Biospark Magazine '22

B OSPARK 2 22 The Annual Magazine of Department of Biochemistry (July 2021- Dec 2022) UNIVERSITY OF DELHI DESHBANDHU COLLEGE

Students and faculty members have contributed in varying capacities, in order to make this magazine a reality. The editorial team would like to thank each and every one of the contributors for their enthusiasm towards this edition of the departmental magazine. We hope you will enjoy reading this edition of Biospark magazine as much as we enjoyed compiling it. Editor's Note Editorial Team and Credits Cover Page Illustration Front Cover Illustration: Muskan Agarwal (2019-22), Winner of Biospark '22 Magazine Cover Designing Competition Article Collection and Proofreading Amritaparna Maity Anushka Raina Lavanya Arora Barha Sajid Layout, Designing and Compilation Aayush Goel Aniket Singh Sinthia Mondal Pranamya Faculty Editorial Team Dr. Kamana Singh Dr. Vineeta Kashyap Dr. Vanshika Bhatia Dr. Prabha Arya Dr. Astha Giri Dr. Naresh Kumar Back Cover Illustration: Afaf Salim (2019-22), Participant of Biospark '22 Magazine Cover Designing Competition

We are grateful to Mrs. Nirmal Sud & Mr. Gian Parkash Sud for their endearing support towards the BIOSPARK MAGAZINE

Message from the Principal Message from the Teacher-in-Charge Words of Encouragement Section 1: Evolving Science ..Scientific articles Section 2: Pinnacle.. Student Achievements Section 3: Reverie..Non-Scientific articles Section 4: Reminiscence..Departmental Activities Section 5:Pièce de résistance...Creative corner Section 6: Imperio .....Alumni Meet the Editorial Board "Idealism, however impractical, gives a meaning to our existence". - SN BOS E

Itismatter of delightthattheDepartment of Biochemistry,Deshbandhu Collegeis releasing its AnnualDepartmentalMagazine,“BIOSPARK’22” on 31stJanuary, ‘23. As a tradition ofthe department,the annualmagazine‘Biospark’ provides a platform to thestudents and staffto portray theirliterary aswell as artistictalent and achievementsin the academic year preceding the year of publication. Itis an attempt by the departmentto promoteskills ofediting,writing and scientificcommunication amongststudents and Iwould liketo congratulatethefacultymembersforthis initiative.Hopethereaderswill also acknowledgethisendeavour ofthe teachersin bringing outthe best ofevery student and instilling in them a sense ofconfidenceto expressthemselves. IcongratulateDr. Kamana Singh andDr. AsthaGiri, Convener, Biospark’23,the members ofthe organising committee aswell astheeditorialteamand studentswho havetirelesslyworked to bring outthisedition ofthe BiosparkMagazine. Itakethis opportunity towish thestudents and facultymembers greatersuccess and goodhealth in the yearsto come. Message from the Principal Prof. Rajiv Aggarwal Deshbandhu College

Biospark-the amalgamation ofscience and cultureisthe Annual Academic Fest oftheDepartment of Biochemistry. Theseed forthesamewassown in early 90s,further nurtured yearwise,which then became a grown up plantin thesubsequent years by thejointeffort of allfaculty members. Itis amatter of great pleasure and prideto present our annual departmentalmagazine Biospark’ 22 on the occasion of Biospark’ 23 on 31stJanuary, 2023. Thetheme ofthe Biospark events held in 2022 wasself-reliance or Atmanirbharta. Beffiting to thistheme,thecover pageswereselected in a Cover page designing competition on thetopic“Role of Science and Technology in Atmanirbhar Bharat” held in January 2022. In-syncwith thetheme,thescientific articlesforthemagazinewere collected forthetopic“Indigenousstart-upsin biotechnology/lifesciences” andwe are happy to receive various articlesfromourstudents. Biospark 2023 is very unique asitmarksthefoundation of 70 years ofDBC and 100 years ofDelhi University. Itis also uniquein thesensethat besidestheinvited lectureseries and student activities, the Science CommunicationWorkshop is also opening up newhorizons, newvista forthestudents. I acknowledgemy sincerethanksto our principal, Prof. Rajiv Aggarwalfor hisconstant encouragement and support.My sincerethanksto our vice principal professor Kamal KumarGupta , IQAC coordinator andDBT Star Schemecoordinatorfortheir valuableco-operation My huge appreciation to allthefaculty members, ourteaching staff and allthestudentsfortheircooperation in bringing outthismagazine. Bestwishesto allthe organizers and participantsforthe grand success of Biospark 2023. Message from the Teacher-in-Charge Dr. Kamana Singh Deshbandhu College

I amvery happy to notethat Biospark 2023 isround thecorner.When itwasstarted in 1988, itwas amodestinter-college paperreading contest. It givesmeimmense pleasureto seethe Biospark growing and becoming better asthe years go bywithmoreeventswith enhanced creativecontent. Congratulationsto allthestudents and theteachersformaking it possible! Human inquisitivenessisthe breeding ground forinnovations and inventions. The objective ofthe Biospark isto ignitethespirit ofenquiry by encouraging independent reading,writing, discussion, and debateto help learn the advancesin sciences in general and biochemistry, in particular. Wishing you all a very successful Biospark 2023 and looking forward tomeeting sometimethe budding scientists ofthefuture. Words of Encouragement Dr. Mira Kushal Deshbandhu College

SECTION 1 "Build a strong base. The journey to peaks of excellence requires a strong base camp." -CNR RAO "Sc i entifi c r e v i e w s and ar ti c l e s by s c i enc e afi c ionados of the Depar tment of B iochemi s t r y "

Scope of Biotechnology in India Dr. Kamana Singh, Teacher-In-Charge, Department of Biochemistry The importance of biotechnology has increased due to the manner that times are changing. Whether it be food and lifestyle or well-being, it is providing everything that is vital to us and the larger environment new dimensions. According to a recent estimate by Grand View Research, Inc., the global biotech business is expected to reach USD 727.1 billion by 2025. In contrast, it is anticipated that the Indian biotech sector would grow dramatically in the future years, necessitating the hiring of millions of qualified specialists. With major emphasis on applications to the environment, drugs, vaccines, including a variety of biopharmaceuticals, diagnostics, transgenic crops, improved tools for improving animal reproduction and quality, beneficial microbes, and food ingredients, biotechnology has impacted every corner of the globe. Molecular modelling, genomics, bio-informatics, biosimulation, clinical information, and many more disciplines are included in the term "biotechnology," which refers to the merger of biology and technology. A few of the products produced by biotechnology around the world include useful microbes, food ingredients, a variety of pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, transgenic foods and field crops with desired field and quality characteristics, improved tools for improving animal reproduction and quality, and transgenic foods and field crops (BT). Twenty thousand resource persons are employed by India's biotech industry, which accounts for around 2% of the global biotech market. India now has a greater capacity to contribute to this industry, but even with the required labour, resources, and infrastructure, it still has to put more effort into developing the system by providing finance options, venture capitalists, bionetworking, and IP development. The potential for technology-led exports and technology exports to provide value is being maximised through government efforts. As a result, the nation's capacity and facility networking have substantially increased. Developed nations with cutting-edge technology, great scientists, and healthy economies are in charge of the biotechnology sector, among other things. India, which ranks third in Asia for foreign direct investments (FDIs) in biotechnology behind Japan and Korea, is beginning to get the interest of global companies in the current climate. There are considerable opportunities for the growth of biotechnology in the region, particularly in the agriculture and healthcare sectors, because of the vast present and developing markets for food products and medications for the growing population. The country has a competitive advantage over other countries thanks to its large, reasonably priced pool of scientific manpower, wealthy R&D institutions, academically excellent biological centres, etc. In addition to the aforementioned, it is believed that India's human resource, which includes 3 million graduates, 700,000 postgraduates, 1,500 PhDs, and a sizable English-speaking talent pool, is the industry's biggest edge. The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors employ 10% and 15%, respectively, of researchers and scientists in the USA. According to the latest data collected by Kumar et al, under given is the scene of the Indian Biotech Industry: 1) The top 20 companies of India contributed almost 20% towards the total biotech earned revenue. 2) The bio-pharma sector accounted for around 62% of the market share, with revenues touching Rs. 8,829 crores growing 12% over 2008-2010 3) The bio-industrial sector achieved revenues worth Rs. 564 crores growing 16% in 2009- 2010. 4) The bio-services, comprising of clinical research, contract research and contrast manufacturing accounted for 31% with Rs.2,639 crores. 5) The agriculture biotech sector climbed 37% thus accounting for 1936 crores. The number of companies involved in selling Bt cotton seeds have increased to 30 in which Nuziveedu seeds has highest contribution followed by Rasi Seeds, Mahyco and Mosanto. India led the IT revolution before shifting its attention to biotechnology. India is well-positioned to become a significant participant on the international biotech scene because to the country's large reservoir of scientific talent, elite information technology sector, and growing generic pharmaceutical industry. India

