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ABOUT DEPARTMENT
The Department of Zoology was established in the year 1947 as a premier centre for teaching and research in animal sciences. The Department was the first one in the country to be recognized as the Centre for Advanced Studies (CAS) in 1963 and continues to enjoy this status by special assistance from the UGC-SAP program. The UGC extended its CAS status in 2005 by providing special assistance for another five years. The department has a well equipped central instrument facility from grants under DST-FIST program, which has recently been upgraded and a number of new instruments have been added. At present, the department has 140 M.Sc., 10 M.Phil & 95 Ph.D. students. The current research and teaching areas in the Department include Animal Physiology, Animal Behaviour, Aquaculture, Cell Signaling, Chromatin and Cancer Biology, Computational Biology, Endocrinology, Entomology, Genomics and Metagenomics, Systematics, Evolution and Biodiversity, Microbiology, Molecular Cell Biology,Radiation Biology, Reproductive Physiology and Toxicology. In the year 2009 semester system was introduced in the department and the student uptake at Master’s level was increased from 60-75. Apart from teaching, the faculty is engaged in active interdisciplinary research. More than 175 papers have been published in last five years. The department practices interdisciplinary research. Faculty members are presently collaborating with leading institutes like IMTECH, IARI, TERI, NEERI, ICGEB, IGIB, NII, and NIHFW. Faculty members have received many prestigious awards and honours. In 2007, two faculty members were elected as Fellow of the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Faculty members are also on the editorial board and/or as adhoc reviewers for many prestigious national and international journals and members of project advisory committees (PAC) of DST and DBT. All faculty members have extramural funding for their research projects and the Department has several international collaborations with Austria (FAO/IAEA), USA (INDO/US), Switzerland (EAWAG- EPFL, UNIL), Mexico (CIBNOR) and Australia (CSIRO). The Department has been holding various workshops, symposia, conferences and other teaching courses to provide a platform for scientific exchanges. The Department organizes workshops for college teachers to make them adapt with current trends. Apart from teaching and research, the Faculty members are making substantial contribution to the University system in various capacities. To further strengthen teaching and research in the Department, an extensive renovation and up-gradation of teaching and research laboratories has been undertaken in the last two years.
A new, well equipped central facility has been established. Well equipped laboratories for conducting practicals for post graduate students have been developed. Lecture theatres have been upgraded and equipped with LCD projectors. The library has been modernized with 30 computer terminals with complete access to more than 2000 odd journals. All efforts are being made to make this department one of the best institute for teaching and research in the country.
Faculty Members
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Bhasin, Prof. Virendra K. |
1410 (EPBX), 27667989, 27667212 Ext. 102 |
virendrabhasin@hotmail.com |
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Chakrabarti, Prof. Rina |
27666496, 27666486, 65581424 |
aquaresearchlab@yahoo.co.in |
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Chaturvedi, Prof. M. M. |
27666051,27667443
Extn. 316 & 317 |
mchaturvedi@Zoology.du.ac.in |
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Kumar, Prof. Vinod |
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drvkumar11@gmail.com |
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Lal, Prof. Rup |
011-27666 254 |
ruplal@gmail.com |
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Muralidhar, Prof. K |
+91-11- 27667443 Extn: 105 |
kambadur@hotmail.com |
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Rai, Prof. Umesh |
24116427, 24113045, 24110876, 27662865 |
rai_u@rediffmail.com
dir_udsc@du.ac.in |
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Sehgal, Prof. Neeta |
27667443 Ext. 135 27667725 Ext. 1325 |
nsehgal@zoology.du.ac.in |
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Seth, Prof. Rakesh K. |
27666564 |
rkseth57@gmail.com |
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Singh, Prof. Ashok Kumar |
011- 27667042 |
singhak.du@gmail.com |
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Aggrawal, Dr. Namita |
011-27667212 |
nagarwal@zoology.du.ac.in |
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Basu- Modak, Dr. S. |
27667212 Ext. 132/ 133 |
sbasumodak@zoology.du.ac.in |
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Katiyar, Dr. Sanjay |
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katiyar.sanjay@gmail.com |
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Mazumdar, Dr. Shibnath |
+91-11-27667212 Ext 203 |
shibnath1@yahoo.co.in |
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Raman, Dr. Rajagopal |
91-11-27662275 |
zoorajagopal@gmail.com |
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Shakarad, Dr. Mallikarjun |
65095734, 27667443 Extn: 217 |
mallik@zoology.du.ac.in |
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Shrivastava, Dr. Anju |
(011) 27667443 ext. 314, 315 |
ashrivastava@zoology.du.ac.in, anjubhu@yahoo.com |
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Singh, Dr. Dileep K. |
27667191 |
dksingh@zoology.du.ac.in |
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Singh, Dr. Rita |
27662177 |
ritas@zoology.du.ac.in |
Courses Offered
Admissions
