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Biochemistry

General Information

At Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, the Department of Biochemistry delves into the Biochemical processes that govern human health and disease. With a strong emphasis on research, students explore biochemical mechanisms through hands-on experience, developing the skills necessary for future innovation in healthcare and clinical diagnostics.

OUR VISION

To achieve academic excellence in imparting in depth knowledge of Biochemistry to the students, facilitating research activities & providing best laboratory services.

OUR MISSION

The department endeavors to accomplish excellence in the field of medical education, laboratory services and research by using advanced technologies & keeping up to date with the expanding field of Biochemistry.

PradnyaJayPhalak

Dr Pradnya Jay Phalak,
Professor & HOD

  • MBBS
  • MD
  • PhD
  • M.Sc. (Medical Biochemistry)

OPD Services
  • Round the Clock Routine Lab Investigations
In-Patient Services
  • Round the Clock Routine Lab Investigations
Other Services / Speciality Clinics
  • Special Investigations with prior appointment
  • Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
  • Infertility Markers
  • Tumour Markers
  • Immunological Markers
CCL Biochemistry Test List
SR. NO TEST
1ABG
2ADA MTB
3AFP Alpha Protein
4Albumin
5Alkaline Phosphatase
6Amylase
7Anti TPO
8Beta HCG
9Blood Urea
10Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN)
11BSL Fasting
12BSL PP
13BSL PP2
14BSL Random
15Calcium
16Carcino Embryonic Antigen (CEA)
17Chloride
18Cholesterol
19CKMB
20Cortisol
21C-Peptide
22CPK
23Creatinine
24CRP HS
25DHEA-S
26Direct Bilirubin
27Electrolyte
28Estradiol
29Ferritin
30Folate
31Free T3
32Free T4
33TSH
34FSH
35FSH-LH-PRL
36GTT
37HBA1C
38HDL-C
39Insulin
40Ionic Calcium
41Iron
42Iron Study (Ferritin+Iron)
43Lactate
44LDH
45Ldl Low Lipoprotein
46LFT
47LH
48Lipase
49Lipid Profile (FLP)
50Lithium
51Magnesium
52Micro Albumin
53Phosphorus
54Prolactin
55PSA
56PTH
57Renal Tests
58Serum Osmolarity
59Serum Protein + Albumin
60Serum Protein
61SGOT
62SGPT
63T3
64T3+T4+TSH
65T4
66Tacrolimus
67Testosterone
68Total Bilirubin
69TPO Antibody
70Triglycerides
71Trop I
72Trop-T
73TSH
74Uric Acid
75Urinary Amylase
76Urinary Calcium
77Urinary Potassium
78Urine Albumin Creatinine Ratio
79Urine Osmolality
80Urine Phosphorus
81Urine Protein Creatinine Ratio (UPCR)
82Urine Protein for 24 Hrs
8324 Hrs Urine Sodium
8424 Hrs Urine Creatinine
85Spot Urine Protein
86Spot Urine Sodium
87Spot Urine Creatinine
88Urine Electrolytes
89Urobilinogen
90Valproic Acid
91VBG
92Ammonia
93Vitamin B12
94Vitamin D3
95Homocysteine
96Serum Electrophoresis
97HB Electrophoresis
98Xylose Excretion
99Fluid LDH
100Fluid Amylase
101Fluid Albumin
102Fluid Lipase
103Fluid Creatinine

SN Name of the Faculty Photograph Educational Qualification Designation Registration No.
1 Dr. Pradnya Jay Phalak MBBS, MD Professor & HOD 2003031057
2 Dr. Umesh Kishanrao More MSc, PhD (Medical Biochemistry) Professor NA
3 Dr. Sarita Anil Shinde MSc, PhD (Medical Biochemistry) Professor NA
4 Dr. Abhijit Pratap Dr. Abhijit Pratap MBBS, MD Professor 2009072811
5 Dr. Anita Deepak Deshmukh MBBS, MD Professor 73993
6 Dr. Arti Mihir Hajarnavis MSc, PhD (Medical Biochemistry) Associate Professor NA
7 Dr. Vrushali Anupkumar Rawool MBBS, MD Associate Professor 2005042209
8 Dr. Sandesh Gorakh Thorat MBBS, MD Associate Professor 2004103644
9 Dr. Madhuri Abhay Jagtap MSc, PhD (Medical Biochemistry) Assistant Professor NA
10 Dr. Mohana Kumari C MBBS, MD Assistant Professor 94787
11 Mrs. Nidhi Rohan Purandare MSc (Medical Biochemistry) Tutor NA
12 Dr. Astha Yadav MBBS, MD Senior Resident 20690
13 Dr. Astha Goyal BDS, MSc, PhD (Medical Biochemistry) Tutor NA
14 Mrs. Meenakshi BMLT, MSc (Medical Biochemistry) Tutor NA
15 Dr. Vinod Kumar P MBBS Tutor PR 20240044631
16 Dr. Pritam Bhaskar Mhase Dr. Pritam Bhaskar Mhase MBBS Tutor 188134
17 Dr. Mali Krishna Sudhir MBBS Tutor 2021043152
18 Dr. Pooja Krishna Bankar MBBS Tutor 2023085365
19 Dr. Kiran Uttam Deshmukh MBBS Tutor 20250100274