makes up only around 2% of the global biotech market right now, but the future seems quite bright for the nation. The biotechnology sector in India is expanding significantly. If India aspires to be a worldwide leader in the sector, it should engage with top biotechnology research institutions. The US's top institutions get funds from the sector to do research towards the development of biotechnology products. India ought to encourage the growth of autonomous, for-profit research institutions. Clearly, Biotechnology in India can flourish if the red tapes can be taken care of properly with the help of proper strategies both at the professional and business level with Government’s aid. References: 1) Abhishek, K., & Lav, S. (2012). Biotechnology industry in India: Opportunities or challenges. In African Journal of Business Management (Vol. 6, Issue 44, pp. 10834–10839). Academic Journals. https://doi.org/10.5897/ajbm10.1236 2) Alok KS(2011). Biotechnology: The New Horizon for Indian Leadership, VSRD Technical and Non Technical Journal, 2(3):144-159. CanAssist-BREAST: An Oncostemcreated Immunohistochemistry-Based Prognostic Test for Breast Cancer Patients Asif Shafi Lone, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry Adjuvant chemotherapy only helps a less proportion (about 15%) of people with early-stage breast cancer. The complicated process of identifying individuals who might benefit from adjuvant chemotherapy and who are at elevated risk for distant relapse depends on the tumor biology and clinical, and pathological factors. Quantitative gene expression-based platforms are used by the majority of tests that are currently available to determine the likelihood of a distant relapse of breast cancer. These tests are pricy and necessitate specialist lab equipment. Manjiri Bakre established Oncostem in 2011. A cancer therapy firm called Oncostem provides cutting-edge prognostic & preventative treatments. CanAssist Breast, the company's main product, is a predictive test for patients with early-stage breast cancer that offers crucial information regarding breast tumours as well as the advantages and disadvantages of hormone therapy and chemotherapy. It is developing testing for ovarian and oral cancers, among other types of cancer. Artiman Ventures has contributed $7 million to Oncostem Diagnostic. The CanAssist-Breast (CAB) test, created and validated by Oncostem, employs immunohistochemistry (IHC), a cost-effective gold standard approach, together with important clinicopathological parameters to assess the likelihood of distant recurrence in early-stage HR+ breast cancer. The expression levels of five important biomarkers (CD44, N-cadherin, pan-cadherin, ABCC4, and ABCC11) and three clinicopathological prognostic indicators (tumour size, tumour grade, and node status) are analysed using an IHC method by CAB to produce a "CAB-Risk Score." According to their "CAB Risk Score," patients are categorised into two groups based on how likely they are to experience a distant recurrence. The chosen biomarkers stand out from other proliferation- and gene expression-based prognostic signatures because they exhibit the characteristics of cancer. In a nutshell, these five biomarkers play a critical role in the emergence of cancer, and drug resistance leads to cancer recurrence. Cadherins support the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), CD44 is a marker for stem cells, and ABCC4 and ABCC11 are ATP-binding cassette transporter proteins implicated in drug efflux that results in drug resistance. Depending on their "CAB Risk Score," patients are either considered to be at low or high risk for distant recurrence.

Fig. 1 describes the CAB test's steps in detail. IHC staining for CAB biomarkers is followed by an initial sample quality evaluation of the tumour sample using Haemotoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining. A machine learning-based statistical algorithm generates a risk score with a cut-off of 15.5 and a range from 0 to 100 using the patient's clinical data and the IHC gradings of the CAB biomarkers. If a patient's risk score is below the cut-off, they are categorised as having a "low risk" of recurrence, and if it is over the cut-off, they are categorised as having a "high risk" of recurrence. CanAssist-Breast, an Immunohistochemistry-based multi-marker test, has been conclusively demonstrated to be robust across several repeatability and reproducibility variables tested. Making it a precise, dependable, and prognostic test to grade patients with early-stage HR+ breast cancer into low- or high-risk for distant relapse. References: 1. Attuluri, A. K., Serkad, C. P. V., Gunda, A., Ramkumar, C., Basavaraj, C., Buturovic, L., Madhav, L., Naidu, N., Krishnamurthy, N., Prathima, R., Kanaldekar, S., & Bakre, M. M. (2019). Analytical validation of CanAssistBreast: an immunohistochemistry based prognostic test for hormone receptor positive breast cancer patients. In BMC Cancer (Vol. 19, Issue 1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12885- 019-5443-5 2. Ramkumar, C., Buturovic, L., Malpani, S., Kumar Attuluri, A., Basavaraj, C., Prakash, C., Madhav, L., Doval, D. C., Mehta, A., & Bakre, M. M. (2018). Development of a Novel Proteomic Risk-Classifier for Prognostication of Patients With Early-Stage Hormone Receptor–Positive Breast Cancer. In Biomarker Insights (Vol. 13, p. 117727191878910). SAGE Publications. https://doi.org/10.1177/1177271918789100 Orna therapeutics Aniket, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry Orna Therapeutics is a company developed by MPM Capital and BioImpact Capital, an associate of MPM that specialises in investment management, based on research by MIT professors Alex Wesselhoeft, Ph.D., and Daniel G. Anderson, Ph.D. Year founded - 2019 Location - Cambridge, MA Orna Therapeutics is a cutting-edge biotechnology business that is abandoning linear thinking in order to develop completely tailored oRNA circular RNAs, a brand-new class of RNA medications that are set to revolutionise the way we treat disease. These medicines can achieve the full potential of RNA. Exclusive circular RNA from Orna (oRNA) is designed as self-circularizing linear RNA. oRNA transforms a line into a circular, which has several benefits over conventional linear mRNA treatments, including streamlined synthesis, higher protein expression, and an improved immunogenicity profile. Because of its circular form, oRNA is more stable and resistant to degradation, which can lengthen the time that its effects last. Additionally, oRNA can be produced more easily and efficiently than traditional linear mRNA therapies, which can decrease the cost of production and increase the availability of therapies.

One of the key advantages of oRNA is its ability to increase protein expression. The circular structure of oRNA allows it to bind to specific proteins that can increase the translation of the RNA into proteins. This can lead to increased production of the desired protein, which can lead to better therapeutic effects. The superior immunogenicity profile of oRNA is also a major advantage. The circular structure of oRNA allows it to be less recognized by the immune system, which can lead to fewer side effects and a better safety profile. This can be especially beneficial for therapies that are designed to be delivered directly to the patient's immune cells. Our innovations increase the potential of RNA treatments by using unique lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), such as those from Orna's joint venture with RNA delivery startup ReNEgade Therapeutics. We are developing the next major development in RNA treatments by combining the potency of oRNA with improved delivery methods. A wide range of disorders, including cancer, regenerative medicine, protein replacement, infectious diseases, and autoimmune, can be treated with Orna's technology. Chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) are delivered directly to a patient's immune cells using the lead program's in situ CAR treatment, which combines oRNA molecules with exclusive lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) (is CARTM therapy). Utilizing the patient's own immune system to target and kill cancer cells is how this therapy works to cure cancer. The capacity of the patient's immune cells to identify and target the cancer cells can be improved by the oRNA molecules, which are made to attach to specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells. In conclusion, Orna Therapeutics is a biotechnology company that is pioneering the next breakthrough in RNA therapeutics. The business is developing a brand-new class of RNA therapies using its own circular RNA (oRNA), which has the potential to unleash the full power of RNA and revolutionise the way we approach disease. Over conventional linear mRNA therapeutics, oRNA has several benefits, including easier manufacturing, more protein expression, and a better immunogenicity profile. The technology developed by Orna offers a wide range of applications in a variety of disease areas, and the company's flagship development is an in situ CAR therapy that has the potential to completely transform the way cancer is treated. Orna Therapeutics is ready to transform healthcare with their oRNA and LNPs technologies. References: 1. Orna Therapeutics: circular logic. (2022, August 5). Nature. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41587- 022-00005- 1?error=cookies_not_supported&code=1b13 7b59-71f2-45a3-aef8-004d90855458 Eyecyte-RPE and Eyecyte-PRP cells: A Breakthrough Research treating Agerelated Macular Degeneration Amritaparna Maity, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the main factor contributing to adult blindness worldwide in those over 60. In terms of clinical progression, this ailment starts with a blurring of the central vision and eventually results in legal blindness. Loss of eyesight has a significant impact on quality of life and comes at a hefty financial expense. Additionally, RPE and the light-sensitive photoreceptors that it maintains, shields, and nourishes are lost as a result of AMD, a challenging and advanced neurodegenerative disorder. There is presently no cure for dry AMD, the most common kind of eye disease. A novel approach to treating AMD involves implanting RPE cells made from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in the outer retina. Eyestem founded by Dr. Jogin Desai is a cell therapy company based in Bengaluru, Karnataka,India. Eyecyte-RPE and Eyecyte-PRP cells are developed by Eyestem which replaces lost retinal pigment epithelium cells. It is intended to stop vision loss in individuals who are experiencing the early stages of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and restore sight to those who are experiencing the later stages. The allogenic medication is injected beneath the retina. The first human application is anticipated to launch in Q4 2022. They developed a unified GMP-compliant technology by precisely recreating key retinogenesis phases for the generation of RPE and photoreceptor progenitors (PRP) from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC). After freeze-thaw, de novo produced RPE

