Microbiome in Neurological Conditions: Biology, Mechanisms, and Diagnostic Approach

Dr. S. Murugan is an esteemed Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences, a distinguished Deemed University situated in Coimbatore. He boasts a rich academic background, holding an M.Sc. in Microbiology from Manonmaniam Sundaranar University and a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Bharathiar University.

His illustrious career spans over 25 years, during which he has exhibited profound dedication to the realm of education. Dr. Murugan's scholarly contributions are remarkable, encompassing 72 research articles, 5 articles pertaining to career development, and 7 general articles in esteemed international journals. Additionally, he has showcased his erudition by crafting 6 insightful book chapters.

Dr. S. Murugan's commitment extends beyond research and publications. He has played a pivotal role in nurturing academic excellence by guiding 7 Ph.D. students and currently overseeing the mentorship of 7 promising Ph.D. scholars. His affiliations with prestigious organisations underscore his professional stature. Beyond academia, Dr. Murugan's endeavours in community health initiatives underscore his holistic approach to well-being. This showcases his commitment to fostering a positive impact beyond the academic sphere. His multifaceted contributions exemplify a distinguished educator, researcher, and advocate for community welfare.

Dr. Shyamjith Manikkoth is a devoted scholar in the field of Pharmacology, currently holding the esteemed position of Associate Professor at the Kanachur Institute of Medical Sciences in Mangalore. His academic and research voyage has been distinguished by an unwavering passion for delving into the intricacies of neuropharmacology and ethnopharmacology.

His professional trajectory is characterised by a rich tapestry of experiences. Dr. Manikkoth has undergone rigorous training in the intricate techniques of laboratory animal handling and has acquired proficiency in operating advanced instruments, including HPLC and Spectrophotometer. An outstanding milestone in his career was his pivotal role in establishing cutting-edge Ethnopharmacology and Neuropharmacology laboratories at Yenepoya University in Mangalore. Furthermore, he has contributed significantly to cost-effective enhancements of various pharmacological apparatus and instruments utilized in animal experiments.

Furthermore, he has contributed significantly to cost-effective enhancements of various pharmacological apparatus and instruments utilised in animal experiments. His research pursuits have been firmly grounded in the realms of Ethnopharmacology and Neuropharmacology, providing him with a profound insight into the captivating domains of traditional medicinal practices and the neurological facets of pharmacology. The zenith of Dr. Manikkoth's academic and research odyssey is eloquently mirrored in his portfolio of achievements. From probing the neuroprotective potential inherent in natural compounds to pioneering innovative teaching methodologies, his research journey has been a kaleidoscope of diversity and intellectual enrichment.

Dr. C. Vani presently holds the esteemed position of Assistant Professor at the Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences. Her academic and research journey stands as a testament to her unwavering commitment to the pursuit of knowledge and excellence.

Her academic voyage commenced at Nirmala College for Women in Coimbatore, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Zoology. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, she continued her educational odyssey at Bharathiar University. Here, she achieved a Master's degree in Animal Sciences, followed by a Master of Philosophy (M.Phil) in Animal Sciences. The zenith of her academic journey was reached when she attained her Ph.D. in Biotechnological research.

Dr. Vani's contributions to the field have garnered recognition in the form of prestigious honours and awards. Notably, she has received sponsorship from the Department of Biotechnology and the Ministry of Science and Technology, enabling her to conduct training programs in the specialized domains of animal and plant tissue culture, as well as advanced techniques in animal cell culture. Her professional trajectory harmoniously aligns with her ongoing research endeavors, which primarily revolve around the exploration of bioactive compounds derived from Lactobacillus plantarum. These compounds hold promising potential as therapeutic agents for addressing the complex challenges posed by Alzheimer's Disease.

Riddhi Upadhyay is an ardent Ph.D. scholar with a specialised focus on the realm of neurodegenerative diseases. Her research centres on these complex conditions, reflecting her deep commitment to unraveling their mysteries and advancing treatment approaches. Riddhi's academic journey commenced with an Honors Bachelor's degree in Zoology from The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSUB). She then pursued a Master's degree in Molecular Medicine from the Institute of Advanced Research (IAR), enhancing her knowledge and research acumen.

One of her notable accomplishments was her involvement in a project titled “Study of neuroprotective potential associated with Oleuropein (Olea europaea leaf extract) using Drosophila melanogaster as an Alzheimer's Disease model” during her masters. In this endeavour, she gained invaluable hands-on experience in handling Drosophila melanogaster, along with exposure to a range of behavioural and biological assays. Furthermore, Riddhi served as a Teaching Assistant at Ahmedabad University in Gujarat, where she honed her skills in survey-based analysis and environmental impact factor assessment.

Her research pursuits are dedicated to crafting treatment strategies aimed at alleviating isolation-induced stress triggered by neurodegenerative diseases. With a solid academic foundation and an unwavering passion for research, Riddhi brings a unique perspective to her work. Her expertise spans the fields of behavioural science and the profound impact of disrupted homeostasis in the central nervous system. Riddhi’s contributions to her research, by her publication of a book chapter with two book chapters and one research article. Through her scientific and analytical prowess, she strives to develop safe and effective therapeutic approaches, enriching the landscape of neurodegenerative disease treatment.