Staff Accommodation
  Image 8
(Professor & HOD Cabin)
  Image 8
(Professor Cabin)
  Image 8
(Associate Professor Cabin)
  Image 8
(Demonstrator Cabin)

Facilities Available
Laboratories:
  • UG Laboratory
  • PG Laboratory
  • Research Laboratory
  • Service Laboratory
Departmental Library cum Seminar Room:
  • Yes
Number of Books in Library:
  • 197 books
Audio-Visual Teaching Aids:
  • Overhead Projector
  • Slide Projector
  • Internet / Wi-Fi
  • L.C.D Projector
  • Television
  • Panaboard
  • Computer and Printer
  • Video Conference Facility
Research Laboratory
Research Laboratory
PG Laboratory
PG Laboratory
UG Laboratory for I M.B.B.S
UG Laboratory for I M.B.B.S

Academics Extension and Research

Seminar 2023

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Quiz 2023

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Spectrophotometer
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Electrophoresis
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Immunoassay autoanalyser
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ABG analyzer
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Electrolyte analyzer
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HPLC
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Autoanalyser
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Analyzer
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Nephelometer
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DPU FUNED FACULTY PROJECTS

Sr. No. Name of the Project and Duration Name of Teachers Amount of Seed Money Provided (INR in Lakhs) Sanctioned Year
1 The study of cardiac biomarkers in Prediabetes and in Established type 2 diabetes mellitus patients Dr. Sarita Shinde 2.5 2022-23
2 Clinico-biochemical correlation of CMV viral load and Tacrolimus levels in follow up study of renal transplant patients Dr. Abhijit Pratap 2.5 2022-23

Research Summary

Sr. No. Name of the CME/Conference/Workshop Date Place Name of the Participant
1 Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International certificate of Excellence in Reviewing 8th Feb 2022 Online Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpari, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
2 All India Institute of Medical Science, Rajkot Symposium – Cellular & Molecular Biomarkers 14th May 2022 Online Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpari, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
3 Workshop IMPACT 2022 ‘Scientific writing & Reviewing’ 15-17 Sep 2022 Online Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpari, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak

