Hometown: 

India

 

Education: 

PhD, Molecular Medicine, Hannover Medical School

 

Research Interests: 

Effects of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) on reproduction and pregnancy.

EDCs are environmental chemicals that interfere with critical cell signaling pathways and causes harmful developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that modulates gene expression facilitating adaptations to environmental changes. We investigate the impact of EDCs acting through AHR on establishment of the hemochorial placenta. Our research approach utilizes trophoblast stem cells and mutant rat models, including the development of a humanized AHR rat model possessing polymorphisms affecting AHR action, and translational experiments with human placental tissues. The actions of EDCs on placental development have profound health relevance because the placenta plays an essential role in regulating maternal health, fetal growth and maturation, and is also critical for long-term postnatal health.

 

Grant Support:

NIEHS R21 ES028957-01A1: Molecular Mechanisms Of Endocrine Disruptor Actions On Placentation. (09/2018 - 08/2020), Role: PI.

NIEHS R01 ES029280: Environmental Exposures, Ahr Activation, And Placental Origins Of Development  (06/01/2018 - 05/31/2023), Role: Co-I.

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