and PRP were thoroughly characterised to confirm their identity, purity, and potency. To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of cryopreserved RPe and PRP-cell-based products after subretinal injections, PCS rats and NOD-SCID rd1 mice, respectively, were employed. As a result, RPE (Eyecyte-RPE) and PRP(EyecytePRP) expressed tight junction proteins, pigmentation as well as ciliation markers and neuro-retinal proteins and cone/rod markers respectively. While PRP reacted to polarisation caused by KCL, RPE released polarization-related growth factors (VEGF/PEDF). The results of mRNA sequencing showed that mature retinal tissue has the expected molecular signature and lacks markers from undesirable lineages. Optokinetic tracking and photoreceptor rescue demonstrated the recovery of visual function in rats with RCS who received RPE transplants. PRP transplantation improved visual perception in NOD-SCID rd1 mice as demonstrated by light-dark test and OKT findings; positive ERG data revealed functioning photoreceptor activity in host ONL. No animal had teratoma development or any other ectopic growth in the eye. This was the first instance of a scalable, unified GMPcompliant methodology that demonstrated both AMD and RP's outstanding animal effectiveness and safety evidence. These results gave strong proof-of-principle evidence that these prospective allogenic cell treatments for AMD and RP patients may work, enabling research that could be funded through INDs. References: 1. Surendran, H., Rathod, R. J., & Pal, R. (2018). Generation of Transplantable Retinal Pigmented Epithelial (RPE) Cells for Treatment of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). In Stem Cells and Aging (pp. 283–298). Springer New York. https://doi.org/10.1007/7651_2018_140 2. Rajarshi Pal, Harshini Surendran, Swapna Nandakumar, Vijay Bhaskar Reddy Konala, Sushma Nanjunda Swamy, Rajani Battu, Trevor J McGill, Pramod Kumar Upadhyay; Transplantation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptor progenitors (PRP) generated through a xeno-free unified protocol showed improved visual sensitivity in two rodent models. Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 2020;61(7):2290. Strand Life Sciences: A Dynamic Indian Startup Aniruddha Ghosh , 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry India has a rapidly growing biotechnology industry, with several start-ups emerging in recent years. These companies are working on a wide range of innovative products and technologies, from developing new drugs and medical devices to creating sustainable agricultural solutions. Indian start-ups in the field of biotechnology are making significant contributions to the country's healthcare sector. These companies are developing innovative solutions in diagnostics, therapeutics, and medical devices. A promising Indian start-up in the biotechnology space is Strand Life Sciences, which offers various genomics-based diagnostic and research services. The company has developed a range of genetic cancer tests and inherited diseases and is also working on developing personalized medicine solutions. Strand Life Sciences is a genomics and bioinformatics company based in India. They provide a range of services including DNA sequencing, genetic testing, and bioinformatics analysis to researchers, healthcare providers, and biotechnology companies. Their research focuses on developing new technologies and methods for analyzing large-scale genomic data, aiming to improve the diagnosis and treatment of genetic diseases. They also work on developing precision medicine solutions for cancer and other diseases. Strand Life Sciences has raised a total of $13M in funding over 2 rounds. Their latest funding was introduced on Feb 8, 2018, from a Private Equity round. 4 investors fund Strand Life Sciences. Quadria Capital and Heritas Venture Fund are the most recent investors Strand Life Sciences have acquired 2 organizations. Their most recent acquisition was Quest Diagnostics India Pvt. Ltd. on Oct 9, 2018. DNA sequencing can help diagnose potential diseases by identifying genetic variations or mutations that are associated with specific conditions. For example, mutations in certain genes have been linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer. By sequencing a person's DNA, doctors can identify these mutations and use the information to make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan. Additionally, DNA sequencing can also be used to identify genetic variations that may impact a person's response to certain medications. DNA sequencing can also be used to screen for inherited genetic risks for certain diseases, such as cancer or cardiovascular disease. This allows for early detection and intervention, which can improve patient outcomes. This information can be used to tailor a treatment plan to an individual's

unique genetic makeup, which can help to improve treatment outcomes. Patients genomic analysis and creation of an overall profile using techniques such as advanced visualization, predictive systems modeling, data integration, and scientific context management components to transform raw data into actionable insights. This remains the core of strand life sciences which also opens up a door to a whole new area of precision medicine. Precision medicine is an approach to medical treatment that uses genetic and other molecular information to tailor treatments to individual patients. The goal of precision medicine is to improve patient outcomes by providing more effective and targeted treatments while reducing the risk of side effects. Some of the benefits of precision medicine include: Increased effectiveness of treatments: By identifying the specific genetic or molecular drivers of a disease, precision medicine can help doctors select the most effective treatments for individual patients. Reduced side effects: Because precision medicine treatments are tailored to the specific characteristics of a patient's disease, they are less likely to cause unwanted side effects. Reduced costs: By improving the effectiveness of treatments and reducing the need for trial-and-error approaches, precision medicine can help lower healthcare costs. Improved patient outcomes: By providing more effective and targeted treatments, precision medicine can help improve patient outcomes and quality of life. Personalized healthcare: By understanding the genetics and molecular profile of a patient, precision medicine can help in understanding the disease and providing more personalized healthcare. References: 1. Strand Life Sciences - Crunchbase Company Profile & Funding. (n.d.). Crunchbase. https://www.crunchbase.com/organ ization/strand-life-sciences First-in-India Industry CD19-Directed CAR-T Cell Therapy Aayush Goel, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy is a type of immunotherapy that modifies the immune system of a cancer patient to increase its capacity for spotting and eliminating cancer cells. Humans have a very complex immune system that involves many different types of cells and bodily functions. The CAR T-cell therapy instructs T cells to target an antigen, which is a molecule that the body views as hazardous and is present on the surface of certain cancer cells. T cells are manufactured with a protein that helps them concentrate by being added to their surface. Known as a chimeric antigen receptor, this protein (CAR). Three proteins make up this CAR protein: one that recognises cancer cell antigens and two that tell the T cell to activate in response to the first protein binding to an antigen on the cancer cell. A T cell with a CAR attached to it is referred to as a "CAR T cell." CAR T cells work by floating around the body and looking for cells that carry the antigen programmed into the CAR protein, like certain cancer cells. Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell treatment has great potential for individuals who can put up with the side effects. Cost is without a doubt a significant barrier. Richard Sullivan (Institute of Cancer Policy, King's College London, London, UK) stated that "CAR T-cell therapy does not count as an important or cost-effective treatment for emerging economies." The same choice will undoubtedly be made by policymakers in low-income countries, who will then entrust CAR T-cell therapy largely to for-profit organisations, many of which will have resources for treating patients from less affluent backgrounds. India is one hypothetical example of how CAR T-cell therapy might be applied in low- and middle-income countries. Mukherjee, Mazumdar Shaw, and Kush Parmar founded the start-up Immuneel in 2018, with the stated objective of "dramatically enhancing access to innovative cell-based immunotherapies for cancer patients." An Indian startup called Immuneel was founded with the intention of providing India with cutting-edge immuno-oncology treatments that are both affordable and accessible ". Liquid cancers are a big health concern in India. With regard to CAR T-cell therapy, we hoped to use what we had discovered in bone marrow transplantation." Mohammad Shaw Immuneel

want to produce the cells. They are starting a clinical investigation after receiving permission for an antiCD19 CAR T-cell therapy. Immuneel Therapeutics, a biotech firm, has started patient dosing in the IMAGINE CAR-T study. Patients are now being enrolled in this phase II experiment, which is the first industry-sponsored CAR-T trial in India, at Narayana Hrudayalaya in Bengaluru. The IMAGINE research, which will include up to 24 adult and paediatric cancer patients, is funded by Immuneel. Technology transfer from the Hospital Clnic de Barcelona and Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi I Sunyer in Spain has given Immuneel the only right to create, produce, and market ARI-0001/IMN-003A (a CD-19 CAR-T cell therapy). ARI-0001 has been authorised by the Spanish Drug Agency (AEMPS), and the data that is now available compares favourably with American medications that have received FDA approval. Prior to it being unavailable in India, CAR-T therapies had shown hopeful results in patients who had tried every other form of therapy for a range of blood cancers. Given that these drugs are now sold for more than USD 350K per dosage on the global market, the IMAGINE research is the first step towards providing patients in India with affordable therapies of high clinical efficacy and global quality. References1. Burki T. K. (2021). CAR T-cell therapy rollout in low-income and middle-income countries. The Lancet. Haematology, 8(4), e252–e253. https://doi.org/10.1016/S2352- 3026(21)00068-5 2. Immuneel Therapeutics starts trials for CART cancer therapies. (n.d.). https://www.biospectrumindia.com/news/20/ 21460/immuneel-therapeutics-starts-trialsfor-car-t-cancer-therapies-.html Brand Around a Gland:Thyrocare Case Study Deepesh Joshi, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry From a landless farmer's son who came to Mumbai with only ₹500 to a billionaire who made an ₹3000 crore company by resigning from his comfort zone which was the BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Center) and investing his provident fund of ₹2 lakh in 1996 to bootstrap his medical disorders diagnostic startup named 'Thyrocare'. It initially started from two tests per day and now performs over 110 million tests annually. Not only this but he also became the CEO and CMD of the world's largest Thyroid testing laboratory worth Rs.3000 Crore in 2016. Yes, we are talking about Dr. A. Velumani and his company Thyrocare whose 66.1 percent stake was recently acquired by the health tech unicorn Pharm easy for Rs 4,546 crore. Let's take an insight into his unique Business model and its strategies : COGS (Cost of Goods Sold): -Before Thyrocare, other companies used to charge ₹500 for a thyroid test out of which ₹150 was reagent (raw material) cost , ₹150 was the company's expenses on floor, air conditioning, human resources etc and ₹200 was their margin or profit. However, Thyrocare disrupted the medical diagnostics market by charging ₹100 for a thyroid test despite the high reagent cost, wondering about the profits? This unique pricing was indeed the reason behind Thyrocare’s success, Thyrocare purchased 100 reagents for thyroid testing per month, each reagent costed ₹150 but if they purchased 5 million reagents per month the cost is reduced to ₹27 only and hence making a huge profit over their competitors. B2B (Business to Business) MODEL: According to Dr. Velumani B2C is the more profitable business model when a company is directly selling the product to the consumers but B2B is a more volumegenerating business model where a company can reach a large number of consumers and can negotiate the profits with the vendor, generally, it is less profitable but more reachable to expand branding. Other competitors of Thyrocare give a 15-20 percent margin to the collection centers but Thyrocare again broke this ritual and offered a 60 percent margin to the collection centers and took 40 percent for itself. This led to a decreased workload and increased demand for franchises across the globe. USP (Unique selling proposition): While Dr. Lal Path Labs and Healthians, two diagnostic companies, focused on pathology and acute illnesses including appendicitis, pneumonia, influenza, and strep throat, which arise abruptly, are accompanied by recognisable symptoms, and need urgent or short-term care. Thyrocare focused on biochemistry and chronic diseases, which are typically understood as conditions that last for a year or longer and need ongoing medical care or limit day-to-day activities, or both. Chronic