| Admission eligibility | | M.Sc. Zoology | | Diploma/Degree: Degree | | Course: Post Graduate | | Course Duration: Two years | | Description: intake capacity- 94. | | 50% seats will be filled up on the basis of merit based on marks obtained by the candidates in the respective B.Sc. (Hons.) Courses Examination from University of Delhi (not through Entrance Test). | | EXAMINATION ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS | | B.Sc. (Hons.) Zoology/B.Sc. (H) Biological Science (3 Years Course after 10+2) from Delhi University or any other University whose examination is recognized as equivalent to University of Delhi and fulfils other conditions of eligibility. 50% or above marks in aggregate & 50% or above marks in Zoology. | | OR | | B.Sc.(Genl.)/B.Sc. (Pass)/B.Sc. Life Science (3 Years course after 10+2) from Delhi University or any other University whose examination is recognized as equivalent to Delhi University and fulfill other conditions of eligibility. 60% or above marks in aggregate and 60% or above marks in Zoology. | | Other details | | A candidate must have passed B.Sc. (Genl.) Examination with Chemistry, Botany and Zoology at the qualifying examination. A candidate passing Zoology (Honours) Examination must have Chemistry and Botany as his/her subsidiary/ancillary subject at the last qualifying examination. | | M.Phil | | Diploma/Degree: Degree | | Course: M. Phil | | ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS: | | As per University rules | | Ph.D. | | Diploma/Degree: Degree | | Course: Ph.D. | | ELIGIBILITY CONDITIONS: As per University guidelines for registration of Ph.D |
Time Table
Research/Project Activities
Prof. K. Muralidhar Hormone research laboratory under my group has achieved in the past two decades complete characterization of buffalo pituitary hormones. My laboratory has developed procedures for indigenous production of buffalo hormones like LH, FSH, TSH, GH, and PRL; sensitive homologous immunoassays and heterologous bioassays for these hormones besides characterizing their physico-chemical and immunochemical features. My group is among the first to report that LH and PRL were sulphated and that this contributes to microheterogeneity. We discovered the presence of tyrosine-O-sulphate in sheep and buffalo PRL. Using biophysical techniques, we studied the protein unfolding and folding of buffalo GH. Naturally occurring size isoforms of buffalo prolactin, cathepsin derived peptides from buffalo prolactin and a synthetic peptide based on the internal sequence of buffalo prolactin were discovered to be powerful inhibitors of angiogenesis stimulated by VEGF or bradykinin. Our work led to the development of the most sensitive RIA for HCG, a pregnancy hormone. We also demonstrated the immuno-contraceptive vaccine potential of DS5-hCG beta subunit. In the next phase our group has initiated research to produce recombinant hormones and investigate their biosynthesis. | Prof. Rup Lal I have been teaching & doing research for the past 30 years. My group is working on microbial diversity, microbial genomics and bioremediation of hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH). My primary research interests include microbial diversity at pesticide polluted sites, genetics and biochemistry of HCH degradation and development of HCH bioremediation technology. My group has pioneered the unraveling of the physiology and genetics of HCH degradation by an Indian isolate Sphingobium indicum B90A and provided evidence for stability and horizontal transfer of HCH degrading ‘lin’ genes among different bacteria revealing the dynamics of their expression. We have also attempted bioremediation of HCH contaminated agricultural sites by ‘bioaugmentation’ and ‘biostimulation’ approaches. Currently my group is exploring the potential of ‘enzymatic bioremediation’ by deploying enzymes involved in degradation of HCH.
Apart from the above, with the aid of molecular tools, I, along with my group, am also involved in the taxonomical characterization of novel bacterial species isolated from HCH contaminated dumpsites and agricultural fields with keen interest in strains with a HCH degradation ability.
My group has also been working on genetic manipulation of Amycolatopsis mediterranei, producing rifamycin, an antibiotic used for treatment of tuberculosis and leprosy. I have developed a series of cloning vectors for several species of Amycolatopsis and the technology has been granted US patent (No. 005985560A). My group is involved in genome sequencing of Amycolatopsis mediterranei S699 and Sphingobium indicum B90A by Sanger-pyrosequencing hybrid approach and Solexa sequencing (a new – generation sequencing technology) respectively.
I have more than 100 publications in peer-reviewed journals attracting over 700 ISI citations. I have won several awards and am the recipient of Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship, DBT Overseas Fellowship, ASM Indo-US Professorship. I have also served as a visiting scientist at the University of Cambridge. I am also a Fellow or Life Time Member of several learned Indian academic societies. Currently, I am the Head, Department of Zoology. Apart from this I behold the post of the Editor-in-Chief of the Indian Journal of Microbiology & I am a member of the Review Committee for the ASM-IUSSTF Indo-US Professorship in Microbiology. | | Current Research Projects: | | Project Investigator of “Genotyping and Isolation of Sphingomonads from HCH contaminated Agricultural soils and their application in Bioremediation”, Project sponsored by National Bureau of Agriculturally important microorganisms. (NBAIM) (ICAR) from April 2006 to March 2012. (Project layout Rs. 30.58 lakhs, AMAAS/2006-07/NBAIM/CIR). | | Project investigator of Indo-Australian Collaboration in Biotechnology (IACB) project entitled, “Enabling Technologies for the Enzymatic Bioremediation of Cyclic Organochlorine Residues”, Sponsored by Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India from April 2007 to July 2010. (Project layout Rs. 68.48 lakhs, BT/PR9562/ICD/16/760/2006). | | Project investigator of “Screening for Bio-molecules from Microbial Diversity Collected from Different Ecological Niches”, Sponsored by Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India from October 2007 to November 2010. (Project layout Rs.143.14 lakhs, BT/PR 9712/NDB52/91/2007). | | Project investigator of “Construction of Bacterial Biosensors for Detection of Aromatic Hydrocarbons”, Sponsored by Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India, April 2008 to March 2011.