Research

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and joint destruction. Synovial macrophages are among the key players in the pathogenesis of RA. RNA interference is a promising strategy for selectively inhibiting gene expression in synovial macrophages using siRNAs. 

However, selecting the most effective siRNA sequence is crucial for the success of this approach. The Nanobiotechnology lab is involved in conducting a comparative analysis of potential siRNA candidates (AZD8601; ALN-RSV01; JAK1 siRNA; NF-κB siRNA) targeting three different receptors (Folate receptor; CD44; Scavenger Receptor) on the synovial macrophages in RA. 

Our study also explores a synergistic approach to RA therapy using targeted liposomal co-delivery of MTX and siRNA, aimed at macrophage repolarization. 

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and a leading cause of death in women worldwide. HER2-positive breast cancer accounts for about 20-30% of all breast cancer cases. HER2 overexpression is associated with poor prognosis, aggressive tumor growth, and resistance to traditional chemotherapy. Most available treatments fail due to secondary recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. MicroRNAs like miR155 & miR145 play a crucial regulatory role in drug resistance to a specific drug like paclitaxel/docetaxel. 

The Nanobiotechnology lab is involved in the co-delivery of microRNAs (miR155inhibitor/miR145mimic) and chemotherapy drugs (paclitaxel or docetaxel) using an immunoliposome-based delivery system for the treatment of HER2-positive breast cancer. 

The Indian plastics industry is experiencing rapid growth, with an annual consumption rate of 16%. Gujarat emerges as the prominent hub for plastics processing, boasting over 5,000 plastics firms. However, amidst this growth, there's growing concern over microplastics. These tiny particles, whether manufactured intentionally or formed through natural processes, pose a threat to the environment and human health. They can enter the body through ingestion and inhalation, potentially accumulating and causing adverse effects.

The Zebrafish Lab focuses on studying the effects of microplastics on the environment, utilizing the zebrafish as a model organism. This choice underscores the zebrafish's significance in environmental research due to its transparency and genetic similarity to humans. This research not only enhances our understanding of environmental impacts but also highlights the importance of comprehensively studying the effects of human-made materials, even at the nanoscale, on natural ecosystems.