IISER Bhopal Scientists identify circular RNA to help HIV treatment
This breakthrough research reveals how ‘ciTRAN,’ a circular RNA molecule, influences the virus's transcription process, which could potentially lead to novel therapeutic strategies against HIV-1
Researchers from Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal (IISER Bhopal) identified a specific circular RNA (circRNA) called ‘ciTRAN’, which plays a crucial role in multiplication of the AIDS-causing HIV-1 virus within the human body.
The RNA or Ribonucleic acid is a molecule in living cells that carries genetic information and helps in the production of proteins. RNAs are in general straight-chain, free-end structures but one form of RNA called ‘circRNA’ forms a closed-loop. The circRNA plays a pivotal role in regulating gene expression and is essential for various biological processes. Its role in HIV-1 replication has remained unclear for a long time.
Explaining the rationale for the study, Dr. Ajit Chande said, “Characterizing circular RNA can be tricky because it usually is less abundant, making it further challenging to detect in the native form. It is like trying to follow a complicated recipe. Additionally, when we look at RNAs during viral infections, there's so much information from the virus that it can make it hard to find the less common ones like circular RNA. So, we needed to devise different ways to spot these less common RNA molecules to understand their roles.”
Q: What is unique about IISER Bhopal?
Q: How is life at IISER Bhopal?
For students who are interested in Science and research, life at IISER Bhopal is incredibly enriching and satisfying. IISER Bhopal offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate Science and humanities programs, with a focus on merging Science teaching and research. The institute also features 9 academic departments and 3 centers of excellence where students can follow their interests and learn about different subjects.
Benefits of studying at IISER Bhopal are:
- You will get to interact with eminent faculty members who are experts in their respective domains and have published widely in reputed journals.
- You will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, such as laboratories, libraries, computer centers, etc.
- You will be exposed to cutting-edge research projects and collaborations with national and international institutions.
- You will have opportunities to participate in various events, workshops, seminars, conferences, etc., that enhance your skills and network.
- You will be part of a vibrant student community that organizes various cultural, sports, social, and academic activities throughout the year.
Q: What are people's opinions on IISER Bhopal for BSc?
IISER Bhopal is one of the best options to pursue BSc. It has great faculty that is always there to guide students. Infrasturcture at the college is great, with state of the art laboratories, a library with large collecion of books on different subjects. Students and especially, seniors are really great when it comes to proper guidance. IISER Bhopal has connections to most of the big research firms, helping students to secure good internships and placement.
Dr. Ajit Chande, the lead researcher further said, "Our results indicate that HIV-1 virus hijacks this host-encoded ciTRAN in such a way that it can use it to multiply efficiently. This discovery uncovers a previously unknown aspect of how viruses like HIV-1 overcome transmission barriers.”
Another important result from this research was that the researchers developed a small protein molecule that can inhibit viral transcription, in the context of virally-induced ciTRAN. By showing how ciTRAN promotes the virus's ability to multiply efficiently, this study offers promising avenues for the development of novel therapeutic interventions. Moreover, the creation of a molecule capable of inhibiting viral transcription represents a significant leap in our understanding of combating HIV-1 and potentially other viruses.
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Q: Is IISER Bhopal good for BSc?
IISER Bhopal is one of the top institutes of Science education and research in India. It offers a Bachelor of Science (BSc) programme in two streams: Engineering Sciences and Humanities and Social Sciences. The BSc is an intense five year fulltime programme, which provides a strong foundation for students in basic scientific and mathematical disciplines as well as exposure to areas of interest.
The admission to the BSc programme is based on the performance in the Joint Entrance Examination (Advanced) or the Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) for candidates with a valid fellowship.
The BSc programme at IISER Bhopal is designed to provide students with a high-quality education that prepares them for higher studies or careers in Science and engineering. The curriculum covers both theoretical and practical aspects of various subjects, as well as skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, teamwork, etc. The faculty members are highly qualified and experienced in their respective fields of research. The institute also has state-of-the-art facilities such as laboratories, libraries, computer centers, sports complex, etc.
Abhay an alumnus of IIMC and Delhi University, has over a decade long experience of reporting on various beats of journalism. During his free time he prefers listening to music or play indoor and outdoor games.
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IISER, Bhopal Bypass Road, Bhauri
Bhopal ( Madhya Pradesh)
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a month ago
The hostels at IISER Bhopal (Indian Institute of Science Education and Research) are equipped with various facilities to ensure the comfort of students. Specifically, when it comes to cooling facilities, here are the typical options that are available:
1. Air Conditioning (AC):
- Some hostels at IISER B
V
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 5 months ago
As many colleges require it for undergraduate programs, you can apply for admission based only on your CUET score. If you don't meet the CUET requirements, though, some schools offer management quota seats, which might let you in based on your performance on the entrance exam or your Class 12 grades
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 5 months ago
Here's a summary of the feedback from students and alumni:
* Infrastructure: The campus has good infrastructure, with modern facilities such as air-conditioned classrooms, laboratories, and a library with over 2 Lacs books.
* Facilities: The university offers amenitie
A
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 5 months ago
Based on the reviews from students and alumni, here's a summary of the key points:
Pros:
* Highly qualified and helpful professors
* Excellent research opportunities
* State-of-the-art infrastructure, including modern laboratories and high-speed Wi-Fi
* Good placement op
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Beginner-Level 1
Answered 7 months ago
All admissions are carried out centrally. IISERs admit students through a common application process and all candidates will be admitted through the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2024.
Admission Procedure:
Securing admission to IISER Bhopal requires successfully clearing the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) ex
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Contributor-Level 9
Answered 6 months ago
The comparison table given below compares the 2023 placement statistics of IISER Mohali, IISER Kolkata, IISER Pune, and IISER Bhopal:
| IISER Name | Total Students/ Students Placed (2023) | Median Package (2023) |
|---|---|---|
| IISER Mohali | 182/ 10 | INR 8.67 LPA |
| IISER Pune | 164/ 14 | INR 8.31 LPA |
| IISER Kolkata | 169/ 11 | INR 7 LPA |
| IISER Bhopal | 239/ 45 | INR 19 LPA |
NOTE: The placement statistics for all the IISERs mentioned above are from the NIRF report 2024 and are for UG (5-year) courses.
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered 7 months ago
IISER Bhopal offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses to the students. Candidates seeking admission to IISER Bhopal courses are required to fulfill the minimum eligibility criteria set by the college for the desired course. The fee for all the courses offered here ranges between
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Contributor-Level 9
Answered 7 months ago
On comparing IISER Bhopal and IISER Pune on the basis of their Fees, Placements, Cut Off, Reviews, Seats, Courses and other details, Shiksha has provided a basic comparative analysis. IISER Bhopal is rated 3.7 out of 5 by 7 genuine verified students at Shiksha. Established in 2008, IISER Bhopal is a
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Contributor-Level 10
IISER Bhopal is a unique institution in India that offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Science and humanities. It is one of the top five IISERs, which are autonomous research institutes funded by the Ministry of Education, Government of India. Some of the features that make IISER Bhopal unique are: