Hi, my name is Nishka, and I am a Biotechnologist from India. I have done my Bachelor and Master programs in Biotechnology from Rajalakshmi Engineering College. My professional journey led me to the Centre for Stem Cell Research at Christian Medical College in Vellore, where I worked as a Junior Research Fellow for two years. The primary focus of my research was to manufacture CAR-T cells, particularly allogenic CAR-T cells using viral and non-viral methods. Being a part of this project has equipped me with not just the technical skills required to work in any lab, but also the importance of life skills like patience, will power and determination, which I feel are also essential takeaways that I can apply to in my day-to-day life.
My current research is tentatively titled “Unraveling distinct skin regeneration pathways: A Comparative Study between Normal and Spiny Mouse Models”.
The objectives include:
- Optimize and establish mouse skin injury and repair model.
- Identify the key proteins and metabolic pathways involved in ECM dynamics and skin regeneration in both normal and spiny mouse models.
- Investigate the effects of different drugs on matrix repair and restoration post-injury in mouse models.
- Compare the responses elicited in normal mouse models to those observed in spiny mouse models.
- Identify unique aspects and potential therapeutic targets to simulate scarless skin regeneration.
Overall, this research has the potential to advance our understanding of skin biology, facilitate the development of novel therapeutic interventions for wound healing, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals affected by skin injuries and scarring.
I have always wanted to be a part of the kind of research that brings a change in the lives of people. To me, that usually is translational research, where I can see for myself, the research I have done in lab on small scale being translated to benfit the people around me. The project that I will carry out has potential for that. It can enhance the quality of lives of people who have been affected by skin injuries and scars. Moreover, the ARC training centre has so many industrial collaborations. So, if everything goes smoothly, I believe there are chances my research can make a difference in the lives of the people.
I love to dance and sing, though I am terrible at both. So, I limit those activities to when I am alone. So, I guess, the socially acceptable activities would be being a Potterhead, sitting by the ocean and watching sunsets. Hiking, when I am not huffing and puffing can be included too. There are just too many. I cannot select, I am sorry. You will have to do the hard work and choose which one to put up (or not) on the website. Apologies, again.