diseases including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease are the leading causes of death and disability. All of these factors contributed significantly to the goal of "Atmanirbhar Bharat" to provide better sickness diagnoses at affordable prices. References: 1. Srinivasan, S. S. A. (n.d.). Thyrocare: Disrupting the Indian Diagnostic Industry. https://www.isb.edu/en/research-thoughtleadership/research-centres-institutes/centrefor-learning-and-managementpractice/published-cases/thyrocare-- disrupting-the-indian-diagnosticindustry.html Biocon Keshav Kaushik, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry With barely Rs 10,000 in initial money, Kiran Majumdar-Shaw started the company in 1978 in the garage of her rental home in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Her youth, gender, and unproven business strategy caused her to first confront a lot of difficulties. Because the nation's biotech business infrastructure was lacking at the time, she had to deal with several technological issues. Within a year of its founding, her firm began exporting enzymes to the United States and numerous European nations, becoming the first Indian business to do so. The company's inaugural objective was the extraction of papain. The growth of Biocon was motivated by Mazumdarconviction Shaw's in "cheap invention." Currently, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other auto-immune diseases including psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are among Biocon's main research focus areas. Because so many individuals in India chew tobacco, the country is responsible for 86% of all oral cancer cases worldwide, also known as "cancer cheek" in local parlance. Diabetic is common, and those who don't wear shoes run the danger of having a minor cut or scrape turn into "diabetes foot," or gangrene. Psoriasis is a skin pigment disorder that Biocon is also developing medications to treat. The world's first Pichia-based recombinant human insulin, INSUGENR; the insulin analogue Glargine, BASALOG; and India's first locally made monoclonal antibody, BIOMab - EGFR, for head and neck cancer are some of Biocon's big breakthroughs. INSUGEN – R: The ability of insulin to connect to receptors on muscle and fat cells and to simultaneously restrict the liver's ability to release glucose are what cause it to drop blood sugar levels. An intensive care unit clinical trial treating 204 diabetic and 1344 non-diabetic patients with hyperglycemia (blood sugar above 10 mmol/l) before major surgery revealed that normoglycemia (blood sugar 4.4-6.1 mmol/l) induced by intravenous soluble insulin decreased mortality by 42% (8% versus 4.6%). Fast-acting insulin is INSUGEN-R. The action begins within a half-hour, peaks between 1.5 and 3.5 hours later, and lasts for up to 7 to 8 hours overall. BASALOG: Insulin, especially insulin glargine, regulates the metabolism of glucose as its main function. By encouraging peripheral glucose absorption, particularly by skeletal muscles and fat, and by limiting hepatic glucose synthesis, insulin and its analogues reduce blood glucose levels. Adipocyte lipolysis in the presence of insulin is inhibited, along with proteolysis and protein synthesis. BIOMAb – EGFR: The protein known as the human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), which is present on the surface of both healthy and malignant cells, is the target of the BIOMAb-EGFR. Epidermal Growth Factors (EGF), which are tiny proteins that circulate in the blood, interact with the EGFR. The binding action activates certain biological functions in the cell to facilitate regulated cell development. Patients who have squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck cancer and who have positive EGFR expression are advised to utilise BIOMAb-EGFR in conjunction with radiation treatment or chemotherapy. Reference: 1. Biocon launches BIOMAb-EGFR cancer drug. (n.d.). http://test.pharmabiz.com/news/bioco n-launches-biomab-egfr-cancer-drug35394 Biocon. (n.d.).https://www.biocon.com/docs/ domestic-marketpi/metabolics/BASALOG+ONE+PI. pdf

Gyrox- Gyrase: Topoisomerase Inhibitor Riddhi Bhardwaj, 2nd year , Department of Biochemistry CCAMP start-up Bugworks are collaborating with CARB-X to produce the next-generation broad spectrum antibiotics to combat some of the most resilient superbugs in existence. One of the few startups worldwide, Bugworks is tackling antimicrobial resistance, or AMR, through drug discovery and is currently in the clinical trial phase. They are developing a broad-spectrum antibiotic to target gramnegative bacteria that are multi-drug resistant and have been classified as serious and urgent infection concerns by the World Health Organization (WHO). Gyrox, a drug created by Bugworks, employs twopronged attack on the DNA synthesis machinery of the bacterium. It concurrently interferes with the functioning of two essential enzymes - the jab and the hook. Due to dual targeting action mechanism, it is extremely improbable that a bacterial cell will develop resistance to Gyrox. Additionally, compared to fluoroquinolone, the first medication to be prescribed in community-based practices and hospitals, Gyrox's binding location on the target is different. Both gram-positive and gramnegative bacteria are susceptible to the effects of fluoroquinolone, which interferes with bacterial DNA replication. According to reports, there is currently a very high level of fluoroquinolone resistance being seen, reaching up to 89% in India. Gyrox is a prefect drug candidate for resistant infections because it is effective despite pre-existing resistance to antibiotics like those in the fluoroquinolone family. Gyrox is designed to have a very low affinity for binding to efflux pumps, which results in very little efflux-mediated resistance. In other words, Gyrase-topoisomerase inhibitor, blocks two crucial targets in the replication machinery simultaneously and by -pass the bacteria's efflux resistance mechanism. With a low risk of individual developing drug resistance, Gyrox is being investigated as an injectable and oral treatment for infections that are resistant to several drugs. Bugworks' innovative broad-spectrum medicines have shown promise against dangerous Gram-negative superbugs in pre-clinical testing. Their medication will be the first antibiotic for Gram-negative bacteria since 1962 once it receives clinical approval. The antibiotics we have used to work well against a variety of Gram-negative bacteria collectively referred to as ESKAPE, including Klebsiella pneumoniae, E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, etc. ESKAPE can cause a variety of ailments, including pneumonia, UTI, intra-abdominal infections, sepsis, and more, most of these medications are no longer effective in treating ESKAPE due to rising anti-microbial resistance (AMR). References: 1. Bugworks. (2021, December 7). Our Science –. https://bugworksresearch.com/ourscience/ 2. C-CAMP Innovation Insights | CCAMP. (n.d.). https://www.ccamp.res.in/c-campinnovation-insights First efficient Indian RT-PCR Diagnostic Kit For the Presence of SARS-CoV 2 Virus Chiranjeeb Mohanty, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry Equine Biotech, a firm that has been incubated at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has created an indigenous RT-PCR diagnostic kit named "GlobalTM diagnostic kit"—the first RT-PCR COVID-19 testing kit manufactured in India—for precise and reasonably priced diagnosis of COVID-19. This kit was created by IISc-Utpal Tatu, a professor in the biochemistry department and the company's creator. With 30 years of expertise, Equine Biotech has worked on infectious disorders, including zoonotic infections. The foundation of the business is the idea of "One Health," which includes both human and animal health and wellness. It has created diagnostic tests in the past to check animals, particularly cattle and horses, for blood parasite disorders such trypanosomiasis, trichomoniasis, theileriosis, and babesiosis. The test kit uses Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), a method that confirms the presence of SARS-CoV-2, a virus whose genetic material is found in patient samples as RNA that is reverse-transcribed into complementary DNA before being amplified further. RT-PCR takes about 1.5 hours. With the aid of a fluorescent DNA-binding dye, the PCR reaction is then seen in real time, and the level

of fluorescence reveals the severity of the infection. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has authorised this test kit for use in COVID-19 diagnostic labs, and Equine Biotech has worked on coronavirus infection testing for many years, even before the COVID-19 pandemic began. The COVID-19 pandemic which has created havoc all over the globe has affected more than 30 million people and caused more than 9,00,000 deaths worldwide. India currently has the second highest number of reported cases, with more than five million people infected. So, ramping up testing in the country is crucial for tracking and controlling the spread of this infectious disease. As a result, India requires locally produced diagnostic kits that can be readily mass-produced and made available to a broader population. However, only a small number of Indian firms have so far created reliable and accurate RT-PCR kits; the majority of commonly used kits are expensive imports. Equine Biotech created a multiplex RT-PCR kit that is simple to use, sensitive, quick, and economical. It has 100% specificity, and when compared to other kits in the market, it runs very quickly. The test kit provides results more quickly than those already on the market, and the business is now looking to licence its new COVID-19 test kit and collaborate with med-tech businesses and industries to mass produce, sell, and distribute these kits. References: 1. Business News Today: Read Latest Business news, India Business News Live, Share Market & Economy News. (n.d.). The Economic Times. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/?from =mdr 2. SID. (n.d.). https://sid.iisc.ac.in India and Biotechnology Startups Anushka raina, 2nd Year, Department of biochemistry India's biotechnology startups have a big impact on the nation's economy and healthcare system. These biotechnology start-ups are notable for producing high-quality pharmaceuticals, improved diagnostic services, and other pharmaceutical products. The optimum outcome for raising public knowledge of health is what they strive towards. With the aid of these Indian entrepreneurs, the healthcare industry is improving its quality along with the advancement of technology. The biotechnology sector unquestionably had a significant increase during the epidemic. Along with taking their prescription medications, folks were lining up to learn more about daily vitamins and other potential minerals. This has made it possible for the biotech sector to take off and prosper worldwide, including in India. India is the third-largest biotechnology destination in Asia-Pacific and one of the top 12 biotechnology destinations worldwide. One of the most well-known biotechnology startups in India is Bharat Biotech. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Hyderabad, the company has made significant strides in the development of vaccines and biotherapeutics. In 2020, Bharat Biotech developed COVID-19 vaccine named Covaxin and got emergency use authorization from the Indian regulatory body. In addition to its work on COVID-19, the company is also focused on developing vaccines for other infectious diseases, such as chikungunya, dengue, and Zika. Another major player in the Indian biotechnology industry is Biocon. Founded in 1978, the company is India’s largest biotechnology company and is focused on developing and manufacturing biosimilars, which are lower-cost versions of biologic drugs. Biocon has a strong presence in the global market for these products, and it has partnerships with several major pharmaceutical companies to develop and commercialize biosimilars, hence helps in making biological drugs more affordable and accessible to the people who need them. Other notable biotechnology startups in India include Nanopore Technologies, which is developing a portable DNA sequencer. The device is a palm- sized, battery- powered device that can sequence DNA in under an hour, allowing for rapid and accurate diagnostic testing for a variety of applications, including disease diagnosis and genetic testing. This is a game changer in the field of diagnostics, as it allows quick and easy testing even in remote areas. Molbio Diagnostics is another startup that is focused on developing diagnostic tests for infectious diseases. The company has developed a diagnostic test for tuberculosis that is faster and more accurate than traditional tests, and is also working on tests for other diseases such as dengue and leptospirosis. This is crucial in the fight against infectious diseases, as early

