Biomedical Research Laboratory

Preclinical evaluation of plant materials and synthetic molecules

The Biomedical Research Laboratory at NAST is a multidisciplinary research center dedicated to boosting biomedical science through research in molecular biology, pharmacology, biotechnology, microbiology and related fields. We focus on disease mechanisms, drug discovery and translational research using both natural and synthetic approaches. Our goal is to generate innovative, evidence-based solutions to address key health challenges in Nepal and beyond. Our ongoing projects include systematic preclinical evaluation of novel plant-based and chemically synthesized multi-target antidiabetic and anti-obesity agents using experimental mice models

Engineering, production, purification and therapeutic evaluation of theranostic molecules

Recombinant molecules, including proteins, peptides and nucleic acids, are bioengineered products generated through recombinant DNA technology. The methodology involves inserting a target gene into a suitable host expression system (e.g., Escherichia coli, yeast or mammalian cells), followed by extraction, purification and biomedical evaluation of the expressed product. These molecules are revolutionizing modern medicine by enabling gene therapy, mRNA vaccines, targeted protein therapeutics and advanced diagnostic platforms. A notable example of this technological impact is the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, which demonstrated exceptional efficacy on a global scale. In Nepal, the long-term objective of our research is to establish and utilize recombinant technology for the development of locally relevant theranostic products, including anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents, antibodies, mRNA vaccines, and others.

Genetic disease management 

Thalassemia occurred due to defective synthesis of one of the two globin chains (α & β), that constitute adult hemoglobin. Mutation in the genes encoding α-globin chain causes α-thalassemia and mutation in genes encoding β-globin chain causes β-thalassemia. Thalassemia is the most commonly inherited genetic disorder. An estimated 300,000 – 400,000 children are born every year with severe hemoglobin disorders worldwide, and 80% of these births are in developing countries. Approximately 1.5% of the global population are heterozygotes or carriers of the thalassemia. Thalassemia is an emerging global health problem. Thalassemia is common in the malaria endemic regions of the Terai, Nepal. We aim to contribute in the management of Thalassemia.

Thalassemia is most prevalent genetic diseases in Nepal highly prevalent in Tharu ethnic communities. We are identifying mutations that cause Thalassemia in Tharu. Using mice as laboratory animal model, we will see - How these identified mutations affect mice? After knowing it, we can develop targeted therapies for Thalassemia.

Team members

1. Dr. Gan B. Bajracharya ([email protected])
2. Dr. Deegendra Khadka ([email protected])
3. Dr. Kul Raj Rai ([email protected])
4. Dr. Sushil Bhandari ([email protected])
5. Mr. Chhabi Raj Pahari ([email protected])