RESEARCH INTEREST
G-Quadruplex DNA interaction and stabilization with small synthetic
organic/inorganic molecules:
Studies on G-quadruplex DNA and its interaction with small molecules that stabilizes the G-quadruplex
structure has reached a great deal of importance in the recent past. Research on identification of G-
quadruplex DNA interacting, stabilizing molecules was shown to render really good potential to function as
an anti-cancer molecules. Our laboratory has shown how G-quadruplex/ i-motifs can function as a "switch"
and control expression of oncoproteins under in vitro/in vivo conditions. Several synthetic/natural molecules
were studied and the outcomes were published in various international journals. Organic/ organometallic
molecules were identified to render a higher level of interaction with G-quadruplex DNA. They can stabilize
the G-quadruplex DNA structure, even at lower concentrations.
Modification of small molecule's architecture and improving its potential to
function as anti-cancer agents:
Molecular architecture and the groups attached to the central molecule has greater influence in inducing
apoptosis among cancer cells. Several modified molecules start exhibiting improved anti-cancer activity
under in vitro and in vivo conditions. We have studied the role of electron donating and electron
withdrawing groups in enhancing the anti-cancer activity of synthetic organic molecules. We found that by
systematically changing 1-2 groups on the central molecule, its anti-cancer activity can be improved.
Recently, our research laboratory has shown that the addition of an electronegative group to the phenyl
group will enhance the potential of phenyl 1,2,3-triazole-thymidine ligand. Likewise, by systematically
altering the side chains on a series of organometallic complexes, we have studied the anticancer action of
several organometallic complexes in cell lines and animal models.
Small molecule's or small synthetic peptide's role in functioning as an anti-
bacterial or anti-fungal agents:
Besides, improving the anti-cancer properties of small, synthetic organic and inorganic molecules, our lab
has the leaning to study, analyse and interpret the function of certain small peptides in reducing the growth
of gram positive and gram negative bacteria. These studies may lead to identify a few new class of anti-
bacterial molecules. We have recently identified that by carefully modifying the N-terminal of certain
category of small synthetic peptides, their anti-bacterial potential can be enhanced. Studies are in progress
to understand the mechanism of action of few selected small peptides in non-pathogenic bacterial system.