Research Interests
Research Interests
We are studying the molecular basis of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and searching for new drug targets against AMR. We are investigating the action mechanisms of an essential bacterial GTPase protein, CgtA (Obg), which could serve as a new drug target against AMR in various bacteria. For this, we are applying bacterial genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, structural biology, and various computational tools. We also study stress response and biofilm formation in bacteria. Furthermore, we are investigating the action mechanisms of several novel proteins recently identified in our laboratory and are also working to develop anti-bacterial vaccines through collaborations. Vibrio, Mycobacteria, and Pseudomonas are some of our model organisms.
On the other hand, we are conducting structure-function studies (cryo-EM) on certain plant viruses that cause significant economic losses in India and globally. We are also conducting cryo-EM studies on some other molecular complexes.
Some of the research highlights of PPD Lab
cryo-EM structure of a plant virus and the detailed view of a small portion of the atomic model generated from it for its coat protein (unpublished work)
Biochemical analysis of the GTPase activity of wild-type CgtAvc vs. mutant CgtAvc in Vibrio cholerae