  1. Sarita A. Shinde, Vaishali V. Dhat, Pradnya J. Phalak, Umesh K. More, Anita D. Deshmukh, Mona A. Tilak. An Overview on Biochemical Parameters and Organ Injury in COVID-19 Patients. Asian Journal of Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology April 2022; Vol. 10, Issue 4: 48-56.
  1. Ankita Dwivedi, Dr. Umesh More, Dr. Sanjay Deo, Dr. Janapamala V S Kishore, Rupa Madhavi Kopparthi. Pro-inflammatory biomarkers and cytokines in the various stages of Osteoarthritis. Journal of Pharmaceutical Negative Results 2023; Vol. 14, Issue 03: 466-472.
  2. Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Abhijit Pratap. Study of Testosterone Levels in Coronary Artery Disease with Poorly Controlled Diabetes Mellitus in Males. International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research 2023; Vol. 15(7): 552-554.
  3. Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Abhijit Pratap. Hemoglobin variant study by HPLC method at a tertiary care centre. Journal of Medicinal and Chemical Sciences 2023; Vol. 6(11): 2841-2848.
  4. Dr. Anita Deshmukh, Sarita Shinde, Vaishali Dhat, Pradnya Phalak. Treasure Hunt in Biochemistry. Medical Journal of Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth 2023; Vol. 16(4): 654-655.
  5. Madhuri Abhay Jagtap, Vaishali Dhat, Samiksha Sanjay Shelar, Seema Vishwanath Bhalerao, Gouri Bhoite. Evaluation of correlation between methylglyoxal and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes mellitus. European Chemical Bulletin 2023; Vol. 12(10): 10914-10936.
  6. Abhijit Pratap, Umesh More, Pradnya Phalak, Anita Deshmukh. Letter regarding ‘Risk factors in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease’. Clinical & Molecular Hepatology 2023.
  7. Sarita Shinde, Anita Deshmukh, Umesh More. Neonatal Sickle Cell Disease Assessment in Rural Indian Community: Demand for Point of Care Testing (POCT). Journal of Medicinal and Chemical Sciences 2023; Vol. 7(1): 1-8.
  8. Dr. Astha Goyal, Dr. Sarita Shinde, Nidhi Purandare. Oral Health in Nepal: Challenges vs. Spiritual Belief. International Journal of Dental Hygiene 2023.
  9. Dr. Susmita Banerjee, Dr. Shilpa Joshi. Estimation of Lipoprotein levels & Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Psoriasis. European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine 2023; Vol. 13(4): 89-91.
  10. Abhijit Pratap, Umesh More, Vaishali Dhat, Pradnya Phalak, Chaitali Borgaonkar. Letter regarding “Elastase and COVID-19 relationship, and potential natural resource as elastase inhibitors: A comprehensive review”. Journal of Applied Biology & Biotechnology 2023; Vol. 11(6): 255-225.
  11. Dr. Sandesh Thorat, Dr. Pradnya Phalak. Supportive and Alternative Method to Learn Biochemistry - Poster Preparation and Presentation. European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine 2023; Vol. 13(4): 227-232.
  12. Dr. Sandesh Thorat, Dr. Pradnya Phalak. Study of Lipid Profile in Chronic Renal Failure Patients. European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine 2023; Vol. 13(4): 128-133.
  13. Dr. Abhijit Pratap, Dr. Umesh More, Dr. Vaishali Dhat, Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Chaitali Borgaonkar. Elastase and COVID-19 relationship, and potential natural resource as elastase inhibitors: A comprehensive review. Journal of Applied Biology & Biotechnology 2023; Vol. 11(6): 255-225.
  14. Dr. Sarita Shinde. Increased Uric Acid Levels Following Consumption: A Biochemical Perspective. Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition 2023; Vol. 73(3): 262.
  15. Dr. Vaishali Dhat, Dr. Abhijit Pratap, Dr. Sarita Shinde, Dr. Anita Deshmukh. Do High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels Really Reflect Cardio Protection? Journal of Public Health 2023; Vol. 67(3): 491-492.
  16. Dr. Sarita Shinde. The Impact of Varying Criteria for Prediabetes on Prevalence. Diabetes Care 2023; Vol. 46: 1388–1394.
  17. Dr. Abhijit Pratap. Quality Control in Medical Laboratory: Are We Doing Enough? Indian Journal of Public Health 2023; Vol. 67(4): 684-685.
  18. Anagha V. Shete, Arti M. Hajarnavis, Mrinal V. Shete, Ashwini A. Nerkar-Rajbhoj, Abhijeet Sande, Pallavi P. Channe. Safety of E-Cigarettes and Its Effectiveness in Smoking Cessation: A Systematic Review. Journal of International Oral Health 2023; Vol. 15(5).
  19. Anagha V. Shete, Mrinal V. Shete, Ashwini Nerkar Rajbhoj, Ladusingh Rajpurohit, Arti Hajarnavis, Abhijeet Sande. Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Tobacco Cessation Counselling and Nicotine Replacement Therapy Among Dental Professionals. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care 2023; Vol. 12(10): 2338-2345.
  1. Dr. Sarita Shinde, Dr. Anita Deshmukh. Active learning - a new strategy of teaching for first year MBBS students. Journal of AI Ameen J Medical Science 2024; Vol. 17(1): 96-97.
  2. Dr. Sandesh Thorat, Dr. Pradnya Phalak. An Effective Self-directed Learning Method for Medical Students: Panel Discussion and Poster Preparation. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research February 2024; Vol. 18(2): BL03.
  3. Dr. Sarita Shinde, Dr. Umesh More. Teaching and Learning Strategies for First-year Medical Students. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research February 2024; Vol. 18(2): BL01-BL02.

No. Program Outcomes
1 Knowledge and Skills
2 Planning and problem solving abilities
3 Communication
4 Research Aptitude
5 Professionalism and Ethics
6 Leadership
7 Societal Responsibilities
8 Environment and Sustainability
9 Lifelong Learner

Biochemistry (MB103)
CO No. At the end of the course, the learner should be able to: Mapped Programme Outcomes
MB103.1 Describe the molecular and functional organization of a cell and list its subcellular components. PO1, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
MB103.2 Delineate structure, function and inter-relationships of biomolecules and consequences of deviation from normal. PO1, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.3 Summarize the fundamental aspects of enzymology and its clinical application. Describe enzyme inhibitors as poisons and drugs and as therapeutic enzyme. PO1, PO2, PO4, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.4 Describe digestion and assimilation of nutrients and consequences of malnutrition. PO1, PO3, PO5, PO7
MB103.5 Integrate the various aspects of metabolism and their regulatory pathway with structure and function of human body in health & disease. PO1, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.6 Explain the biochemical basis of inherited disorders with their associated sequelae. PO1, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.7 Describe mechanisms involved in maintenance of body fluid and pH homeostasis. PO1, PO2, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.8 Outline the molecular mechanisms of gene expression and regulation; the principles of genetic engineering and their application in medicine. PO1, PO2, PO4, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.9 Summarize the molecular concept of body defences and their application in medicine. PO1, PO4, PO5, PO7, PO8, PO9
MB103.10 Make use of conventional techniques/instruments to perform chemical analysis relevant to clinical screening and diagnosis. PO1, PO2, PO4, PO5, PO7, PO9
MB103.11 Analyze and interpret investigative data. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
MB103.12 Demonstrate the skills of solving scientific and clinical problems and decision making. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9

