OUR MAIN RESEARCH QUESTIONS

All the research is funded by the Ministry of Higher Education (FRGS), Universiti Sains Malaysia, and the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB).

Our research have been/ currently funded by:

Universiti Sains Malaysia

Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia

International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Elucidating the involvement of Rho-family small G proteins as nodal regulators in Primary Immunodeficiency (PID) malignancies

It is crucial for understanding how these proteins contribute to disease progression especially among immune-defect patients. These small G proteins, particularly within the Rho family, play central roles in cell signaling, cytoskeletal dynamics, and immune regulation, making them key targets for investigating the link between PID and cancer development.

Identifying the GTP/GDP loading profile of mutated Rho-family small G proteins in Primary Immunodeficiency (PID) malignancies

It is essential to understand their role in disease mechanisms. These mutations can affect the balance between the active (GTP-bound) and inactive (GDP-bound) states of the proteins, influencing how they contribute to cancer progression and immune system dysfunction in PID patients.

Determining the most affected signaling pathways in Primary Immunodeficiency (PID) malignancies for therapeutic intervention.

By pinpointing which pathways are most disrupted—such as those related to small GTPases and their roles in immune cell regulation, proliferation, and cancer progression—researchers can develop more effective treatments that address both the immune defects and tumor growth in PID patients.

Identifying potential therapeutic interventions for PID malignancies

It can involve exploring natural resources, such as plant-derived compounds, or peptide inhibitors. Natural resources offer a wealth of bioactive molecules, like flavonoids and alkaloids, that could modulate signaling pathways affected by small GTPase mutations. These compounds can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and restore immune function, making them promising candidates for treatment.

Similarly, peptide inhibitors specifically designed to target the dysfunctional signaling in Rho-family small GTPases can block their activity, preventing the uncontrolled cell growth and immune suppression associated with PID malignancies.

Designing an effector-based biosensor to determine the GTP/GDP loading profile of Rho-family small G proteins in cancer

An effector-based biosensor for measuring the GTP/GDP loading profile of Rho-family small G proteins offers significant benefits. It allows for precise monitoring of these proteins' activation states, providing valuable insights into their roles in cancer progression. This technology can help identify key signaling changes in cancer cells, leading to better understanding of disease mechanisms and potential new targets for therapeutic intervention.

OTHER RESEARCH

Investigating the safety profile of microbial fuel cells (MFCs)

It is crucial for ensuring they operate safely and effectively. By understanding potential risks, we can prevent accidents and protect both human health and the environment. Ensuring that the microorganisms and by-products used in MFCs are safe helps avoid health hazards and environmental contamination.

The involvement of Rho-family small G protein in regulating Antimicrobial resistance- related signalling and biomarker

AMR (Antimicrobial Resistance) biomarkers help detect bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotics. Small G proteins, which regulate immune cell functions, can influence how well the immune system responds to these infections.

When small G proteins are not functioning properly, it can weaken the immune response, making it easier for resistant bacteria to survive and spread. Understanding how these proteins affect AMR can help develop better treatments and strategies to fight resistant infections.

Identifying serum replacements using natural resources for cultivated meat production

Traditional animal-derived serums used in cell culture raise ethical and sustainability concerns, as they involve animal welfare issues and are not always environmentally friendly. By finding natural, plant-based or synthetic alternatives, we can make the production process more sustainable, ethical, and cost-effective.

Interested to join our team? Please email Dr. Ana Masara😀