detection and treatment can save lives and prevent further spread of the diseases. In addition to these startups there are also several incubators and accelerators in India that are working to support the growth of the biotechnology industry. For example, the biotechnology industry research assistance council (BIRAC) is a government-funded organization that provides funding for startups and SMEs. The government is also investing in the development of infrastructure, such as biotechnology parks and research centers, to support the growth of the industry. Similarly the Indian angel network has a biotech vertical which focuses on investing in biotech start-ups in India. This support is essential for these startups to grow and succeed, as it provides them with the resources and expertise they need to develop their products and bring them into the market. In conclusion, the biotechnology industry in India is a rapidly growing sector with many startups working to develop innovative solutions for healthcare and agriculture. These start-ups are utilizing cutting edge technology to develop affordable and accessible solutions that are making a significant impact on the lives of people in India and even around the world. With the increasing interest of the government, private sector and society in biotechnology, the future of the biotechnology industry in India looks quite promising. References: 1. How Indian biotech is driving innovation. (2019, January 24). Nature. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018- 07671- 9?error=cookies_not_supported&code=849bd91 4-fe5d-4544-9bf0-c938ab7e2024 2. Biotechnology Industry in India – Biotech Sector Analysis. (n.d.). Invest India. https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/biotechnology Utilising the Sea Saathi Santra, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry Sea6 energy is a seaweed based company founded by Nelson Vadassery, Sailaja Nori, Sowmya Balendiran, and Sayash Kumar along with the help of their professor, Shrikumar Suryanarayan. The company focusses on cultivating and processing tropical seaweed species using the cultivation meachanism called SeaCombine and convert them into environmental friendly products (biofuel) including agriculture, animal health, food ingredients, bioplastics and renewable chemicals. Usually seaweed based biofuels are derived from microalgae (technical term used for seaweed). Microalgae is a great source of biofuel. They grow in shallow ocean water and does not need land. This eradicates requirement of land for the production of eco-friendly products. Seaweed does not have lignin, and thus is easy to break. Thus, seaweed can replace fossil fuel, environment friendly and sustainable. Seaweed as a biofuel is highly advantageous but with advantages comes it’s limitations. Microalgae contains sugar which are broken down by enzymatic activity, for example, red seaweed has more than 50% dry weight as carbohydrate. Carbohydrate, being a galacto polymer requires enzyme to convert into monosaccharide. Once converted to sugar, alcohol production is very easy. For this, on 31 January 2012, Sea6 Energy signed a deal with Danish biotech company, Novozymes. The company is now looking forward for enzymes and fermenting strains that would lead to conversion of galacto polymer into monosaccharide under salty conditions. Initially, the cultivation was done by hands, above floating bamboo rafts in calm water. But for biofuel production, cultivation has to be done on very large scale that too in rough waters. Thus, the company required strong framework that will anchor the seaweed. To overcome this problem, the company utilizes bamboo rafts, create a strong mesh structure that can move easily at the vertices and would absorb stress easily. We all know that the nature is sufficient to fulfil our need but not our deed. The demand of energy is increasing day by day but the quantity of fossil fuels are decreasing as they require time to replenish. Thus, a source of clean biofuel is highly required to meet our daily requirements. Seaweed is a great source for this clean biofuel but again, if not utilize wisely we will run out of it to. References: 1. Business News Today: Read Latest Business news, India Business News Live, Share Market & Economy News. (n.d.). The Economic Times. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/

Indigenous Bio Sampling Collection Kit: m-WRAPR Anjishnu Chakraborty, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry The first biological transport and storage media developed in India is called m- WRAPR. It is particularly suitable for biobanks, research labs, and genomic sequencing facilities. The only molecular transport medium to be manufactured in India is mWRAPR, and it is the first to have quality standards that are on par with well-known foreign companies' sample stabilisation and transportation mediums, like Qiagen's Paxgene and Thermofisher's RNA Later. Azooka laboratories, situated in Bengaluru, has made headlines for introducing m-WRAPR, India's first indigenous bio sample kit. Azooka Labs is a start-up that the Indian Institute of Science's (IISc) society for innovation and development has nurtured. The proprietary fluorophore firm Azooka aims on creating cost-effective and secure biotech consumables. The main purposes served by India ’ s first biological transport and storage medium m-WRAPR are as follows :- Handling of biological samples for molecular analysis. Preserving all types of genetic content such as biological samples , like blood , body fluids , cells , saliva, tissues, microbiomes , and faecal tubes . The sample collecting kits utilised in India up until this point were not molecular grade. They were constructed of inexpensive, nutrient-based medium that was prone to contamination. The urgent necessity for a home-grown m-WRAPR medium resulted from the frequent requirement for PCR/RT-PCR testing. Additionally, m-WRAPR will be produced in India. It is a significant milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic since it advances India's goal of atmanirbhar bharat, or self-reliance. Additionally, it advertises India's "MAKE IN INDIA" campaign, inspiring others to follow suit. Last but not least, thanks to m-WRAPR, India can now locally produce media to preserve all kinds of genetic information, which was previously impossible due to supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic for sample storage and transit kits. India's access to materials for molecular diagnostics was further constrained by this. Due primarily to the increasing demand for testing during the COVID-19 pandemic, this supply squeeze has been felt acutely in the field of research. In India, m- WRAPR was introduced in February 2022. Azooka's RNA WRAPR got incubation-to-market bridging financing from Honeywell and Citigroup after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in order to produce a contamination-free COVID-19 viral transport medium that can be maintained at room temperature for up to a week. Bharat Biotech: India’s Leading Biotech Start-Up Parushi Verma, 1st Year, Department of Biochemistry One of the leading biotechnology business in India, Bharat Biotech, was established in 1992 by Dr. Krishna M. Ella and has since grown to rank among the most reputable biotech companies in the nation. Bharat Biotech is involved in drug research, drug development, and the production of medicines, vaccines, bio-therapeutics, and healthcare goods. The business continues to play a vital role in this quickly expanding industry and has made substantial contributions to the field of biotechnology. The first indigenous Covid-19 vaccine made in India, Covaxin, is one of Bharat Biotech's most remarkable successes. The vaccine has been developed and manufactured in India, giving Bharat Biotech a unique opportunity to lead the development of vaccines against future pandemics. With the success of Covaxin, Bharat Biotech has solidified its place as one of India’s top biotech companies and is an example of how innovation can be used to tackle global health problems. By developing Covaxin, Bharat Biotech has proven its commitment to protecting people from infectious diseases, and is poised to continue making a major contribution to the global fight against pandemics. The SARS-CoV-2 strain, which was identified at the NIV, an Indian virology research facility in Pune, was used to create the inactivated vaccine known as Covaxin. The SARS-CoV-2 strain has been rendered

inactive, thus the vaccine works by encouraging the immune system to create antibodies against it. Immunological stimulants (Alhydroxiquim-II), sometimes referred to as vaccine adjuvants, are used in conjunction with the vaccination to enhance the immune response and offer longer-lasting immunity. The inactivated virus is combined with the Alhydroxiquim-II adjuvant from Kansas-based ViroVax to create the vaccine candidate. Covaxin contains inactivated virus particles and the adjuvant, which help to provide a strong and sustained immune response. The vaccine is delivered as an intramuscular injection. By stimulating the body’s natural ability to fight off infections, Covaxin provides protection against SARS-CoV-2 and potentially other future pandemics. Moreover, since it does not require sub-zero storage or reconstitution and is available in multi-dose vials that are stable at 2℃ to 8℃, it is a convenient and safe option for vaccinating large populations.Covaxin has been instrumental in reducing the number of cases and hospitalizations from Covid-19 in India. 14 or more days after receiving dose 2, vaccine effectiveness against any severity type of COVID-19 was 78%. A 93% vaccination success rate against serious illness. Effectiveness ranged from 79% for people under the age of 60 to 68% for those over 60. These outstanding findings suggest that COVAXIN can aid in offering protection against the severe effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Dr Ella’s Bharat Biotech has made a significant contribution to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, through the development of their Covaxin vaccine. With its high efficacy and convenience of use, this innovative inactivated vaccine is well positioned to protect people from SARS-CoV-2 and future pandemics. Dr Ella’s leadership has been instrumental in making Bharat Biotech one of the world’s leading and most innovative companies in the field of biotechnology. Its success has positioned the company to continue making significant contributions to global health, by helping to protect people from infectious diseases. References: 1. COVAXIN - India’s First Indigenous Covid19 Vaccine | Bharat Biotech. (n.d.). https://www.bharatbiotech.com/covaxin.htm l Disclaimer: All the articles in this Departmental Magazine are for purely academic purpose and will not be reproduced in any Scientific or non-scientific Journal. They are adapted from various web and scientific sources and have undergone preliminary plagiarism check and editing. The students do not claim this work as their own under any circumstances. End of Section 1

