Assistant Professor
Centrosome and Cilia biology lab
E-mail: karthigeyan at rcb dot res dot in
Centrosomes were discovered towards the end of nineteenth century as a membrane less self-replicating, microtubule based organelle, and later established as the major organiser (MTOC) in animal cell. However, its role is not fully understood beyond spindle assembly and cell division.
Often centriole associated structures like centrosome, centriolar satellite and ciliary basal bodies are interconvertible membraneless structures that are dynamic in nature. These transitions are regulated by means of common pathways operating at various spatio-temporal windows within the cellular life span to play their mitotic and extra-mitotic roles. We are now realising much more robust functioning of these structures in regulating events beyond cell division like subcellular trafficking, intracellular signalling, polarity establishment, development and differentiation. On the contrary these structures are totally dispensable in certain terminally differentiated states and other unique and interesting instances. Again the process of centrosomal inactivation is poorly defined and still remains an open end for research.
With the advent of proteomic tools, we have started gaining better insights off late in terms of the composition and functioning of centrosomes for some but not all cellular cues. Similarly, super-resolution techniques have aided in revealing more interesting features of centrosomes and cilia in the physiological and pathological states. Nevertheless, a vast set of cellular instances remain unexplored till date.
Our research interests lie in understanding the perturbation of centriole based organelles across varying disease state that contributes to the pathobiological manifestations and how best to intervene them in order to restore the physiological states. We majorly try understanding the centrosome and ciliary structures using imaging based approaches and the signalling aspects of these organelles by means of basic biochemical and molecular cell biology approaches combining the tools of modern proteomics, electron microscopy and super-resolution imaging.
Laboratory of Centrosome and Cilia is broadly interested in studying,
Opportunities: Inquiries from prospective students, trainees and postdocs with an interest in Centrosome biology are welcome. Please write to karthigeyan at rcb dot res dot in, explaining your interests. We would be happy to sponsor deserving candidates for Post-Doctoral fellowships such as NPDF, DBT-RA, WOS, INSPIRE Faculty and IA-Early Career Fellowship as long as they are relevant to the lab theme.
We are looking for diligent and motivated scholars keen to explore cell biology to join the group. Feel free to contact for the possibilities of joining the lab for dissertation training if interested in centrosome biology. We would be happy to host deserving candidates for Post-Doctoral fellowships such as NPDF, DBT-RA, WOS, INSPIRE Faculty and IA-Early Career Fellowship as long as they are relevant to the lab theme.
Present and Past Lab Members
Exploring centrosome targeting mechanism of RNA viral proteins and studying the centriolar perturbations in the infected host cell using molecular and cellular approaches. Apart from research I like to draw mandala art in my free time.
Understanding the CHIKV host cell biology by means of molecular virology, cellular imaging and subcellular visualisation. Outside the lab I enjoy a good book or movie and relish tasting new food.
Designing tools to explore centrosomes and beyond using gene editing and stable cell line generation. Apart from science, I like to watch movies.
Understanding the contributions of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in centrosome targeted proteins during ageing and infection. I like expressing myself through writing.
Molecular signatures defining centrosome localization and retention using molecular and proteomic approaches. I like to spend my free time solving Sudoku, keeping up with world geopolitics and learning Carnatic music if I'm not in the lab.
Contributing to the cutting-edge field of Super-resolution imaging, facilitating breakthroughs in understanding cellular structures and dynamics, by employing innovative methodologies and image processing. I have a deep passion for photography, cooking, and swimming, and indulging in the world of movies is another source of joy for me.
I enjoy playing Volley ball and Cricket after work.
Dr. Karthigeyan Dhanasekaran M.V.Sc, Ph.D.
Centrosome and Cilia biology lab
Regional Centre for Biotechnology
NCR Biotech Science Cluster
3rd Milestone, Faridabad-Gurgaon Expressway
P.O. Box No. 3, Faridabad - 121 001
Haryana (NCR Delhi), India
e-mail: karthigeyan at rcb dot res dot in
Phone: 91 0129-2848739