(Project layout Rs. 18.79 lakhs, BT/PR-8479/BCE/08/495/2006). | | Co-Project investigator of “Molecular Analysis of Agrocin Producing Agrobacterium radiobactor for Biological Control of Crown Gall in Stone Fruits”, Sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research, from April 2008 to March 2012. (Project layout Rs.25.496 lakhs, NFBSRA/PCN/4412/AP-18/2007-08). | | Project investigator of Indo-Swiss Collaboration in Biotechnology (ISCB) Phase III: “Environmental Risk and Bioremediation of Hexachlorocyclohexane Isomers”. Sponsored by the ISCB, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Switzerland, from September 2008 – September 2010. (Project layout Rs.19.27 lakhs, BT/IC-2/SWISS/LAL/RAINA/P3/2008-BN). | | “Project investigator of “All India Network Project on Soil Diversity Biofertilizers (XIth Plan)” sponsored by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) from 2007-2012. | | Project co-ordinator of “Understanding Individual & Community Genomes of Bacteria using New Generation Sequencing Technologies” sponsored by University of Delhi under DU/ DST – PURSE Grant from 2009-2012. Project Investigators- Prof. J. P. Khurana, Dr. Paramjit Khurana and Dr. Rajagopal Raman. (Project layout-173 lakhs). | Prof. A. K. Singh My group has been working in the area of insect-plant interaction, more precisely how insects obtain signal from the plant that determines its selection or rejection by the insect. These signals also help the insect to differentiate their host from non-host plants, and play a very important role for their survival and propagation. All green plants emit volatiles from its surface in which there is coded information about the chemistry of plant. These volatiles pervade in the surrounding and are perceived by the insect which has the inherent capacity to decode this information and identify these volatiles as of host or non-host plant. My group has been working to identify the characteristic/ signal of plants which influence the behavior of insect and are ultimately responsible for establishment. The plants in course of evolution have developed characteristics that help them to resist the attack of insect. Our study focuses to find out the characteristics of resistant plant cultivars that help them in resisting this attack of insect pest and thus reduce damage. The information accrued from the study will be helpful in the management of pests in an eco-friendly way. This is very important as heavy dependence on insecticides has been responsible for development of resistance against insecticide and environmental degradation that is manifested as pest resurgence and secondary pest outbreak. The insect pests on which we have been working include Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura, Plutella xylostella, Nezara viridula. These insects are serious pests of many economic crop plants and cause heavy loss of production. Also our work includes the behavioral responsesof parasitoid Cotesia plutellae, to its host insect, Plutella xylostella,which is a serious pest of cruciferous plants. Our approach is to develop methods for the conservation of this parasitoid and their best use for controlling diamond back moth population in an agroecosystem of cruciferous plants. All the information from this study will help in the development of sustainable agriculture vis-à-vis increasing the crop production. | | Current research projects: | | Development of insects as bioreactors for protein synthesis. Collaboration with Dr. Deepak Sehgal, ICGEB, Delhi Department of Biotechnology (2004-07) 34.5 lakhs | | Orientation of Cotesia plutellae to different food sources, their effects on longevity, parasitization and flight activity of adult parasitoid with Department of Science and Technology. | Prof. M. M. Chaturvedi | The major focus of our research is on “Chromatin Dynamics, Epigenetics, Gene Expression, Inflammation and Cancer”.
Chromatin Dynamics & ATP-dependent Remodeling: Approximately two-meter long DNA in eukaryotes is organized in a highly dynamic nucleoprotein complex known as chromatin. It was earlier thought as a simple organizer of DNA in the nucleus, but now has assumed roles that are more important as regulator of gene-expression; and chromatin remodeling has become a primary step for regulation of all the processes related to DNA, such as, replication, transcription, recombination and repair. ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling is one of major ways by which the structure of chromatin is remodeled. My group is involved in the purification and characterization of a novel SWI/SNF family of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeler from chicken liver. This remodeler in an ATP-dependent manner alters the structure of translationally and rotationally phased mononucleosomes. It also induces in ATP-dependent manner the movement of histone octamers in cis and trans on DNA template. Therefore, it shows the properties of both the SWI/SNF and ISWI families. We are characterizing the function of each of the subunits of chicken SWI/SNF complex.
Post-translation Histone modifications, Histone-code & Epigenetics Marks- Core histone consists of a globular domain and an unstructured N- or C-terminus tail. The unstructured tails are frequently the sites for diverse posttranslational modifications (like acetylation, methylation, phosphorylation, ubiquitination, ADP-ribosylation etc). These modifications primarily act as docking sites for binding of further chromatin interacting machineries and occur in an intricate pattern forming the basis of a code called as “histone-code”. Regulated removal of N-terminal tails of histones would constitute an irreversible type of modification. We have identified, purified and characterized a novel H3-specific protease that specifically cleaves N-terminal portion of histone H3, thereby removing epigenetic marks present on it. Recently, we have established a model of liver regeneration (followed by surgical resection of liver, and followed by drug-induced liver-damage) in mouse, and are trying to study epigenetic regulation of the process of liver-regeneration. The method used will involve ChiP-on-CHIP or Chip-Seq. My group is focusing on the epigenetics marks, such as, H3K4Me and H3K9Me, H3K4Ac, H3K27Me, and H4K20Me.