SECTION 2 "Success can come to you by courageous devotion to the task lying in front of you." -CV RA M AN " C e l ebrating the v i c tor ious enthus ias t s of the Depar tment of B iochemi s t r y "

ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS THE HALL OF FAME TOPPERS OF BSC. (H.) BIOCHEMISTRY CLASS OF 2022 RANK 1 RANK 2 RANK 3 NIKITA BHAVYA MUSKAN AGGRAWAL CGPA: 9.35 CGPA: 9.13 CGPA: 9.0 CLASS OF 2023 RANK 1 RANK 2 RANK 3 AMRITAPARNA MAITY AAYUSH GOEL DEEPESH JOSHI CGPA: 9.1* CGPA: 8.68* CGPA: 8.61* CLASS OF 2024 RANK 1 RANK 2 RANK 3 MONIKA BHARDWAJ SHIVAM BHATNAGAR RIDDHI BHARDWAJ AND SATHI SANTRA CGPA: 9.14 CGPA: 8.91 CGPA: 8.82

THE NIRMAL GIAN PARKASH AWARD The department of Biochemistry started an award for meritorious students of the department in the year 2015. A cash prize of INR 5,000 as well as a certificate along with the medal is given to the final year student. This award not only acknowledges hard work throughout their graduation time, but also boosts their morale to succeed in life and achieve their goals. One of the retired faculty members of the Department, Dr . Mira Kushal, kindly donated the monetary fund to support this award in the name of her parents, Late Smt. Nirmal and Sh. Gian Parkash Sud. The Nirmal Gian Parkash Award for the year 2020-21, was conferred to Chetan Sharma of the batch 2018-2021. Chetan has been an all-rounder with keen interest in academics as well as departmental co-curricular activities. He has been a diligent student with a penchant for research and has actively participated in poster presentation competitions and innovative idea presentation during his course. Passionate about singing, Chetan has always had a lively persona and we wish he continues his journey towards excellence with the same zest. Wishing him the best in his future endeavours, the Department of Biochemistry feels proud to confer him with the Nirmal Gian Parkash Award!

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS: ACADEMIC Students are the strength of any academic institution. We feel proud that the students of our department excel in scientific and academic activities and bring laurels to our college. S.NO. NAME BATC H ACADEMIC AND RESEARCH ACTIVITY 01. Asif Shafi Lone 2020- 2023 Research Paper: 1) Kawoosa, F., Shah, Z. A., Masoodi, S. R., Amin, A., Rasool, R., Fazili, K. M., Dar, A. H., Lone, A., ul Bashir, S. (2022). Role of human organic cation transporter1 (OCT-1/SLC22A1) in modulating the response to metformin in patients with type 2 diabetes. In BMC Endocrine Disorders (Vol. 22, Issue 1). Springer Science and Business Media LLC. [https://doi.org/10.1186/s12902-022-01033-3] Review Paper: 1) Chattree, V., Singh, K., Singh, K., Goel, A., Maity, A., Lone, A. (2022). A comprehensive review on modulation of SIRT1 signalling pathways in the immune system of COVID-19 patients by phytotherapeutic melatonin and epigallocatechin-3- gallate. In Journal of Food Biochemistry. Wiley. [https://doi.org/10.1111/jfbc.14259] Internships: 1) Summer Internship, Immunobiology lab, University of Kashmir Srinagar, India June 2022 - August 2022 During the period of two months, I worked on” Expression of Tetranectin in various cancer cell lines.” 2) Internship, University of Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir, India Supervisor: Prof. Rais Qadri July 2021 - November 2021 I Worked on the Diosgenin to investigate its antineoplastic activity by utilizing various computational packages in computer aided drug design (CADD) and learnt various wet-lab skills like Basic animal cell culture techniques (culture of human cancer cell lines), Cytotoxic assays (MTT assay), Protein extraction, SDS PAGE, and Western blotting. 3) Internship, Nextgenhelper New Delhi Supervisor: Dr Mamta Gautam 01 May - 30 June 2021 Two-month internship in the area of “Bioinformatics, Genomics, Machine learning, and Big Data analysis” 4) Internship, University of Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir, India Supervisor: Prof. Rais Qadri January 2021 - May 2021 I Worked on the gene of Fibronectin and learnt various wet-lab skills like Bacterial cell culture, Preparation of competent cells, Plasmid isolation, Agarose gel electrophoresis, PCR, qPCR Posters/Presentations: 1) Poster Presentation entitled ”Inhibitors Of Matrix Metalloproteinases And Plasminogen As Adjuvant Therapy To Inhibit Tumor Invasion”in HEALTH 2021 Virtual International Conference “Cancer Biology: Advances and Challenges”. (12 November 2021) 2) Presentation on “Chimeric T-cell antigen therapy for COVID-19” as a part of Biospark’21 organized by Department of biochemistry, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi Workshops/courses:

1) Two-week hands-on training of “Bioinformatics, Genomics, Machine learning, and Network Biology (Bgmln)” organized by Nextgenhelpers, New Delhi 2) 17 days workshops on introduction to Linux environment, Metagenomics, RNAseq Analysis, and Pan genomics organized by DEcodeLIFE 3) Four days online hands-on workshop organized by Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi on “Research Methodologies” 4) 12 days workshops on introduction to Linux environment, RNAseq Analysis, Somatic Copy Number Alteration, Gene fusion discovery, and Pathway enrichment analysis organized by DEcodeLIFE 5) A short-term course with hands-on training on “Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) and Protein analysis” organized by the Indian Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University (IIT-BHU) 02. Amritaparna Maity 2020- 2023 Internship: 1)Summer Internship at CSIR-IGIB in Drug Delivery using polymer Nanoparticles treating Muscular Dystrophy 2) Online Internship in IIT-Indore in Drug Discovery Review Paper: 1) Chattree, V., Singh, K., Singh, K., Goel, A., Maity, A., Lone, A. (2022). A comprehensive review on modulation of SIRT1 signaling pathways in the immune system of COVID-19 patients by phytotherapeutic melatonin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate. In Journal of Food Biochemistry. Wiley. [https://doi.org/10.1111/jfbc.14259]. Poster/Presentations: 1) Innovative Idea Poster Presentation on Non-Viral gene Delivery system curing Retinoblastoma in Frontiers of Biomedical Research organized by ACBR,DU. 2) Poster Presentation entitled “Computational Pharmacokinetic and AMR Quantification of Antineoplastic Chemotherapeutic Doxorubicin for Treatment of Ovarian Cancer” in Antimicrobial Chemotherapy Conference 2022 organized by British Society of Antimicrobial. 3) Scientific Paper Presentation on “Intradermal Vaccines: A potential tool against battle against Covid-19” as a part of Biospark ’22 organised by Department of Biochemistry, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi and have been awarded the Second Prize. 4) Poster Presentation entitled” Combination of Doxorubicin and Topotecan along with N-acetylcystein as a potential treatment for Ovarian Cancer” in HEALTH 2021 Virtual International Conference “Cancer Biology: Advances and Challenges” and have been awarded the Best Poster of the Event organised by Department of Zoology, Deshbandhu College, University Of Delhi. 03. Keshav Kaushik 2020- 2023 Interships/Training: 1) Training on "Plant tissue culture & Industrial biotechnology & food biotechnology in JUIT, Waknaghat 04. Kanishk Singh 2020- 2023 Interships/Training: 1) Internship & Training on Cancer Biology (Breast & Ovarian), Cancer Epigenetics & Immunology at Department of Biochemistry, AIIMS New Delhi

Review Articles: 1) https://doi.org/10.1111/jfbc.14259 05. Mushabbar Ali 2020- 2023 Interships/Training: 1) Cell line (origin Urinary bladder),protein caspase8/9 and p53, and Molecular Biology mainly on DNA,Genomic Lab, Department of Bioscience,Jamia Millia Islamia. 06. Aayush Goel 2020- 2023 Review article: 1)https://doi.org/10.1111/jfbc.14259 07. Hitika 2020- 2023 Internships/Training: 1) culturing, maintenance and experimentation with drosophila melanogaster" at Shivaji college 2022 08. Anushka Raina 2021- 2024 Workshops: 1) participated in workshop on- COMPUTATIONAL GENOMICS FOR NGS DATA ANALYSIS: CONCEPTS, METHODS & APPLICATIONS (one week virtual international workshop-dated: 26th-30th November 2022) 09. Harvin Siag 2021- 2024 Workshops: 1) participated in workshop on- COMPUTATIONAL GENOMICS FOR NGS DATA ANALYSIS: CONCEPTS, METHODS & APPLICATIONS (one week virtual international workshop-dated: 26th-30th November 2022) 10. Siddharth Suresh 2021- 2024 Posters/Presentations: 1) Offline Poster presentation on -" Artificial Intelligence in Drug Discovery and Development: Recent advances and Future perspectives " at the 2nd International Conference on Natural Products On Human Health -2022. 11. Sinthia Mondal 2021- 2024 Workshops: 1) Attended one week workshop "Learn and Explore Model Organism" by Daulat Ram College, University of Delhi 12. Riddhi Bhardwaj 2021- 2024 Internships: 1) Internship in department of chemistry, du (VCIS)- ongoing

