Nutrition, metabolism and gene expression

The problem

Malnutrition is a major healthcare problem that affects the entire human population in one form or another. Both undernutrition and overnutrition pose significant risks for cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. In India, the National Survey of Family Health (NFHS) identified that adolescents are increasingly showing signs of both undernutrition (stunting) and overnutrition (obesity). This double burden of malnutrition has been shown to be a risk factor for later-life metabolic disorders. We focus on different forms of malnutrition to understand the mechanisms of long-term defects. Our research will help to develop nutritional strategies (precision nutrition) to prevent the onset of metabolic disorders.

The approach

Vitamin D signaling in health and disease

Vitamin D is a critical modulator of metabolism, bone health, pancreatic function, and immunity. While the importance of vitamin D is well established and fortification strategies have been developed worldwide, the vitamin D deficiency remains a significant concern. The biological functions of the hormonal form of vitamin D are primarily exerted through the Vitamin D receptor (VDR), a quintessential nuclear hormone receptor. VDR also has essential VD-independent functions, the most prominent of which is its requirement in hair follicle development. On the other hand, several lines of evidence indicate the existence of pathways that can circumvent the defective vitamin D signaling. Such pathways would be of high clinical relevance. We are actively pursuing the mechanisms by which VD and VDR regulates biological functions such as muscle mass maintenance, intestinal calcium absorption, and bone homeostasis.

Effect of nutritional transitions in gut health. 

Normal gut development and maturation continues after birth. Gut health is significantly affected by the macronutrient composition of the diet and microbiota. During weaning of mammals from mother’s milk, both the macronutrient composition and the gut-microbiome undergo dramatic changes. However detailed understanding of how the interplay between intestinal tissue, dietary macronutrients, and microbiome during weaning affect gut health is not known. We try to understand the major changes in the gut epithelium after weaning and how that affects intestinal functions such as nutrient absorption and gut barrier maintenance.