Mapping of Programme Outcomes with Course Outcomes - MBBS Biochemistry

No Course PO1
Total Score
PO2
Total Score
PO3
Total Score
PO4
Total Score
PO5
Total Score
PO6
Total Score
PO7
Total Score
PO8
Total Score
PO9
Total Score
MB103.1 Describe the molecular and functional organization of a cell and list its subcellular components. 3 1 1 2 1 2 2
MB103.2 Delineate structure, function and inter-relationships of biomolecules and consequences of deviation from normal. 3 2 2 2
MB103.3 Summarize the fundamental aspects of enzymology and its clinical application. Describe enzyme inhibitors as poisons and drugs and as therapeutic enzyme. 3 3 1 3 3 3
MB103.4 Describe digestion and assimilation of nutrients and consequences of malnutrition. 3 2 3 3
MB103.5 Integrate the various aspects of metabolism and their regulatory pathway with structure and function of human body in health & disease. 3 2 2 2
MB103.6 Explain the biochemical basis of inherited disorders with their associated sequelae. 3 3 2 3 3 2
MB103.7 Describe mechanisms involved in maintenance of body fluid and pH homeostasis. 3 1 3 3 1
MB103.8 Outline the molecular mechanisms of gene expression and regulation; the principles of genetic engineering and their application in medicine. 3 3 3 2 2 2
MB103.9 Summarize the molecular concept of body defences and their application in medicine. 3 1 3 3 1 3
MB103.10 Make use of conventional techniques/instruments to perform chemical analysis relevant to clinical screening and diagnosis. 3 2 3 2 2 3
MB103.11 Analyze and interpret investigative data. 3 2 2 3 2 3 1
MB103.12 Demonstrate the skills of solving scientific and clinical problems and decision making. 3 3 3 2 3 3 3 2
Sum 36 14 11 13 31 6 31 1 23
Average 3 3 2 2 3 2 3 1 2
Item 12 6 5 11 12 3 11 1 12

PO & CO analysis PG
Biochemistry (PCO3)
CO No. At the end of the course, the learner should be able to: Mapped Programme Outcomes
PCO3.1 Explain concepts and principles of biochemistry and cell biology, including correlations of these with cellular and molecular processes involved in health, in disease states for clinical problem solving and research. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO5, PO6, PO9
PCO3.2 Describe pathways of the intermediary metabolism along with their individual and integrated regulation and apply that in understanding the functioning of the body. PO1, PO5, PO9
PCO3.3 Describe and apply the concept of nutrition in health and disease, micro- and macronutrition and essential nutrients, and interlinks of nutrients with metabolism and functions of a living system. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
PCO3.4 Acquire knowledge on application of various aspects of genetic engineering in Medicine. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO8, PO9
PCO3.5 Acquire knowledge and apply the principle of statistics, biostatistics and epidemiology to the evaluation and interpretation of molecular and metabolic disease states. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
PCO3.6 Evaluate, analyze and monitor disease states by applying relevant biochemical investigations and interpreting the clinical and laboratory data and integrate principles of immunology in biochemistry. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
PCO3.7 Demonstrate knowledge of basics of research methodology, develop a research protocol, analyze data using currently available statistical software, interpret results and disseminate these results, to pursue further specializations and eventually be competent to guide students. PO1, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
PCO3.8 Describe the principles of teaching-learning technology towards application. Take interactive classroom lectures, prepare modules, organize and conduct PBLs, case discussions, small group discussions, seminars, journal club, and research presentations. PO1, PO3, PO5, PO6, PO9
PCO3.9 Demonstrate knowledge about recent advances and trends in research in the field of clinical biochemistry. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO7, PO9
PCO3.10 Communicate biochemical reasoning effectively to the members of the health care team and demonstrate empathy and respect towards patients, families, peers, and other healthcare professionals, regardless of the biochemical nature of their disease. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
PCO3.11 Develop differential diagnoses for molecular and metabolic causes of diseases, suggest preventive, curative, and/or palliative strategies for the management of disease and predict effectiveness and adverse effects associated with disease intervention. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO5, PO6, PO7, PO9
PCO3.12 Demonstrate skills for clinical diagnosis, testing, understanding of biochemical conditions and diagnostic service. PO1, PO2, PO3, PO4, PO5, PO6, PO9