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS: EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Extracurricular activities are a way to channelize the unlimited potential in every student. Giving them an opportunity to explore areas and avenues across various fields like arts, sports, literature. It not just builds a sense of confidence, but quite often opens up a new career path for some! We are glad that our students excel in academics as well as extracurricular activities helping them to build an all-round personality. S.NO. NAME BATCH EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITY 01. Asif Shafi Lone 2020- 2023 1) Working with Redcross Badgam as Volunteer (January 2022 - Present) 02. Amritaparna Maity 2020- 2023 1) Data Management Coordinator at Placement Cell, Deshbandhu College, 2) Student Volunteer at Biochem Reconnoiter, the Journal Club of Department of Biochemistry, Deshbandhu College, DU. 3) Anchored in Lecture-cum-Virtual Lab Visit on “Microbiological Testing of Food” organized by Zoology Department, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, 4) Edited and Collated annual magazine “Biospark 21” viewed in International Webinar organized by Department of Biochemistry, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi. 04. Aniruddha Gosh 2020- 2023 1) Rank 1 Biospark 2022 Scientific Paper Presentation 05. Tanya Malhotra 2020- 2023 1) Rank 1 in Biospark 2022 intercollege quiz competition 06. Eshika Awana 2020- 2023 1) Rank 2 in Biospark 2022 intercollege quiz competition 07. Shimpolong Lkr 2020- 2023 1) Part of northeast cell group 08. Peeyush Yadav 2020- 2023 1) Secured first place in the Expression @2 competition held as a part of open days 2021 at CSIR-CCMB (dated: 25th September) 2) Rank 1 Biospark 2022 Scientific Paper presentation 09. Saloni 2020- 2023 1) Part of Riwayat- Indian dance society 10. Kanishk Singh 2020- 2023 1) Part of the QUIZZARDS-Quizzing society of Deshbandhu College. 11. Neha Sharma 2020- 2023 1) Rank 2 in NSS day dance competition 2) Part of Riwayat- Indian dance society 3) Part of NCC-Army Wing. 12. Sapna 2020- 2023 1) Rank 2 in Biospark 2022 intercollege quiz competition 13. Prabhat Kumar 2020- 2023 1) PFCA faculty Member 14. Anushka Raina 2021- 2024 1) volunteered in 2nd International Conference on Natural Products and Human Health-2022 (dated: 4th-6th November 2022) 2) Part of the NSS Unit in the outreach team 15. Harvin Siag 2021- 2024 1) volunteered in 2nd International Conference on Natural Products and Human Health-2022 (dated: 4th-6th November 2022) 16. Riddhi Bhardwaj 2021- 2024 1) Participation in VIMARSH'22, intellectual conclave, held on 11-13, November ‘22

2) Participation in biospark '22 in quiz competition'22 3) E -Workshop on research writing 4) Winner in content writing in- house event (YUVA) 5) Part of Enactus, YUVA and SURGE-dcc society 17. Siddharth Jain 2021- 2024 1) Won 3rd prize in biospark 2022 quiz 2) Finance and marketing intern at (ACS) (SRIP) 18. Mansha 2021- 2024 1) Head of women empowerment cell in NSS 2) Participation in mass surya namaskar organized by ministry of Ayush 3) participation in international symposium “Chemical Wisdom by Her” organized by Deshbandhu College 4) participation -in symposium on “Youth & Nation Building” Organized by the Department of Physical Education & Sports Sciences, Deshbandhu College 5) participated in 3-days Certificate Workshop on “Yogasna & Pranayama. 19. Sinthia Mondal 2021- 2024 1) 2nd prize rangoli competition , Biospark 2022. 2) Art work published at IGIB world brain day. Consolation prize , IGIB genetic art competition. - Participation: 1) 19th November 2021- Cover Page Contest, The Woven Tale Press. 2) 27-28th September 2022 MAMC Girls Volleyball Tournament 3) 29th September 2022 MAMC Sketching Competition- ''Emotions on a Sheet'' 4) 6th October 2022- Khula Asman Painting Competition. 5) 1st November 2022 - ICAW Poster Contest 6) 5th November2022 - LHMC Girls Volleyball Tournament 7) Attended 3-Days Workshop on Yogasna & Pranayama from 21st to 24th December, 2021. 8) Attended "Symposium on Youth and Nation Building" on 12th January 2022. 9) DU Centenary Run-participated and volunteered 10) Attended FIAS Conversation - 25th May 2022. 20. Chiranjeeb Mohanty 2021- 2024 1) 3rd position quiz competition,11th October Biospark 2022 21. Deepanker 2021- 2024 1) Participated in All india nau sainik camp held in vishakapatnam. 2) Runner up in swimming competition among ncc cadets of delhi. 3) Participated in tri service gaurd on foundation day of deshbandhu college. 4) Represent deshbandhu college in various inter college competitions. 22. Monika Bhardwaj 2021- 2024 1) Content Team Head in Youth United for vision and action YUVA SOCIETY

23. Anjishnu chakraborty 2021- 2024 1) Article published on the topic " azadi ka amrit mahotsav " in career chronicle magazine 24. Anshi Saxena 2021- 2024 1) Participated in International Symposium "Chemical Wisdom by Her" on 31st Jan 2022 2) Participated in "integrated approach of molecular imaging" webinar on 28th Feb 2022 3) Participated in "Rangoli competition" in Biospark event on 11th October 2022 25. Priyadarshin i Parhi 2021- 2024 1) Participated in biospark magazine coverpage making competition. 26. Ananye 2021- 2024 1) Biospark 2022 paper presentation competition for students- scientific showcase-Theme: COVID-19 vaccine development- secured 3rd position.

PINNACLE

SECTION 3 " A w or ld be yond s c i enc e " "For, each man can do best and excel in only that thing of which he is passionately fond, in which he believes, as I do, that he has the ability to do it, that he is in fact born and destined to do it." - HO M I J . B H AB H A

Discovery: An Opportunity In Crisis Pranamya, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry The concept of self-reliance is not new to us. The fire of ‘Atmanirbharat’ was brewing long before India was an independent nation. The desire to be self-reliant and not have to depend on another has been one of great importance. When we finally broke free from the shackles of foreign rule, it was finally the light at the end of the tunnel. It was a major expression of political self-reliance. In more recent times, it’s been more or less the same. The social world pre-COVID catered to individual interests — security, health, infrastructure, travel and shopping. Our past dependence on the external world is almost laughable. From relying on restaurants when we didn’t feel like cooking, making malls our primary ‘base’ for social gatherings and interaction, to depending on educational institutions to keep the kids busy during the day - no one was really ever expecting to have to remain confined within their homes for a year and a half. When the pandemic hit, it was unexpected. Surely, no one expected the fall of some of the world's greatest economies? India wasn’t spared either. India's economic growth in the fourth quarter of 2019-20 fell to 3.5% - a low not seen in more than 17 years - as private investment and manufacturing were hit hard. All of those industries that we relied so much on had to shut down. People lost their jobs. Overall, the country's GDP fell to an 11-year low of 4.2%. With all of the direct negative effects, have come a lot of ‘opportunities’ (subjective). The opportunity to spend time with the people you live with, to explore, discover and rediscover hobbies, and most importantly, in my opinion, to discover oneself. Whether through artistic expression and journaling, getting a therapist, writing, reading, communicating - we’ve all learned just a tad more about ourselves. To spread our branches, we need to strengthen our roots. Technology has played a major role in this. Through the pandemic, the young and old have had to discover the wonders of technology. We’ve been able to connect and communicate with people all over the world. We’ve shifted into the virtual world. So many of our industries - education, services, medicine - have all shifted gears. In order to strengthen the nation, we need to empower the lower-pyramid population by providing more jobs or generating entrepreneurial opportunities and thus, making them self-reliant. Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs), Self-Help Groups (SHGs), Small-Micro Enterprises (SMEs) have had quite the role to play! Surveys conducted by these organisations clearly illustrate that there is a desire of becoming self-reliant among the rural community, especially in sectors which have both social and economic benefits. As the country’s 1.3 billion people came together in an unprecedented show of discipline heeding Prime Minister Modi’s call, the nation is growing towards self-reliance in other ways. The government doubled its efforts to equip hospitals with ventilators, oxygen cylinders, masks, PPE kits and beds. The government also ramped up testing. From one Covid-19 testing lab in March 2021, India now has thousands. ‘Make in India’ became a household slogan, and has been a driving force in empowering the economy, and helping make India self-reliant. What is the ‘self’? Pre-COVID, the ‘self’ was individualistic. Whether or not we’ve wanted to, during the pandemic, we’ve had to come together as a people. The self was no longer an attribute of individuals. What does it mean to be a better society? It begins with me. It begins with you. It begins with coming together and acknowledging what isn’t working, and then working together to fix it. It’s in small acts of kindness. It’s in the motivation behind encouraging small business and going ‘vocal for local’. It’s in having goals as the people of the nation, and believing in innovation centricity. It’s in thanking the frontliners. In feeding the homeless. In getting to know your neighbours. In getting to know yourself. While we work as a society to be better together, and the old cliché of ‘self-discovery’ still prevails, maybe in these times of uncertainty, we’ve learned to depend on each other. To be self-reliant in ourselves, and as a country, but also discovered the joys of being selfless. Women Safety Anjishnu Chakrabarty, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry Crime rate against women in our country become directly proportional with the increase in the population of our country. On the other hand, if the population of our country is increasing at a rapid pace similarly on the other hand our country fail to provide safety to women . According to a report , in our country a girl is molested in every 16 minutes and in every 2 hours , there is attempt of molestation

