Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics (FGB)

Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics (FGB) at TDU is a pioneering hub for knowledge sharing, human resource development, education, and cutting-edge research in Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics. It bridges traditional and modern approaches, driving innovation through research and technology.

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Research Highlights:

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‍ FGB has been involved in impactful projects since its inception, focusing on genomics, plant diversity, and microbiome studies. Key projects include:

1. Genetic diversity assessment of Saraca asoca using genotyping by sequencing (2016-2017).
2. Elucidation of gall development in Pistacia integerrima through de-novo transcriptome sequencing (2016-2021).
3. Integrated genomics-assisted breeding for developing superior finger millet varieties (2017-2020).
4. Mastitis studies in dairy cattle (2020-2021).
5. Correlation between HLA and Prakriti types in bone marrow transplantation (2018-Ongoing).
6. Optimization of DNA fingerprinting for RET medicinal species (2018-2021).
7. Whole genome assembly and annotation of Saraca asoca and Tinospora cordifolia (2020).
8. Genomic resource database for 50 high-value medicinal plants in India (2018-2021).
9. Nutrition database integrating NIN, FSSAI, and Ayurveda data AYURAHAAR Database (2021-Ongoing).
10. Food and Medicinal plants metabolomics and proteomics (2021-Ongoing).
11. Microbiome studies on human diversity and personalized nutrition (2021-Ongoing).
12. Human microbiome studies for healthy aging (2022-Ongoing).
13. Fermented Food microbiome and Soil microbiome (2022- Ongoing)
14. Studies of Rice germplasm - understanding the metabolomics of rhizosphere in treated and untreated varieties with Bacillus subtilis

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Education and Outreach Programs:

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1. M.Sc. by Research (Biological Sciences):
   
   • Specialization in Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics.
   • Focus on research-oriented learning with dedicated projects.
   • Student projects include: a. 'Know Your Pedigree' - A web tool for tracing genetic inheritance. b. Whole genome sequencing and marker development for Saraca asoca.
2. PG Diploma in Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics (PGD FGB):
   
   • Industry-ready training with practical exposure.
   • Skill-enhancing curriculum bridging education and industry.
3. Ph.D. Programs:
   
   • Opportunities for doctoral research in Functional Genomics and Bioinformatics under FGB faculty.

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• Key Ph.D. research topics: 
• Molecular mechanisms of gall formation using multi-omics. 
• Genetic diversity and root microbiome studies of Aconitum species.
• A tale of two X chromosomes: Investigation of molecular and evolutionary link of X Chromosome upregulation vs X chromosome inactivation in mouse early development 
• Assessing Gut Microbiota Diversity in Polyphenol Metabolism for Improved Absorption and Bioavailability with Polyphenol-Enriched Prebiotic Foods
• Integrated Strategies for Formulation Design and Development of BCS Class II & IV Drugs: From Computational Modeling to Experimental Validation
• Metagenomic Profiling and Geospatial Distribution of Leptospira Serovars in Endemic Coastal Regions
• Meta-Pan-Transcriptomics Approach for Identification of Leptospira Potential Biomarkers (Proteins/RNA) for Development of Diagnostics for Chronic/Acute Leptospirosis.
• Serotyping and Genotyping of Classical swine fever virus isolates from Different regions of India
• Standardization of Multiplex qPCR for Simultaneous Detection of Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV) and African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) and Development of a Recombinant protein Based ELISA Assay for Classical Swine Fever virus Specific Detection.
• Exploring the Immunogenic and Genomic Landscape of Bluetongue Virus Serotype-9: Insights from Monoclonal Antibody Production, Whole Genome Sequencing, Monoclonal Antibody-Resistant Mutant Studies, B-Cell Epitope Mapping, and Bioinformatics Analysis"
• Functional genomics of Ficus religiosa and its health effects. 
• Transcriptome analysis of aromatic rice. 
• Role of transposable elements in rice disease resistance.
• Dengue Virus membrane fusion: Molecular mechanism and inhibitions
• Decoding of biopeptides in Seed Storage proteins in Sorghum and Finger Millets
• Biomarkers for ASD in kids with Gastrointestinal Symptoms using advanced computational algorithms
• Development and validation of Food Frequency questionnaire.

4. Training Programs:
   
   • 33 hands-on training programs covering Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) techniques and bioinformatics.
   • Over 600 + participants, including students and professionals, trained in genomics and data analysis.
   • Special programs, such as Crop Genomics Training (Finger Millet Genome Project) in collaboration with ICRISAT and the Government of Karnataka.
   • Online training programs during COVID-19 on genomics, bioinformatics, and scripting languages.

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Milestone Events:

• National Symposiums on Functional Genomics (2017-present).
• Workshops on WGS, Transcriptome, and Metagenome analysis.
• Crop Genomics Training Programs (2019).

FGB continues to lead innovation in genomics and bioinformatics, shaping the future of research and education.