Mapping of Programme Outcomes with Course Outcomes - MD Biochemistry
No Course PO1 PO2 PO3 PO4 PO5 PO6 PO7 PO8 PO9
PCO3.1 Explain concepts and principles of biochemistry and cell biology, including correlations of these with cellular and molecular processes involved in health, in disease states for clinical problem solving and research. 3 1 1 3 2 2
PCO3.2 Describe pathways of the intermediary metabolism along with their individual and integrated regulation and apply that in understanding the functioning of the body. 3 2 2
PCO3.3 Describe and apply the concept of nutrition in health and disease, micro- and macronutrition and essential nutrients, and interlinks of nutrients with metabolism and functions of a living system. 3 3 1 3 2 2 2
PCO3.4 Acquire knowledge on application of various aspects of genetic engineering in Medicine. 3 2 2 3 2 1 3
PCO3.5 Acquire knowledge and apply the principle of statistics, biostatistics and epidemiology to the evaluation and interpretation of molecular and metabolic disease states. 3 1 2 3 2 3 1 2
PCO3.6 Evaluate, analyze and monitor disease states by applying relevant biochemical investigations and interpreting the clinical and laboratory data and integrate principles of immunology in biochemistry. 3 2 1 1 3 2 1 2
PCO3.7 Demonstrate knowledge of basics of research methodology, develop a research protocol, analyze data using currently available statistical software, interpret results and disseminate these results, to pursue further specializations and eventually be competent to guide students. 3 2 3 2 1 1 2
PCO3.8 Describe the principles of teaching - learning technology towards application. Take interactive classroom lectures, prepare modules, organize and conduct PBLs, case discussions, small group discussions, seminars, journal club, and research presentations. 3 2 3 2 1
PCO3.9 Demonstrate knowledge about recent advances and trends in research in the field of clinical biochemistry. 3 1 1 2 2 1 2
PCO3.10 Communicate biochemical reasoning effectively to the members of the health care team and demonstrate empathy and respect towards patients, families, peers, and other healthcare professionals, regardless of the biochemical nature of their disease. 3 2 3 2 1 2 1
PCO3.11 Develop differential diagnoses for molecular and metabolic causes of diseases, suggest preventive, curative, and/or palliative strategies for the management of disease and predict effectiveness and adverse effects associated with disease intervention. 3 2 3 3 2 2 1
PCO3.12 Demonstrate skills for clinical diagnosis, testing, understanding of biochemical conditions and diagnostic service. 3 3 1 1 3 1 2
Sum 36 17 19 13 30 16 10 1 22
Avg 3 2 2 2 3 2 1 1 2
Item 12 9 11 6 12 9 7 1 12

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  1. Atherosclerosis: Research Reveals New Mechanism and Therapeutic Target

    New research offers fresh insights into how a type of immune cell can destabilize the fatty deposits, or plaques, that form in arteries during atherosclerosis. Healthy arteries keep the heart healthy. A new study may help prevent atherosclerosis — a disease that affects our blood vessels.

    Atherosclerosis is a persistent, inflammatory condition in which plaques build up inside arteries, causing them to narrow and restrict blood flow. When an atherosclerotic plaque bursts or breaks, it can trigger a heart attack or stroke.

    Neutrophils are an abundant type of leukocyte (white blood cell) that defend against infection by attacking microbes. They also serve "many roles in inflammation." The new international study reveals that neutrophils can aggravate atherosclerosis by triggering a previously unknown type of cell death that destabilizes arterial plaques.

    A recent Nature paper describes how neutrophils can induce a series of molecular events that also kills the smooth muscle cells that help to retain the plaques in the artery wall. "Every inflammatory reaction," says co-corresponding study author Prof. Oliver Söhnlein, from the Institute for Cardiovascular Prevention at the Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) of Munich in Germany, "results in some collateral damage, because neutrophils also attack healthy cells."

    He and his colleagues have also designed and made a "tailored peptide" that could potentially target and block the cell-death process.

  2. Embryo Stem Cells Created from Skin Cells

    Researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) have found a way to transform skin cells into the three major stem cell types that comprise early-stage embryos. The work (in mouse cells) has significant implications for modelling embryonic disease and placental dysfunctions, as well as paving the way to create whole embryos from skin cells.

    As published in Cell Stem Cell, Dr. Yossi Buganim of HU's Department of Developmental Biology and Cancer Research and his team discovered a set of genes capable of transforming murine skin cells into all three of the cell types that comprise the early embryo: the embryo itself, the placenta and the extra-embryonic tissues, such as the umbilical cord. In the future, it may be possible to create entire human embryos out of human skin cells, without the need for sperm or eggs. This discovery also has vast implications for modelling embryonic defects and shedding light on placental dysfunctions, as well as solving certain infertility problems by creating human embryos in a petri dish.

    Back in 2006, Japanese researchers discovered the capacity of skin cells to be "reprogrammed" into early embryonic cells that can generate an entire fetus, by expressing four central embryonic genes. These reprogrammed skin cells, termed "Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells" (iPSCs), are similar to cells that develop in the early days after fertilization and are essentially identical to their natural counterparts. These cells can develop into all fetal cell types, but not into extra-embryonic tissues, such as the placenta.