Inflammation and Cancer - Third area of research that my group is pursuing is the linkage between inflammation and cancer, which become a major focus to understand the mechanism of cancer initiation, progression and metastasis. The chronic inflammation is linked with the initiation of cancer. We have established an inflammatory model system in mouse which is known as CLP (cecal ligation and puncture) system, which establishes a polymicrobial inflammatory response. Using this system, we are studying the changes in the oscillatory response of the key inflammatory transcription factor, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB). We are also developing drug-induced liver inflammatory system. Our objective is to map the epigenetic changes associated with chronic inflammatory response. In this area, I have ongoing collaboration with the Department of Experimental Therapeutics, MD Anderson Cancer, Center, University of Texas, Houston, TX, USA. | | Current research projects: | | “Development of in vivo system for studying inflammation: mechanism of oscillatory response of the key regulator, the Nuclear factor kappa B” (2010-11) DST PURSE Project to University of Delhi (Rs. 40 Lakhs). | | “Biochemical and physiological characterization of a novel histone H3-specific protease from chicken/mouse liver” Department of Science & Technology, New Delhi (2004-08) 21.54 lakhs. | Prof. Umesh Rai My research interest is focused on Comparative immuno-endocrinology and reproductive physiology. My group has shown that a single mammalian FSH-like gonadotropin regulates both the testicular functions, namely spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in wall lizards. This substantiates the hypothesis of a single gonadotropin in squamates which is unlike chelonians, crocodilians and other vertebrates where two gonadotropins control different testicular functions. For quite some years, there had been confusion regarding the role of androgen in spermatogenesis: stimulatory, inhibitory and ineffective, in reptiles. It is unraveled by their in vitro study in the wall lizard in which androgen is shown to differentially regulate the spermatogenesis depending upon the activation state of Sertoli cell. Further elaborate investigations were carried out to develop the insights on significance of cell-cell interactions in the testis. Direct evidences were provided by my group on regulation of Leydig cell activities by the Sertoli cells, mast cells and testicular macrophages. The Leydig cell-secreted factor is also shown to affect the nursing activity of Sertoli cells. In the case of ectothermic vertebrates, we explored, for the first time, the endocrine and paracrine regulation of testicular immune responses. The FSH-like gonadotropin is shown to increase the testicular macrophage activities. Leydig cell-secreted androgen differentially controls the immune responses depending on presence or absence of FSH, while proteinaceous factor from Leydig cells unequivocally enhances the cytotoxic activity of macrophages. Also, mast cell secreted histamine which is described crucial in regulation of the testicular immune responses. In recent years, I have extended my research work to fish in which I have shown the immunoregulatory role of hypothalamo-hypophsial-adrenocortical axis, symatho adrenomedullary system, pineal gland and endogenous opioid peptides. | | Current research projects: | | A study on bidirectional communication between Leydig cells and immune cells in the testis of wall lizard, Hemidactylus flaviviridis” from July 2007-December 2010 – Dept. Science & Technology, New Delhi (Rs 23,79,489) | Prof. Rina Chakarbarti Research activities of my group is focused on nutritional physiology of carp larvae. Digestive enzyme profiles of carps are evaluated during ontogenic development. Presently, my lab is involved in the purification and characterization of proteases (trypsin and chymotrypsin) collected from the digestive systems of Indian major carps. We are studying the in vitro digestibility of plant-originated protein by digestive juices of carps using pH-stat method. This study will help in the preparation of plant-protein based artificial diet for carp larvae. We are also engaged in the study of food-mediated immunostimulation of carp larvae. We are incorporating the extract of plant Achyranthes aspera (Family: Amarantheceae) in the diets of various developmental stages of carps and evaluating the immunostimulatory and disease resistance properties of Achyranthes aspera in carps. The culture technique of zooplankton has been standardized using organic manures and the role of zooplankton in larviculture has been evaluated. We have developed the Aquahouse technology, where the temperature can be maintained at desirable level for the culture of fish. We have designed an eco-friendly recirculating system using a combination of biological filter and hydroponic system. This system is efficient in maintaining lower levels of ammonia, nitrite and phosphate in the fish culture units. Maintenance of better water quality results into more than 90% survival and faster growth rate of carp larvae. | | Current research projects: | | Characterization of Digestive Proteases of Indian Major Carps and Their Capacity to Digest Plant Protein, Department of Science and Technology, 2009-2012 (32 lakh) | | Evaluation of Immunostimulatory and Disease Resistance Properties of an Indian Medicinal Plant Achyranthes aspera in Carps. Department of Biotechnology, Delhi (23 lakh). | | Digestive Physiology of Spawn and Fry of Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala under Various Feeding Regimes, Indian Council of Agric. Res (2005-08) 35 lakh | Prof. Neeta Sehgal The Fish Biology Unit is recognized as a major centre of research on fish physiology and allied areas. My group is working on several aspects of reproductive physiology of freshwater fishes using murrel and catfish as models. Our studies have established that estrogens regulate the synthesis of vitellogenin and choriogenin in the liver. To gain a further insight into the hormonal control of the synthesis of these two proteins, they have developed and standardized enzymatic and non-enzymatic techniques for isolation of viable hepatocytes and their short-term culture. These techniques have enabled them to investigate cell metabolism and biosynthetic activities in the liver cells. The techniques have also been employed to study the interaction between estrogens and several non-estrogenic hormones during vitellogenesis.
The study has also been initiated on the effects of xenoestrogens on the hepatic synthesis of vitellogenin and choriogenin in Indian freshwater fishes. We have developed and validated highly specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays for detection of extremely small amounts of vitellogenin and choriogenin in the blood of fishes. These homologous ELISAs can be used as biomarkers for pollutants in the aquatic environment.
Presently, we are collaborating with Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, National Institute of Health and Family Welfare and Institute of Nuclear Medicines & Allied Sciences. Together we have developed several food biosensors such as Biostrips for testing milk pasteurization and albumin, and biostrip and amperometric type of biosensors specifically for detecting lactose and galactose. The same techniques are being used to develop simple dry-reagent strip biosensor for vitellogenin in fish. | | Current research projects: | | Yolk Proteolysis and Oocyte Hydration in the Indian freshwater fish Department of Science and Technology (2007- 2010) Rs 18 lakhs | | Development of Indicators for Anthropogenic, Environmental and Chemical Stress on Urban Ecosystem: A Study of Aquatic and Terrestrial Ecosystems of Yamuna River Catchments from National Capital Region PURSE scheme of University of Delhi. (2010-2013) Rs 2 crores | Prof. Vinod Kumar Regulation of biological clocks at the systems (read organism) level. To understand the neural and endocrine mechanisms by which daily clocks and yearly calendars control temporal organization of circadian and seasonal behaviors and the sequence and duration of the life history stages. My group uses both non-migratory and migratory bird species as our model. The main objective of our themes of research include:
1. Demonstrate that biological clocks temporally organize pre-migratory and migratory behaviors, and timekeepers that organize migration may exhibit different characteristics.
