Research in Biochemistry division is broadly directed towards understanding of intricate host-pathogen dynamics, with focus on autophagy as a pivotal player in bacterial (enteric bacteria and ESKAPE pathogens) pathogenesis. We aim to elucidate how bacterial pathogens manipulate the host's autophagy pathway to facilitate their own survival and enhance their pathogenicity. By exploring into the molecular mechanisms that govern these interactions, we seek to delineate the strategies employed by bacteria to evade host immune responses and subvert autophagic machinery for their own survival. Such insights are pivotal for identifying new therapeutic targets critical for combating infectious diseases.

A crucial aspect of our research is to address the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance, which necessitates innovative and effective strategies for medical intervention beyond traditional antibiotics which are becoming increasingly ineffective due to the rapid evolution of resistant strains. We are particularly interested in the potential of naturally derived compounds as autophagy modulators, thereby providing promising alternatives to conventional therapeutic approaches. Our overarching goal is to achieve a holistic and comprehensive understanding of host-pathogen interactions, and contribute to the development of next-generation antimicrobials that are both effective and sustainable, leveraging the host's own cellular machinery to combat infections and mitigate the threat of drug-resistant pathogens.