    Now, the Hebrew University research team, headed by Dr. Yossi Buganim, Dr. Oren Ram from the HU's Institute of Life Science and Professor Tommy Kaplan from HU's School of Computer Science and Engineering, as well as doctoral students Hani Benchetrit and Mohammad Jaber, found a new combination of five genes that, when inserted into skin cells, reprogram the cells into each of three early embryonic cell types -- iPS cells which create fetuses, placental stem cells, and stem cells that develop into other extra-embryonic tissues, such as the umbilical cord. These transformations take about one month.

    The HU team used new technology to scrutinize the molecular forces that govern cell fate decisions for skin cell reprogramming and the natural process of embryonic development. For example, the researchers discovered that the gene "Eomes" pushes the cell towards placental stem cell identity and placental development, while the "Esrrb" gene orchestrates fetus stem cells development through the temporary acquisition of an extra-embryonic stem cell identity.

    To uncover the molecular mechanisms that are activated during the formation of these various cell types, the researchers analyzed changes to the genome structure and function inside the cells when the five genes are introduced into the cell. They discovered that during the first stage, skin cells lose their cellular identity and then slowly acquire a new identity of one of the three early embryonic cell types, and that this process is governed by the levels of two of the five genes.

    Recently, attempts have been made to develop an entire mouse embryo without using sperm or egg cells. These attempts used the three early cell types isolated directly from a live, developing embryo. However, HU's study is the first attempt to create all three main cell lineages at once from skin cells. Further, these findings mean there may be no need to "sacrifice" a live embryo to create a test tube embryo.

  3. End to Aids in Sight as Huge Study Finds Drugs Stop HIV Transmission

    An end to the Aids epidemic could be in sight after a landmark study found men whose HIV infection was fully suppressed by antiretroviral drugs had no chance of infecting their partner.

    The success of the medicine means that if everyone with HIV were fully treated, there would be no further infections.

    Among nearly 1,000 male couples across Europe where one partner with HIV was receiving treatment to suppress the virus, there were no cases of transmission of the infection to the HIV-negative partner during sex without a condom. Although 15 men were infected with HIV during the eight-year study, DNA testing proved that was through sex with someone other than their partner who was not on treatment.

    “It’s brilliant – fantastic. This very much puts this issue to bed,” said Prof Alison Rodger from University College London, the co-leader of the paper published in the Lancet medical journal. Earlier studies have also shown the treatment protects heterosexual couples where one partner has HIV.

    She added: “Our findings provide conclusive evidence for gay men that the risk of HIV transmission with suppressive ART [antiretroviral therapy] is zero. Our findings support the message of the international U=U campaign that an undetectable viral load makes HIV untransmittable.”

    “This powerful message can help end the HIV pandemic by preventing HIV transmission, and tackling the stigma and discrimination that many people with HIV face. Increased efforts must now focus on wider dissemination of this powerful message and ensuring that all HIV-positive people have access to testing, effective treatment, adherence support and linkage to care to help maintain an undetectable viral load.”

    In 2017, there were almost 40 million people worldwide living with HIV, of whom 7 million were on antiretroviral treatment. An estimated 101,600 people are living with HIV in the UK, and of these, about 7,800 are undiagnosed, so do not know they are HIV positive.

    Myron S Cohen of the UNC Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases at Chapel Hill in North Carolina, said in a commentary in the Lancet on the study that it should push the world forward on a strategy to test and treat everyone who has HIV. But, he added, maximising the benefits of treatment, particularly for men who have sex with men, has proved difficult.

    “It is not always easy for people to get tested for HIV or find access to care; in addition, fear, stigma, homophobia and other adverse social forces continue to compromise HIV treatment,” he said. “Diagnosis of HIV infection is difficult in the early stages of infection when transmission is very efficient, and this limitation also compromises the treatment as prevention strategy.”

    According to the National Aids Trust, 97% of people on HIV treatment in the UK have an undetectable level of the virus, meaning they cannot pass it on. “Hearing this can be enormously empowering and reassuring to people living with HIV,” said Deborah Gold, the trust’s chief executive.

    The latest findings reinforce the importance of people taking HIV tests frequently, which could ultimately end the transmission of the virus altogether in the future. New diagnoses have been declining since their peak in 2005, with figures from 2017 showing a 17% drop on 2016 and a 28% fall compared with 2015.

    Late diagnosis remains a major challenge, still accounting for about 43% of new HIV diagnoses. This disproportionately affects certain groups, including black African heterosexual men and people aged 65 and older.

    “If we don’t reduce late diagnosis, there will always be those who are not aware of their HIV status and who therefore cannot access treatment,” said Gold. “We think that the findings from this study could be incredibly powerful in breaking down some of the barriers to testing in communities where there is still a lot of stigma around HIV.”

    However, she added that government funding cuts to specialist health services would make it more difficult to achieve a goal of eliminating transmission by 2030.