2. Neurobiology of seasonal behaviors. Seasonal changes in the song control system. Developmental changes in the brain (neurogenesis/ synaptogenesis) in response to seasonality and hormone status. Hormonal modulation of brain functions.
3. Endocrinology of seasonal behaviors (with reference to changes in melatonin, thyroid hormones and steroid hormones).
4. Physiology of migration. Identification of novel proteins involved in initiation and termination of seasonal behaviors. Metabolism: glucose uptake studies in response to seasonal changes associated with the migration. Studying mechanism of orientation and magnetoreception in migrants.
5. Identifying the changes in gene expression and protein levels in relation to changes in the migratory status, and to determine whether these changes allow normally diurnal birds to become nocturnally active during migration. Also understanding how migrants function at a high performance level despite having very little sleep. | | Current research projects: | | 1. Avian circadian seasonal systems: from behaviour to molecules – funded under IRHPA scheme by the Department of Science and Technology, India. (joint collaboration with Dr. Sangeeta Rani, Lucknow University) 2007-2012 ( Rs. 3.09 Crores) | | Immunohistochemical study of seasonal system in birds - funded by the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, India. 2007-2010 (Rs 15 Lacs) | Dr. D. K. Singh My research group is working on pesticide residue analysis and soil microbial ecology. We are isolating and identifying unexplored free living nitrogen fixing bacteria from Himanchal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan and Delhi to understand the microbial biodiversity of these regions and their importance in soil health. We have isolated nif H gene from unculturable bacteria and submitted a sequence to gene bank. We have found that this is a new species of nitrogen metabolizing bacteria and have a role in nitrogen fixation. We are also working on endosulfan degradation by soil bacteria. We have isolated bacterial strain which will degrade even endosulfan sulphate. We have isolated microbes Bordetella sp. B9, Pseudomonas aeruginosa S9 and Pseudomonas aeruginosa S2, capable of degrading the endosulfan in very short time period. | | Current research projects: | | Microbial degradation of Endosulfan. Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi (2005- 2009, Rs.27 Lakhs. | | A study on 16SrDNA, enzymes, microbes and animal as model system for their possible usage as bioindicator and biomarkers of soil health Department of Science & Technology ( 2007-2010), Rs. 26 Lakhs. | Dr. Rita Singh My group has been working on various molecular mechanisms underlying the abnormal follicular growth in the ovary in women with polycystic ovary syndrome and Cancer. Major area has been the Molecular determinants of Follicular growth arrest in Human Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, under which they are trying to identify the defects in gene expression in granulosa cells and defects in follicular fluid contents. The differential gene expression in granulosa cells in PCOS women with and without Insulin resistance has been studied by Microarray analysis and they have identified PCOS susceptibility gene sets by developing signaling and protein-protein interaction networks by softwares like pathway studio and Ingenuity pathways. We have also been looking at the signaling mechanism involved in the regulation of Insulin action in rat granulosa cells by FSH and LH in culture. We have studied the regulation of insulin receptor and its signaling by FSH and LH in rat and human granulosa cells. Role of Src family tyrosine kinases in ovarian follicular growth is also been looked at in her lab. Further, we are also undertaking research on comparative proteomics of reproductive tissue cancers in human. Analysis of plasma proteins from human cancer patients is done for finding cancer-specific markers for diagnosis and for therapeutic intervention. | | Current research projects: | | “Differential protein profiling of plasma from patients with tissue specific Cancer” (DBT), Medical Biotechnology Human Genome and Genetics (2010-2013), 3 Years, 43.29 Lakhs. | | “Cross-Talk between Insulin receptor and Gonadotropins in Rat Granulosa Cells” DBT, Animal Biotechnology, (2007- 2010), 3 years, 44.5 lakhs. | | “Recombinant Pituitary prolactin of Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalus. UGC, Animal Sciences, (2007-2010), 3 years, 11.95 lakhs. | | "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Molecular Determinants of Abnormal Follicular Growth Reflected in Granulosa Cell Gene Expression Profiles". INDO-US CRHR Program DBT, (2005-2009), 4 Years, 57 Lakhs. | Dr. Sharmila Basu-Modak My main research area is Molecular genetics of the heme degrading enzyme Heme oxygenase-1 (Hmox1). This enzyme is the inducible isoform of the two heme oxygenases which are the rate limiting enzymes in heme degradation pathway. The basic function of these enzymes is to degrade heme to biliverdin IXa, carbon monoxide and ferrous iron. However several studies have shown that Hmox1 is a mediator of protective response against cell and tissue injury in vitro and in vivo. It is also considered as a cellular marker of oxidative stress. The expression of this gene is elevated in different types of human and rodent cancers and several pathological conditions involving generation of reactive oxygen species. Given the diverse conditions in which this gene is induced, it is not surprising that the Hmox1 knockout mouse shows extensive prenatal lethality.
