Research Associates

Dr. Roshan Fatima Begum

Role of Gap Junction Proteins in Circadian Rhythms
My studies aim to elucidate the role of Innexins (Invertebrate analog of Connexins), which constitute gap junctions, in modulating circadian rhythms in Drosophila melanogaster. 
My goal is to reveal the various cell types between which gap junctions might form which enable their action in circadian pacemaking. I hope to uncover the circuitry in which electrical coupling is enabled by Innexins in adult fly circadian pacemakers.
I use various genetic, molecular and cytological approaches along with behavioural assays to understand this phenomenon.
 

Sushma S Rao

I am a research assistant and I am responsible for maintaining several populations of wild caught Drosophilid species. In addition I have assisted in several past and ongoing projects in the laboratory.
I also worked on a collaborative study with Dr Sarit Agasti (NCU, JNCASR) whose group constructed a fully synthetic and non covalent based tag for fast and efficient biorthogonal assembly in cells and tissues. I assisted the research team in preparing and processing samples of ovary, thoracic muscle and intestinal tissues from Drosophila adults and larvae. This work finds application in various studies, including cell surface engineering. 
Currently I am working on another collaborative project with Dr Shahnaz R Lone (Central University of Punjab) where sleep is being induced in flies during day time by mechanosensory stimulation.