    Jens Lundgren, a professor of infectious diseases at Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, and joint-lead for the study, called Partner, said: “We have now provided the conclusive scientific evidence for how treatment effectively prevents further sexual transmission of HIV.”

    Dr Michael Brady, the medical director at the Terrence Higgins Trust, said: “It is impossible to overstate the importance of these findings. The Partner study has given us the confidence to say, without doubt, that people living with HIV who are on effective treatment cannot pass the virus on to their sexual partners. This has incredible impact on the lives of people living with HIV and is a powerful message to address HIV-related stigma.”

    Bruce Richman, the founding executive director of the Prevention Access Campaign, which launched U=U, said Pac was tremendously grateful to the researchers and participants. He said the study “has forever changed what it means to live and love with HIV around the world.”

    In a linked comment in the journal, Cohen expressed optimism for future treatment of Aids. “During the course of these studies, antiretroviral drugs have become more effective, reliable, durable, easier to take, well tolerated and much less expensive,” he said. “The results … provide yet one more catalyst for a universal test-and-treat strategy to provide the full benefits of antiretroviral drugs. This and other strategies continue to push us toward the end of Aids.”

    Case Study

    Alex Sparrowhawk, 34, has been living with HIV for almost 10 years. When he was diagnosed in November 2009, he had two major concerns: how being HIV positive would impact his work as a financial analyst, and what it meant for future relationships.

    “I was single at the time,” he said. “Just navigating what to do – when to tell people and how to talk to people was really difficult.”

    Alex immediately began antiretroviral treatment, initially taking four pills a day, which was reduced to one pill once his viral load came down to undetectable levels several months later. The latest results confirm that for the past nine years, he has not been able to transmit the virus to anyone, although at the time, medical advice was less definitive.

    Between his diagnosis and now, Alex spent six-and-a-half years in a relationship, and said the possibility – however tiny – of transmitting HIV to his partner was a source of anxiety. “You’d be told it was very unlikely, or that it was only possible under certain circumstances like having an STI,” he said. “But you’re constantly worried about these caveats and you go through this worry together. Now we can say zero risk, which is just so much more empowering for people. It’s a huge weight off your shoulders.”

    Alex hopes the findings will help transform public attitudes about HIV, bringing them in line with medical evidence. “A lot of stigma is driven by fear of being exposed to HIV,” he said. “People still think you can get it from kissing and casual contact. If more people knew about this study, this would change.”

Global Efforts in COVID-19 Research
  1. Initial Study Start: February
  2. Research Team: Casanova's team, in collaboration with global clinicians
  3. Study Focus: Investigating severe COVID-19 cases in young people to identify underlying immune system weaknesses.
  4. Genomic Analysis Plan:
    • Scan patients' genomes, focusing on 13 genes involved in interferon immunity against influenza.
    • Interferon molecules act as the body’s defense system, detecting and responding to viruses and bacteria.
    • Previous discoveries showed mutations hindering interferon production and function, increasing vulnerability to pathogens.
  5. Study Progress:
    • Initial goal: Enroll 500 patients with severe COVID-19 worldwide.
    • By August, over 1,500 patients were enrolled; now more than 3,000.
    • Found harmful mutations in 23 out of 659 patients, affecting antiviral interferons.
  6. Key Findings:
    • Some patients with severe COVID-19 have auto-antibodies that attack interferon proteins.
    • 101 out of 987 patients with life-threatening COVID-19 had these auto-antibodies.
    • These antibodies block interferon action and were absent in patients with mild COVID-19 cases.
  7. Gender Findings:
    • 94% of patients with harmful auto-antibodies were men.
    • This finding offers an explanation for why men are more likely to develop severe COVID-19.
  8. Future Research Directions:
    • Investigate the genetic driver behind the auto-antibodies, potentially linked to X chromosome mutations.
    • Explore clinical trials to test treatments such as interferons not neutralized by the auto-antibodies or plasmapheresis to remove harmful antibodies.
  9. Additional Global Efforts:
    • The COVID Human Genetic Effort is looking for genetic factors that might be protective against COVID-19.
    • Recruiting people from households of patients with severe COVID-19 who were exposed but did not develop the disease.
    • "Our lab is currently running at full speed," says Casanova.

The department provides didactic teaching as well as practical training to different disciplines.

MBBS
  • Evaluation of the students in the form of MCQs, short answer questions, long answer questions, and case-oriented approach.
  • Emphasis on small group teaching which includes tutorials, seminars, group discussions, lecture demonstrations, and computer-based learning using software and PANABOARD.
  • Special coaching for academically backward students.
  • The innovative methods of teaching and sincere effort by the faculty have helped the students in achieving Distinctions in Biochemistry at University levels.
Teaching Hours Allotted to Human Biochemistry
Biochemistry Hours
Lectures 81
Practical 52
Tutorial 32
Lecture Demonstrations (LD) 36
Small Group Teaching (SGT) 26
AETCOM 5
Self-Directed Learning (SDL) 20
Educational and Clinical Exposure (ECE) 30
Students Seminar 2/year

Post Graduate (MD)

Activity Details
Lectures 82 per year
Journal Club 10 per year
Special Topic Presentation 10 per year
Microteaching Sessions 10 per year
PG Practical Twice per week
Seminars 2 per term

Integration

The knowledge acquired in biochemistry shall help the students to integrate molecular events with the structure and function of the human body in health and disease.

