Dr. Adesh K Saini

Biography

Expertise/Strength: Molecular Biology Genetic Engineering Genomics Proteomics Biophysics Animal tissue culture Agri-biotech Yeast Genetics

Research Interest

Research Interests Agriculture Biotechnology: Our focus is to genetically modify the plant growth promoting bacteria for improving the agricultural productivity of medicinal plants, fruit crops and cereals in an eco-friendly manner. To this end we have isolated biofertilizer, biocontrol and bioremediant agents from Himalayan region; sequenced their genomes; analyzed them for crop improvement on lab-scale. Utilization of yeast model system for Characterization of functional foods for anti-oxidant properties: Our focus is on characterization of fruit juices for their ability to confer antioxidant properties to the consumers by using yeast genetics, animal tissue culture, and proteomics of redox proteins. Mutational analysis of translation initiation factors: We are trying to understand the mechanism of translation initiation by using yeast genetics, protein structure, and biophysical studies. Prion disease model of yeast. Prion disease represents a group of conditions that affect the nervous system in humans and animals. In people, these conditions impair brain function, causing changes in memory, personality, and behavior; a decline in intellectual function (dementia); and abnormal movements, particularly difficulty with coordinating movements (ataxia). We are utilizing yeast based a prion model to screen phytochemicals isolated from Himalayan region, that can be used to understand and develop novel drug against prion related diseases.