Teaching: PhD Neuroscience Research Interest: Focus to study on the cell signaling pathways role in neuro-oncogenesis and neurodegenerative diseases. 

 Brief of Research: 1. Determine the novel transcription factors Pax6 and Nkx2.2 interaction and regulation by sonic hedgehog-Gli1(Shh) signaling pathway in brain tumours development Glioblastoma and medulloblastoma are the major brain tumours and contribute significantly to the high mortality rate throughout the world (de bont et al., 2008). New hypothesis suggests small subset of cells within the cancerous mass with the capability to regenerate the tumor persists ever after traditional therapies including surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy (Singh et al., 2004). These small subsets of cells behave like stem cells and are hypothesized to be tumor stem cells (TSCs) with renewal capacity (Singh et al., 2004). Cell signaling pathways Shh, Notch and Wnt regulate stem cell renewal (Taipale and Beachy, 2001). Among these pathways, Shh is thought to be the major contributor to brain tumour development, especially medulloblastoma (Goodrich et al.,1997). Therefore our research goal is to explore new insights into this pathway's roles in glioblastoma and medulloblastoma development. Shh signaling begins with the binding of Shh protein to its receptor Patched (Stone et al., 1996) and the relief of inhibition of another transmembrane receptor Smoothened (Smo) (Stone et al., 1996). Smo signaling leads to the activation of Gli transcription factors, which consequently translocate into the nucleus and binds to the promoter of many target genes including Ptch1 and Cyclins D (Yoon et al., 2002;). However, our recent studies indicate that in addition to above mentioned downstream target genes there are two putative downstream genes such as Pax6 and Nkx2.2 (Shahi et al., 2010). 2. Explore the potential role of Wnt and Shh signaling pathways in depression Depression is one of the common mental disorders in the current scenario. Unfortunately, long time depression further motivates to suicide. Neurotrophic factors are playing very significant role not only in neuronal cell growth, differentiation, and repair but also in depression. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is the most abundant in the central nervous system and also promote neurogenesis in the hippocampus and leads to significant contribution in mood regulation. Interestingly, stress-induced depression down-regulates BDNF expression and this further suppresses neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Cell signaling pathways Wnt and Shh have significant contribution to neurogenesis. Therefore these two pathways have a potential role to regulate BDNF and depression.