The laboratory is addressing the mechanism of prenatal lethality observed in the Hmox1 knockout mice. Since this targeted mutation in the mouse shows incomplete penetrance for embryonic lethality (7-16 % Hmox1 null mice survive to adulthood) a compensation mechanism probably exists. My group is also trying to determine whether Hmox2 or other genes compensate of the deficiency of Hmox1 in the null mouse. | | Current research projects: | | “Heme oxygenase-1 in rodent embryogenesis”, DST, India; December 2006 to December 2010 (3 years + 1 year extension); Rs 23,97,240.-. | | “Heme oxygenases in mouse development”, Annual funding from the Scheme to strengthen R&D Doctoral Research Programme from University of Delhi; 2009-2010; Rs 2.5 lakhs. | | “Heme oxygenases in mouse development: A comparative study in the heme oxygenase 1 knockout mouse”; Annual funding from the Scheme to strengthen R&D Doctoral Research Programme from University of Delhi; 2007-2008; Rs 2.5 lakhs. | Dr. Anju Shrivastava My laboratory has three major research interests. First of the major areas of our interest is to understand the biology of macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) under stress conditions, the regulatory mechanisms in signal transduction during interaction of macrophages/DC cells with other cells such as tumor cells or cells of the immune system. Also efforts are to understand the mechanism of decision making between activation/differentiation, survival/apoptosis, and immunity/tolerance. Monocyte-macrophages are one of the important components of reticuloendothelial system actively involved in tumor regression. An issue which is equally important and has not been sufficiently addressed is whether the release of bioactive products by macrophages could be influenced by macrophage:tumor cell interaction. Among the limited number of observations made in this field, evidences indicate that the tumor cells do exert influence on macrophage activation for tumor cytotoxicity. This effect can be mediated either through direct cell-cell contact or by secretion of soluble products. A rather inconsistent pattern emerges from the studies on the influence of tumor cells for release of bioactive products by monocyte –macrophage lineage and they work to understand it.
The second research area is to assess the regulation of signaling mechanism involved in tumorigenesis and tumor progression. Normally, cells utilize a cascade of intracellular molecules that interact with one another to relay outside signals to the nucleus. Such cascades are called signaling pathways. Many intracellular signaling molecules control the decision of cells to grow and divide or die by apoptosis. Our effort is to understand how MAP kinases decide to regulate cell proliferation versus cell death phenomenon such as apoptosis.
The third research area is in the field of nanomedicine. We, in collaboration of Department of Chemistry are trying to develop nanoparticles as novel carrier and adjuvant for DNA Vaccine and for effective enzyme-prodrug therapy wherein the benign prodrug can be converted in functional drug at the targeted site wherever the nanoparticle encapsulated enzyme are deployed. | | Current research projects: | | 1. “Identification and Characterization of c-Jun N-terminal Kinase (JNK)-interacting Proteins in Breast Cancer”, UGC, India. (Ref. No. F31-247/2005(SR).Three years since April 2006 to March 2009. | | 2. “Regulation of c-Jun N-Terminal Kinase Signaling in Breast Cancer Progression” DST, India (Ref. No. SR/SO/BB-46/2004). Rs. 24 lakh; Three years+ one year extention April2006-March2010. | | “Regulation of Signaling Mechanism in Macrophages and Tumor Cells” - partial research fund under Scheme to Strengthen R&D Doctoral Research Programs at University of Delhi, for the year 2007-2008; Rs. 2.5 lakhs. | | “Differential Regulation of JNK signaling in macrophages under normal and during stress condition (Infection/or Interaction with tumor cells)”- partial research fund under Scheme to Strengthen R&D Doctoral Research Programs at University of Delhi, for the year 2008-2009; Rs.2.5 lakhs. | | “Effect of melatonin on macrophage functions in normal versus tumor environment”.-Partial research fund under Scheme to Strengthen R&D Doctoral Research Programs at University of Delhi, for the year 2009-2010; Rs.2.5 lakhs.“Cloning expression and Characterization of the selected Lipase genes (Lip D & Lip Q) of Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37 Rv and its possible role in virulence” (Ref. No. BT/PR-11349/MED/30/136/2008) Rs. 23 lakhs for three years from February 2010 | | “Evaluation of Potential Applications of Inorganic nanoparticles in Nanomedicine” {Ref. No. DU/DST-PURSE GRANT (Dean®/2009/868; dated December 11, 2009)} Rs. 39.5 lakhsfor three years from January 2010 | Dr. Namita Agarwal The research in “Fly lab” at University of Delhi mainly focuses on understanding the mechanism and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, mainly Huntington’s disease using transgenic Drosophila as a model system. Drosophila melanogaster, which has recently been called “the little person with the wings” because comparative genome analysis reveals that at least 50% of fly genes have similar genes in human. In addition to the contribution of fly model in several diseases like cancer etc, the fly is also an excellent choice for modeling neurodegenerative disease because it contains a fully functional nervous system with an architecture that separates specialized functions such as vision, olfaction, learning and memory in a manner not unlike that of mammalian nervous systems
The Huntington’s disease protein, Huntingtin (Htt), is subject to various posttranslational modifications, including ubiquitination, which normally targets proteins for degradation, and sumoylation. Sumoylation is a post-translational modification system that is biochemically similar to, but functionally distinct from ubiquitination. They have found that a pathogenic fragment of Huntingtin (Httex1p) can be modified either by SUMO-1 or by ubiquitin on identical lysines In a Drosophila model of Huntington disease (HD), sumoylation exacerbates while ubiquitination relieves neurodegeneration. Further, mutations that prevent both sumoylation and ubiquitination dramatically reduce pathology, indicating that the contribution of sumoylation extends beyond simply preventing ubiquitination.
We are trying to address following key questions on role of Sumoylation in HD pathogenesis: (i) Determine the relative contribution of the 3 lysines of Htt that are capable of being SUMO modified to pathogenesis by testing the effect of different SUMO blocked transgene combinations.
