industry, vital to producing a knowledge
driven industry, itself essential to ensure a healthier India. | 
