Faculty: Prof. Mohit Kumar Jolly (BE) and Prof. Nikhil R Gandasi (DBG)
This PhD project will investigate the molecular mechanisms by which Indian spices, such as turmeric and fenugreek, modulate Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) pathways using a network pharmacology approach. By integrating in silico compound-target mapping with in vitro validation in insulin-resistant cells, the study aims to uncover synergistic, multi-target mechanisms and prioritise bioactive compounds for T2DM management. The project will employ a network pharmacology framework to construct in silico annotated compound-targetdisease interaction maps connecting spice-derived phytochemicals to T2DM-associated molecular pathways. The identified regulatory hubs will be investigated in insulin-resistant cellular models.
Mohit Kumar Jolly will guide the student in computational systems biology, focusing on creating interaction maps that connect spice-derived chemicals to diabetic pathways to identify regulatory molecular switches. This in silico strategy leverages mathematical modelling to predict which compounds can effectively combat Type 2 Diabetes.
Nikhil Gandasi will lead the in vitro experimental validation, mentoring the student in advanced imaging to observe how prioritised spice compounds affect insulin-producing cells. The training will focus on testing these compounds in insulin-resistant cellular models to confirm the computational predictions of improved cell function.