Why is RNA biology so critical in viral infections?
Most major pathogens like influenza, HIV, and coronaviruses use RNA as their genetic material. Unlike DNA viruses, RNA viruses replicate with error-prone RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, lacking proofreading. This leads to frequent mutations, enabling rapid evolution, immune escape, and cross-species transmission. Understanding RNA biology is thus central to mapping viral replication, tracking mutations, and designing diagnostics and vaccines. For example, qRT-PCR relies on detecting viral RNA, while the success of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines reflects decades of RNA research. RNA also shapes host responses through molecules like microRNAs that regulate immunity which viruses can hijack. Studying these interactions is not only science, but a survival strategy.
How do host-virus RNA interactions affect disease and treatment?
Viruses hijack host RNA machinery to replicate, disrupting cell functions and weakening immunity. Our work on Chikungunya virus has shown how viral proteins manipulate host factors to persist and spread. Host microRNAs can fight infection, but some are exploited by viruses to hide from defenses. By targeting these RNA pathways blocking harmful microRNAs or mimicking protective ones we can design RNA-based therapies. These molecules may also serve as biomarkers, aiding in diagnosis and predicting disease severity.
How promising are repurposed drugs and plant extracts?
Repurposing existing drugs and testing plant extracts offers quicker, cost-effective options alongside new drug discovery. Our Telmisartan and ibuprofen conjugates showed strong anti-Chikungunya activity, reducing replication and interacting with viral proteins. Since ibuprofen is already approved, modified forms can move faster through clinical pipelines. Similarly, extracts of Hypericum gaitii showed activity against both Chikungunya and SARS-CoV-2. While natural variability poses challenges, plant-based antivirals rooted in Ayurveda offer affordable alternatives, especially for resource-limited settings. Together, synthetic compounds, repurposed drugs, and plant extracts form a complementary antiviral strategy.
How should India strengthen preparedness?
India needs virus and emerging pathogen-focused infrastructure BSL-2/3 labs, sequencing, and training in molecular virology and computational biology. Building a national RNA virus surveillance network under the one-health concept is critical to track emerging strains. Interdisciplinary collaborations like virologists with botanists, chemists with data scientists can accelerate discovery of natural and synthetic antivirals. Investing in RNA research ensures rapid response to outbreaks and builds resilience against future pandemics.
What is your vision for your lab’s contribution?
Our lab aims to uncover the molecular conversations between RNA viruses and their hosts to identify therapeutic targets and diagnostic markers. We also focus on natural antivirals, offering accessible treatments for underserved communities. Collaboration with clinicians, industries, and public health experts ensures our findings translate into real-world impact. Ultimately, we envision a future where India leads in outbreak preparedness, and viral diseases are no longer met with panic but with preparedness and effective solutions.