(ii) Effect of modification of individual lysine or combination of lysines on accumulation/clearance and sub cellular distribution of Htt protein
(iii)Evaluate the effect of relavant lysine (after getting results from Aim1) on other post-translational modification like phosphorylation. | Dr. Shibnath Mazumdar In my laboratory we are trying to understand the pathogenicity of A. hydrophila using both fish and mouse model. We have been able to identify the role of virulence plasmid in the pathogenicity and suggested mechanisms by which the bacterium induces host cell apoptosis. We are also working on the mechanisms of arsenic toxicity. My group has reported how arsenic induces apoptosis and immunosuppression and is currently engaged in studying the signal transduction pathways induced by arsenic with aim of using this information to induce apoptosis of cancer cell, especially of chemo-resistant variety. | Dr. Mallikarjun Shakarad Population genetics theory is based on mutation, selection and drift-the three forces of evolution. One approach to understanding the micro-evolutionary processes has been through the study of life-history traits. Since most life-history traits are complex and multigenic, their study has largely been the realm of quantitative genetics- that consists of a set of approaches that establish how certain statistical measures of genetic variation relate to phenotypic variation. However, the quantitative genetics approach is limited by (i) incomplete understanding of how genetic networks lead to phenotypes, and (ii) incomplete description of the genotypic state of individuals for which a phenotype has been measured. It is necessary to assess the genotypic constitution of individuals and populations of organisms by gathering information on molecular polymorphism and divergence. Polymorphisms associated with quantitative traits will need to be shown to affect gene function and the phenotype being measured. Evolutionary hypotheses will have to be tested using mutants and transgenic animals.
The study of life-history traits has shown the existence of negative genetic correlations (tradeoffs) between various traits. By subjecting Drosophila melanogaster to simultaneous selection on two traits that are shown to be negatively genetically correlated I have been able to select for increased trait value of both the traits. Thus, the polymorphisms associated with the two quantitative traits seem to be fully expressed. By using the functional genomics methods-particularly microarray it might be possible to assess the genotypic constitution of individuals and populations of organisms and help in filling the long-standing 'black-boxes' in evolutionary theory. | | Current research projects: | | Cost of selection response to simultaneous selection on two divergent life-history traits in Drosophila melanogaster. Council of Scientific & Industrial Research, Government of India (2008-11) Rs. 20 lakhs | | Evolution of life-history traits in Drosophila melanogaster under multiple divergent selection pressures. Council of Scientific & Induatrial Research, Government of India (2005-08) Rs. 17 lakhs | | Division of labour in termites: How is it achieved? Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. Rs. 17.5 lakhs | | A model lower termite to understand division of labour amongst workers (Co. PI with Crossland, M. W. J., & Traniello, J. F. A.), Research Grant Council of Hong Kong. Rs. 50 lakhs | Dr. Rajagopal Raman My group is trying to use insects as a model to understand the role of gut microbial community in their hosts and they concentrate on two insects: Helicoverpa armigera and Bemisia tabaci. Lepidoptera, one of the largest insect orders with more than 1.5 lakh species, are exclusively phytophagus (feed on plants), and are supposed to harbor gut associated microbes aiding in biomass digestion, but its gut microbial diversity is practically unknown. Helicoverpa armigera is the most important polyphagus crop pest in the developing world and accounts for 50% of the cost incurred in insect pest management. Hemipteran insects like the whitefly Bemisia tabaci have a obligate symbiosis with bacteria for meeting their essential amino acids while other facultative bacterial symbionts confer high functional advantage including parasitoid resistance and thermal tolerance. Besides, B. tabaci is the most important virus vector of agricultural crops.
Efforts in the lab are directed towards understanding the gut microbial structure and the functional role played by these microbes in the insect’s growth and development. They believe that understanding the microbial diversity in insect guts and their critical roles in insect growth and development would offer crucial information for designing future pest management strategies. | | Current Research projects: | | ‘Studies on the Ecology and Taxonomyof white fly Bemisia tabaci in India, its symbiosis with various obligate and facultative bacterial symbionts. ’ World Bank- NAIP (ICAR). 3 years. Rs. 37.1 lakhs. | | Understanding Individual & Community Genomes of Bacteria using New Generation Sequencing Technologies” sponsored by University of Delhi under DU/ DST – PURSE Grant from 2009-2012. Project co-ordinator- Prof. Rup Lal; Project Investigators- Prof. J. P. Khurana, Dr. Paramjit Khurana and Dr. Rajagopal Raman. (Project layout-173 lakhs). | Dr. Sanjay Katiyar Cancer is consequence of a cascade of genetics events gone haywire due to external/ internal stimuli that had potentially transformed the normal cells into cancerous, finally invoking their uncontrolled proliferation. Over the last one decade substantial progress was made in cancer biology resulting in their better- management of some, -cure for others and -insight in their biology. Cancer is a multi-step process therefore the current approaches are directed towards its control at initial stages and well as suppressing its growth in advanced stages. A spectrum of genetic changes that occur during oncogenic transformation of normal cells to cancers cells require intensive efforts to search the events that had finally decided the fate of the normal cells to turn into cancer cells. Understanding these changes is therefore is pivotal in our fight against various cancers, and for providing novel target to pharmacologists for new drugs design.
Most of the advanced research and drug trials were conducted in developed countries but to remain economically viable and scientifically competent they feel that there is an urgent need to conduct high-quality, truly-translation research on various cancers in India in order for us to remain scientifically competent with others.
We therefore plan to engage in translation research that covers the following on three essential aspects of cancers development and control. They are: (1) Cancer Epidemiology and Etiological Agents that result in various cancers. (2) Signal Transduction and study of carcinogenic events that that lead to development of final cancer phenotype and (3) Cancer Prevention and Treatment by discovery of Novel Drug Targets and Gene Targets for Gene Therapy. | Prof. R.K. Seth An eco-friendly philosophy of intercepting pest reproduction rather than instant killing for pest management is being promoted. In view of the recent environmental problems being envisaged due to extensive use /misuse of insecticides, a novel eco-friendly radio-genetic control method (‘F-1 or Inherited Sterility’ – that is a modified Sterile Insect technique- SIT), has been developed for management of tropical pest, Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera). The bioefficacy, basis and potential of F-1 sterility (induced by using substerilizing γ -doses to male parent), were evaluated that lead to enhanced inherited sterility, with bonus effect of skewed sex ratio towards male and better competitiveness (I- IAEA project). Simultaneously induction of inherited sterility was also demonstrated in another lepidopteran insect, Manduca sexta (Sphingidae). Further, a strategy is being established for using biorational pesticides (MH-agonists, Neem) having sterilizing potential. An in-depth study was conducted on insect Male Reproduction, for optimizing radio-genetic control tactic (EC project). New biorational approaches are devised using Nuclear techniques with biocontrol agents (EPNs and parasitoids) (II-IAEA project), and biopesticides in conjunction with ‘F-1 sterility’. Studies are in progress to understand the factors causing protection of cellular DNA of intrinsically high radio-resistant Lepidopteran cells (Sf9) from radiation-induced damage (DRDO projects). ‘Radiation hormesis’(low dose stimulatory effects) is being studied in enhancing the efficacy of biological and parabiological control tactics. With an International recognition in the field of Sterile Insect Technique and F1 Sterility tactic, and expertise in basic Insect Reproduction, the nuclear studies are in progress to extend the use of this nuclear technology for its employment to manage other noxious pests (mealy bug species, stored grain pests, malarial and filarial vectors) related to agriculture and public health (III, IV IAEA Projects). | | Current research projects: | | 1. Evaluation of various bio-characteristics of radio-sterilized lepidopteran pest, Spodoptera litura and its progeny to establish the quality traits for a critical appraisal of ‘F1 sterility technique’ for pest suppression (IAEA Contract No. 15557/R0) Intern. Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vienna (2009-2014) ~ € 35,000. | | 2. Validation of F1 Sterility Technique (a modified SIT- i.e., Sterile Insect Technique) for the management of Spodoptera litura (Fabr.) in cotton ecosystem [Under NISPM (Bt Cotton)-TMC-MM-II] Min. of Agric.-DOCD Project (2009-2010 Renewable, yearly basis) Rs.10 lakhs/yr. | | 3. Development of Generic Irradiation Doses for Phytosanitary Treatment of MealyBug Spp. Infesting Agricultural Commodities’(IAEA Contract No. 15852/RB) Intern. Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Vienna (2009-2014) ~ € 40,000. |
Post Doctoral students/Research Associates/Teaching Assistants
| Post Doctoral Students: NIL | | Research Associates: NIL | | Teaching Assistants: SEVEN (07) | | Sudhir Verma | sv_du@yahoo.co.in | | Aeshna Nigam | nigamaeshna@rediffmail.com | | Nidhi Garg | nidhigarg.zoology@yahoo.com | | Shailly Anand | shailly.anand@gmail.com | | Jaya Malhotra | jayamalhotra1508@gmail.com | | Divya Bajaj | divyabajaj05@gmail.com | | Tenzin Nyibum | tnyibum@hotmail.com |
Student Strength
| Courses | No of Students | | Ph.D | 95 | | M.Phil | 10 | | Masters: | | M.Sc. (Previous) | 94 | | M.Sc. (Final) | 71 |
Facilities/Major lab Equipments along with supervisory staff
| Instrument available for Centre facility/ Major laboratory instruments: | | DNA Sequencer | | High speed Centrifuge RC-6 | | Ultra Centrifuge WX 90 | | High speed cold Centrifuge (10,000 RPM) | | Fraction Collector (2) | | UV-1800 Spectrophotometer | | Deep Freezer (-80˚C) (2) | | Deep Freezer (-20˚C) | | Fermentor | | Lyophilizer | | Real-time PCR | | FPLC Protein Purification System | | Motic Digital Microscope | | Nikon Microscope-CDS | | Nikon Microscope- ECLIPSE,TS 100,Type-120 (Inverted) | | Nikon Microscope-SMZ 800, Stereo Zoom | | Scintillation counter | | Water Bath | | Fluorimeter | | Transilluminator ‘UVP’ | | Micro Balance | | Spinwin | | Cyclometer | | Teaching laboratory equipments: | | Nanodrop | | Gel Documentation System | | Stackable incubator | | Horizontal Autoclave | | PCR Machine | | Millipore Water Filter | | Agilent –Bioanalyser | | Hybridization Oven | | Microcentrifuge | | Micropipettes, (2-20), (20-200), (100-1000) | | Central Instrumentation Facility (C.I.F.) staff | | Mr. Baldev Singh Ghawana- Technical Assistant | | Mr. Dinesh Kumar Rishi- Technical Assistant | | Mr. Sahil Malhotra- Lab Attendant | | Library facilities: The Departmental Library now has a section dedicated to computer network facilities with 24 terminals. Each terminal has internet connection made available to the post graduate and research students. |
Recent and Future Events
| International conference on ‘Recent Trends in Developing Bioremediation Strategies for Hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH) and other Chlorinated Contaminants’ organized by Department of Zoology and funded by Indo-Swiss Collaboration for Biotechnology |
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