JMI
Javed N Agrewala, Professor, immunologist and Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar awardee presented his pioneering research identifying novel chemicals from bacteria that may have therapeutic applications in suppressing immune response during transplantation and treating autoimmune diseases at Jamia Millia Islamia.
Professor Agrewala whose work has been patented and licensed to a US-based pharmaceutical company for USD 3 million discussed his latest research advances in immunology with students, PhD scholars, postdoctoral fellows and faculty members of the Department of Biotechnology, JMI the organiser of the event.
Agrewala is Professor at the Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, Punjab is a member of all three national science academies -- National Academy of Sciences, India, Indian National Science Academy, and Indian Academy of Sciences.
JMI Vice-Chancellor Talat Ahmad who was the Chief Guest on the occasion, in his address encouraged faculty members to explore possibilities for collaborative research with Agrewala and other researchers.
He underscored the importance of scientific collaborations and networking for impactful research.
Moshahid Rizvi, Head, Department of Biosciences briefed Agrewala about the departmental activities and facilities.
Shafique Ansari, Director Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences showed Agrewala the resources available at his centre as well as at the Central Instrumentation Facility of Jamia.
M Sami, Dean of Faculty of Natural Sciences delivered the welcome address and shared his inspirational views with students and faculties.
Professor Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque, Head of Department of Biotechnology, in his address, highlighted the need for conducting high-quality research that addresses health issues in India.
He motivated students to develop a passion for top-notch research and become scientific leaders.
Mohammad Husain delivered the vote of thanks.
Agrewala's immunological research has been focusing on the host-pathogen interactions and the complex roles played by macrophages and T cells in defense against pathogens.
The team led by him studied Caerulomycin A, a pyridine-derived broad-spectrum antiobiotic and its immunosuppressive activity, work that is being developed by Nostrum Pharmaceuticals which bought it for a reported US$ 3 million.
