Basic Science Researcher
Minnie Sarwal, MD, PhD
Email: SarwalM@cpmcri.orgProfessional Education
Ph.D.: Cambridge University, Molecular Genetics (1995)
M.R.C.P.: Royal College of Physicians, UK (1990)
D.C.H.: University of London, UK, Pediatrics (1989)
M.B.B.S.: Calcutta Medical College, Surgery, Obstetrics/Gynecology (1985)
I.S.C.: La Martiniere, Calcutta, India (1981)
Current Research Interests | Publications
Current Research Interests
Dr. Sarwal's lab focuses on translational research into the molecular and immunological basis of transplant dysfunction. Using competitive quantitaive RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, granulysin was identified as a novel peripheral blood marker for transplant rejection, and its distribution in tissue defined steroid resistance or sensitivity. Prospective screening studies are underway to define this as a predictive assay for subclinical rejection.
cDNA Microarray analysis is being conducted on blood and tissue specimens in patients undergoing steroid based and a novel steroid free immunosuppression protocol (designed by Drs Sarwal and Salvatierra at Stanford). Samples are simultaeously hybridized to 23,000 human cDNA's (with about 40% of these cDNA's being unidentified novel genes) in collaboration with Dr. Pat Brown at Stanford.
New mecahnisms and genes are being identified for acute rejection, chronic rejection and drug nephrotoxicity. This information may allow for clearer differentiation between these varying causes of transplant dysfunction, without biopsy analysis and also offer means to individualizing immunotherapy for transplant patients.
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Publications
Publications by Minnie Sarwal, MD, PhDOpens new window in PubMed.
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