A total of 38 lectures for Biochemistry are integrated with the following subjects:

  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Pathology
  • General Medicine
  • OBGY (Obstetrics and Gynecology)
  • Pediatrics
  • Microbiology
Horizontal Integrated Teaching
Sr. No Topic Competency Name of the Department Name of the Faculty Date
1 Thyroid Gland BI 6.14 Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry Dr. A. D. Deshmukh 04/11/2022
2 Coronary Circulation & Applied Aspects BI 12.5 to BI 12.7 Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry Dr. Abhijit Pratap 25/04/2023

Sr. No. Name Designation Details of Achievements
1 Mrs. Anika Dwivedi Ph.D Student First in CME oral paper presentation at International CME on Biochemical Aspects of Yoga, T.S.M. Misra Medical College and Hospital, Lucknow, on 21 June 2023
2 Mrs. Shilpa Dhotre Ph.D Student First consolation prize in oral presentation at International CME
3 Dr. Sanesh Thorat Assistant Professor International Best Researcher Award at the Royal Research Conference (IISTA 23) on 28th October 2023 for research & excellence in Biochemistry


2021
# Name of the CME/Conference/Workshop Date Place Name of the Participant
1 Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International certificate of Excellence in Reviewing 8th Feb 2022 Online Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
2 All India Institute of Medical Science, Rajkot Symposium – Cellular & Molecular Biomarkers 14th May 2022 Online Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
3 Workshop IMPACT 2022 ‘Scientific Writing & Reviewing’ 15th-17th Sep. 2022 Online Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak

2022
# Name of the CME/Conference/Workshop Date Place Name of the Participant
1 CME ON Artificial Intelligence – Role in Health Care & Clinical Diagnostics 16th September 2022 MVJ Medical College & Research Hospital, Bangalore Dr. Umesh More, Dr. Sarita Shinde, Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Anita Deshmukh
2 Research Publication Workshop 14th -15th Oct. 2022 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak
3 CME : Advancement in Laboratory Sciences 18/11/2022 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak
4 Conference : 48th Annual Conference of ACBI 24th to 26th Nov. 2022 New Delhi, India Dr. Abhijit Pratap
5 Journal of Pharmaceutical Research International Certificate of Excellence in Reviewing 9th Feb 2023 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
6 Asian Journal of Medicine and Health 5th May 2023 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
7 International Journal of Biochemistry Research & Review 12th April 2023 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
8 Association of Medical Biochemists of India (AMBI) 25/04/2023 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak
9 Basic Course in Biomedical Research April 2023 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Shilpa Joshi
10 International CME - Biochemistry Aspects of Yoga 21/06/2023 Online, Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Umesh More, Dr. Shilpa Joshi, Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Anita Deshmukh, Mrs. Madhuri Jagtap, Mrs. Nidhi Purandare, Dr. Astha Goyal

2023
Sr. No. Name of the CME/Conference/Workshop Date Place Name of the Participant
1 CME – Unmasking the Unknown in ID 24/06/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak
2 CME- Laboratory Errors 30/06/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Umesh More, Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Shilpa Joshi, Dr. Astha Goyal
3 Webinar – Implementation of New Standards in Medical Laboratories 07/07/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Shilpa Joshi
4 Webinar- Automation in Bioprocessing National Webinar 19/07/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Shilpa Joshi
5 CME- Lets Decode ABG 03/08/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde, Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Shilpa Joshi
6 MGMIHS-RESEARCH MELA NIRCON-23 National Interdisciplinary Research Conference 02/09/2023 & 03/09/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Shilpa Joshi, Dr. Sandesh Thorat
7 Webinar- Hemoglobin Variants- A Case Based Approach 13/09/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Shilpa Joshi
8 49th ACBICON 2023 KERALA 14th to 16th September 2023 AI Saj Convention Centre, Kazhakkottam, Trivandrum Dr. Shilpa Joshi, Mrs. Madhuri Jagtap
9 FLUOROSIS : AN OVERVIEW National Webinar 11/10/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Shilpa Joshi
10 International Best Researcher Award 28/10/2023 Hotel Breeze Residency, India Dr. Sandesh Thorat
11 National Webinar Inborn Errors of Metabolism in the –OMICS era 11/12/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Sarita Shinde
12 CME Diagnostic Diversity of Markers in Oncology : An Update 20/12/2023 Online, Dr.D.Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune Dr. Pradnya Phalak, Dr. Anita Deshmukh, Dr. Arti Hajarnavis, Dr. Shilpa Joshi