Research & Development

Research & Development

Research & Development

The Infectious Disease Research Laboratory of Nireekshana focuses primarily include TB/HIV co-infection, neuropathy, hypertension, and cardiac involvement in HIV/AIDS & leprosy, as well as simple field-level early diagnostic test methods for leprosy. Nireekshana is currently conducting three projects funded by the American Leprosy Mission. Patients are diagnosed and treated with advanced equipment to receive early medical management.
“The formative years of my career started with Dr. Lavanya Suneetha and Nireekshsna. I still remember, when Dr. Lavanya told me that research could also be done with little things we have. Every scientific discussion or conversations in general I had with Dr. Sujai had a profound effect on me.

Nireekshana not only laid a path for my professional career but also had an influence on my personal life too. I learnt a great deal about how precious human life is and how to treat people with respect and compassion. At this age and phase of my life when I recollect my time at Nireekshana, I consider myself fortunate enough to have had an opportunity to be associated with Nireekshana ACET ” Aparna Sakyam PhD.
The Research Team Consists of
Dr. Sujai Suneetha
Dr. Govardhini
Dr. Suman Jain
Dr. Benjamen
Dr. Tabitha Paul
Dr. Lavanya Suneetha
Prasanna Marsakatla 
With the technical support from Vasu Kumar, Rajyalaxmi, J.Pappa

Dr. Sundeep Chaitanya Vedithi

Holding a doctoral degree in Molecular Biology and Immunology with a specialization in leprosy from a renowned leprosy institution in India, I have honed my expertise through laboratory-based research experiences in genomics, transcriptomics, immune biomarkers, and computational biology. Currently steering multicentric scientific research projects at the University of Cambridge, my focus is on drug discovery and the development of advanced diagnostic tools for leprosy and other skin-neglected tropical diseases. Fuelled by a deep-seated passion for bridging the gap between laboratory research findings and practical applications, I spearhead initiatives that underscore translational research and innovation. These endeavors aim not only to alleviate the global burden of leprosy but to work towards its eradication, extending further to address other neglected tropical diseases affecting the skin.

Based on the research publications listed, key areas represent:

Whitepapers

1. Sykam A, Gutlapalli VR, Tenali SP, Meena AK , Chandran P, Suneetha S, Suneetha LM.
Anticeramide antibody and butyrylcholinesterase in peripheral neuropathies.
Journal of clinical neuroscience 2017 (Accepted for publication).
Can be accessed on Science Direct here
2. Gutlapalli VR, Sykam A, Tenali SP, Suneetha S, Suneetha LM.
High levels of plasma interferon gamma and +874T/A gene polymorphism is associated with HIV-TB co-infection.
Hum Immunol. 2016 Dec;77(12):1264-1270. doi:10.1016/j.humimm.2016.08.001. Epub 2016 Aug 10. PubMed PMID: 27521485.
Can be accessed on Science Direct here

Focus on Leprosy Research

The majority of the publications are cantered around leprosy, covering various aspects such as epidemiology, clinical management, diagnostic tools (including high-resolution ultrasound and antibody testing), treatment strategies, and the impact of interventions like Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT).

Authors and Collaborations

They are number of collaborators nationally, Internationally. Nireekshana recognizes the strength of collaboration. They collaborate with other researchers across multiple studies, suggesting a network of experts involved in leprosy, HIV and NTD research research.

Multi-Dimensional Approach

The research spans clinical studies, epidemiological surveys, histopathological analyses, immunological studies, and the application of advanced diagnostic techniques (like ultrasonography and ELISA assays). This multi-dimensional approach helps in comprehensively understanding various facets of leprosy and other diseases.

. Impact of COVID-19

There is a publication discussing the management of leprosy during the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting adaptation and recommendations for handling endemic diseases during global health crises.

Longitudinal Studies

Some publications indicate longitudinal studies (e.g., cohort studies) that track outcomes over time, providing insights into disease progression, treatment responses, and long-term complications.

Collaborative Efforts

Collaborations with international organizations and institutions within India underscore a concerted effort to address leprosy comprehensively and globally.

Innovation in Diagnostic Tools

Introduction of high-resolution ultrasound as a diagnostic tool highlights efforts to innovate and improve diagnostic accuracy in leprosy, especially for neuropathic complications.

Policy and Practice

Publications include recommendations and guidelines for improving leprosy management, influencing policy and clinical practice in India.

These insights collectively underscore a robust research effort aimed at advancing knowledge, improving diagnostic capabilities, optimizing treatment strategies, and ultimately enhancing the quality of care for individuals affected by leprosy, HIV and other diseases.

Immunological Response

Several studies delve into the immune response to Mycobacterium leprae, the bacterium causing leprosy. This includes investigating how host immune cells recognize and respond to the pathogen, leading to varying disease outcomes such as tuberculoid or lepromatous leprosy.

Genetic Susceptibility

Research explores genetic factors influencing susceptibility to leprosy, focusing on host genetic polymorphisms associated with immune response genes like HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) loci. Understanding these variations helps in elucidating why some individuals are more prone to developing leprosy.

Cytokine Profiles

Studies analyze cytokine profiles in leprosy patients, examining the balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Imbalances in cytokine production contribute to disease pathology and clinical manifestations.

Role of Macrophages

Investigations into how Mycobacterium leprae interacts with macrophages, the primary host cells, shed light on bacterial survival strategies and the immune evasion mechanisms employed by the pathogen.

Epigenetic Modifications

Exploration of epigenetic changes in leprosy patients elucidates how environmental factors and host genetics influence gene expression patterns relevant to disease progression and clinical outcomes.

MicroRNA Regulation

esearch into microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in leprosy pathogenesis identifies specific miRNAs that regulate immune responses or bacterial survival within host cells, potentially serving as biomarkers or therapeutic targets.

Drug Resistance Mechanisms

Investigation of molecular mechanisms underlying drug resistance in Mycobacterium leprae informs strategies for optimizing treatment regimens and combating emerging resistance patterns.

These molecular mechanisms highlight the intricate interplay between the host immune system, bacterial pathogenesis, genetic factors, and environmental influences in the context of leprosy. Understanding these mechanisms not only advances knowledge of disease pathophysiology but also informs the development of novel diagnostic tools, therapeutic interventions, and strategies for disease control and management.