
Research
Research overview-
Our lab is interested in studying host-interactions of emerging human RNA viruses, especially Influenza, Flaviviruses (Zika, Dengue) and Corona viruses. We are exploring broad themes of virus-host interactions such as viral evasion/antagonism of innate immunity and co-option of cellular machinery, which can be targeted to develop broad spectrum antivirals. For this we use Omics approaches (genomewide CRISPR screens, protein-protein interactome and Virus-Host Big Data analysis) in combination with conventional virology, reverse genetics, small animal models and molecular-cell biology methods. We are also working towards development of novel influenza vaccines which provide broad and long term protection.
Molecular basis of Influenza A virus strains specific virulence and pathogenesis
Influenza A viruses manifest a wide range of virulence in strains specific manner. We are trying the understand the molecular basis of these differences through genome wide CRISPR screens, big data analysis and conventional virology.
Development of novel influenza vaccines for broad spectrum and long-lasting protection
Influenza Vaccines, although available, need to be updated frequently as the virus continues to drift and escape immunity. We are trying to combine conserved humoral, cellular, and innate immune response in vaccine formulation to achieve broad spectrum and long-lasting immunity.
Studies on novel broad-spectrum mechanisms of antiviral innate immunity
Cellular antiviral innate immunity hinges on Interferon, however there are non-canonical pathways which can counter viruses through IFN independent mechanisms. We are studying these mechanisms in detail to identify and characterize broad spectrum antiviral factors..
Studies on virus-host interactions of Flaviviruses
Through use of CRISPR and conventional virology, we are exploring Arbovius-host interactions; specially focused on Dengue, Zika and Chikungunya interactions with Aedes mosquito and human host.
Group Member

Mansi Sharma
Graduate Students
Year of Joining: 2018
B. Tech (Biotechnology)-USBT, GGSIPU New Delhi
Email: mansisharma@iisc.ac.in

Oyahida Khatun
Graduate Students
Year of Joining: 2018
B.Sc. (Life Sciences)-Presidency University, Kolkata
Email: oyahidak@iisc.ac.in

Aditi Kanojia
Integrated PhD Student
Year of Joining: 2019
B.Sc. (Hons) in Biomedical Sceinces from Bhaskaracharya College of applied Sciences, University of Delhi
Email: aditikanojia15@gmail.com

Shachee Swaraj
Graduate Students
Year of Joining: 2019
PhD Student-IISc Bengaluru
Email: shachees@iisc.ac.in

Rajesh Yadav
Graduate Students
Year of Joining: 2020
M.Sc. (Biotechnology)-IIT Bombay
Email: rajeshyadav@iisc.ac.in

Sumandeep Kaur
Graduate Students
PhD Student (PMRF Fellow)
Email : sumandeepk@iisc.ac.in

Rishad Siraz
Graduate Students
Year of Joining: 2021
PhD Student-IISc Bengaluru
Email:rishadshiraz@iisc.ac.in

Mannat Kaur Boonga
Graduate Students
Year of Joining: 2023
MSc. Life Sciences-IISc Bengaluru
Email: mannatboonga@iisc.ac.in

Rohan Narayan
Postdoctoral Fellow
Year of Joining: 2019
PhD – Cardiff University
Email: rohannarayan@iisc.ac.in

Santhosh K.N
Postdoctoral Fellow
Year of Joining:2021
PhD – Kuvempu University
Email: santhoshn@iisc.ac.in

Christy Margrat
veterinary pathologist
Year of Joining: 2021
Mvsc –
Email: christymargratjoy@gmail.com

Aishwarya M.E
Administrative Assistant
Year of Joining: 2019
BCA-Mangalore University
Email: aishwaryam@iisc.ac.in

Sudarshan Krupa
Lab attender
Year of Joining: 2021

Shashank Tripathi
Assistant Professor
Wellcome Trust India Alliance Intermediate Fellow
Microbiology & Cell Biology Department,
Centre for Infectious Disease Research,
Indian Institute of Science,
CV Raman Avenue, Bangalore-560012, India
Phone: +91 8022932884
mail: shashankt@iisc.ac.in