in the girls . Rapes , molestation , acid attacks , domestic violence have now been a common crimes against women . Also crimes against women has been rising significantly over the past to years . Inspite of this we are unable to provide safety to women . After sunset , as the darkness grew girls are warned to come to home quickly . Why girls has to suffer such warnings ? why not boys or males are taught to respect girls or women ? The reason is quiet simple – girls are the main victims . Cases like NIRBHAYA , UNNAO GANG RAPE , or the recent KANJHAWALA CASE highlights one common thing that we as a citizen of India failed to provide basic safety to girls or women . This is quiet shocking and humiliating that inspite of world no .1 country in terms of population , one of the best equipped arsenal of weapons and army , we fail continuously to provide protection to a single girl/girls . Those who commit such remain moving freely as they are well aware no can do any harm to them . They forgot that those who gave birth to them is also a women . Our country cannot became Saudi Arabia in terms of providing stringent punishments (Beheadment), because our law does not gave us the right to do so . Sometime I feel ashamed of being a boy , I feel ashamed when I go through such news / articles . These convicts does not think twice before damaging girls face with acid , does not think twice doing such heinous crimes that they have also sisters , mother who is also a girl . In our country the main fault is being born a girl . Every second day . cases of domestic violence can be seen on the newspaper or in television . Main things that we males consider women as inferior or weak , but we don’t realise that if these women revolt or come in supreme form {shakti or goddess chandi} we will be just become destroyed in few moments . The thing is that when and where it will happen . Because these convicts need to visualise the supreme divine form of the women , the divine form { Ma Durga or Ma kali}. There should be fear in the eyes of these rapists , acid attackers so that their soul tremble before committing such heinous crimes . They should realize that the women who holds the whole universe { Ma Jaggadhatri}can take up weapon for the destruction of these evils and should stop considering women weak. For these women need to learn self defence practices . Because it is the high time for women to take form of divine form and destroy these evils . First and foremost our laws need to be stringent so that before harassing women next time they should think twice. Secondly proper lighting should be there in the streets as these convicts conduct their crimes in the dark. Finally I want to end my words through the following two lines:- “ YAA DEVI SARVA-BHUTESSU SHAKTI RUUPENNA SAMSTHITAA | NAMAS- TASYAI NAMAS – TASYAI NAMAS – TASYAI NAMO NAMAH ||” MEANING – To that Devi who in all beings is abiding in the form of power , salutations to her , salutations to her , salutations to her , salutations again and again . O mother ! it is the time for your incarnation in the women of our country and destroy these evils forever. Little Things and You Adeeba, 1st Year, Department of Biochemistry “Woke up today feeling gloomy Cause apparently I thought my mother do not love me But when saw a lunch box waiting for me on a table Chuckled and smacked myself a little for thinking that” “Cried in the bathroom Cause apparently a classmate said something mean But when I came out and told my friend about it “Let me teach him a lesson" said she, I giggled with tears in my eyes” “Felt so unfulfilled seeing those ‘aesthetic’ things people possess Cause apparently that’s how the standards are set But when I saw that little boy’s smile when someone gave him a box of pizza “I am so grateful for everything” were the words that echoed in my ears” “Felt so dumb, when I could not get good marks Cause apparently I seeked ‘academic validations’ But when on the same day I received a message saying “Do you even realize how amazing you are at some things when others are not?” I sighed, giggling. I will keep trying” “Do you think I am weird? I dmed Cause apparently I am not ‘Elegant like others’ “Yes you are, you are so weird” he replied A tear formed I was about to type ‘sorry’

But “You are so adorably weird, and you are so simple when others are so complicated. Thank you for being ‘weird’Anyways, did you have dinner?” A tear did spill but it was a happy one “I look so ugly, said me to my photo when we clicked a selfie Cause apparently I am not a pretty girl (according to them) You looked at me with fire in your eyes But “Say that again? I dare you” I laughed, you will always hold my pinky finger right?” “Was dancing and felt so stupid Cause apparently I don’t look good doing anything But, there were stars in your eyes “You are doing so good” You shouted when I stopped So I danced for you, and you danced for me” Little things. People. Birds. Moon. Sun. Flowers. Loved ones and what not. When these things exist then why do we worry so much? Being an introvert Riddhi Bhardwaj, 2ndYear, Department of Biochemistry I like to be lonesome, sometimes But when people ignore I feel invisible I like to be taciturn, sometimes But when people don’t take heed I feel abandoned I like to be passive. Sometimes But when people underestimate I feel trapped I like to be myself, always But when people negate I feel enervated I like who I’m, an Introvert But when people understate I feel dejected, still Euphoric Melancholy Rishala, 2ndYear, Department of Biochemistry Midas touch on my poisonous ivy The thorns of my yesterday's they bloom Into a new dawn I walk into where your eyes guide Like a soul behind the grim reaper My clover blooms beneath your scythe Like the moment after sinning, the guilt that creeps in that's how The way the moment of judgement Grips time in her clutches You are the silence at a funeral The weight of their distress over me You make me carry the punishment For drawing stars across your sky But your hands aren't bloody, it’s my desire that stains my dress Like the waves of a sea Wash over my shore just to leave You stay like the mystery of the moment after death Sent from the heavens or hades Only time could show the truth Whether its Medusa looking at me from behind the veils of my bliss I Wish Sinthia Mondal, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry I wish I could sing you as a song Drown in your intoxicating melody And play the music hidden in your laughter. I wish I could feel you as an emotion Cherish every moment of that sensation and marvel, how it’s obnoxiously pleasant. I wish I could draw you as a portrait, Sketch the obverse of your allure And paint, what an allege is your smile. I wish I could write as a poem If only word could describe your attributes Fascinating, bewildering and simply you.

God’s Daughter Preeti Jharimune, 2nd Year, Department of Biochemistry When a beautiful flower blooms, Don’t know why everyone try to pluck it? Only some thorns are there to protect, As if they are incarnations of God. Bitter from outside, Caring from inside. They get pricked in the hands of nasty, greedy humans, And save the baby flower from them like parents. Hard to understand, Yet filled with ecstasy. एक पेड़ म Eshika Awana, 3rdYear, Department of Biochemistry सखू ी सखू ी डा लय को अगर मलाओं.. एक बेजान दखनेवाला पौधा खड़ा होगा , िजसक कुछ डा लयाँसखू चकु हैऔर सभी प याँ.. जान कुछ थोड़ी बाक हैउसमेिजसनेउसेअबतक िजदं ा खड़ा हैरखा । जीनेक चाहत हैबहु त तभी हर मरतेहु ए दन वो िजदं ा खड़ा हो उठता है.. म ट मे मलना हैउसेएक दन मगर अभी म ट नेह उसेिजदं ा रखा है। और येबात वो जनता हैII एक हवा का झोका आएँ तो उड़ा लेजायेउसक हर एक प ी को , मगर हर दफा बचा लेता हैवो कुछ ता क जीनेक उ मीद ना देवो खो । अतं इस कहानी का आज नह , कभी और के लए लखा है .. य क ना रहा अगर येपेड़ तो समझ लेना, मेरा समय भी आ गया है। येपतझड़ आखर नह , मगर आएगा ज र आ खरकार वो सबका आना ह है। खदुको देख पाती हूं म इसमे.. महसरू कर पाती हूं अपना कल इसकेआज म .. आज जो इसके पास थोड़ा बाक है.. कल जो मेरा आना बाक ह , म ट , हवा, धपू , करणे , आज उसेचलेजानेके लए कहतेह .. उसेखदु म मल जानेके लए कहतेहै। ऐ वीर वतन के रखवाले Sapna, 3rd Year, Department of Biochemistry ऐ वीर वतन के रखवाले, येजोश कहाँसेलातेहो.... गद सा ढ़ रह कर के, अपना कत य नभातेहो। सहकर के ल दाख क सद , सकुँ ूका शमा जलातेहो। तपकर के सदुरू थार म , ख ुशय क हवा बन जातेहो। तमु चलतेहो, तमु कतेहो, पर पथ पर बढ़तेजातेहो। ऐ वीर वतन के रखवाले, येजोश कहाँसेलातेहो... End of Section 3

SECTION 4 "Depar tmental A c ti v iti e s " "If there has been any success in my life, that was built on the unshakable foundation of failure…" - JC BOS E

BIOSPARK EVENTS S.No Event Date Speaker/Topic 1. Biospark’21 Internatonal Webinar and Biospark Magazine Release 31st July, 2021 Dr. Harshul Arora Veraszto; Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the University of Geneva Protein Structure and Functon: Pentafunctonal AROM Complex”. 2. Biospark'22- Natonal Webinar by our Alumnus Invited Talk And Student Actvity of cover page designing 29th Jan, 2022 Dr. Mahavir Singh; Associate Professor at the Indian Insttute of Science Structure and Assembly of Toxin-Anttoxin Systems: Intracellular Molecular Time bombs in Bacteria 3. Biospark ‘22 Invited Lecture 23rd April, 2022 Dr. Shakt Singh; Research Scientst at Harbor- University of California, Los Angeles Medical Center, USA 4. Scientfc Showcase; Student Actvity of Poster Presentaton 9th July, 2022 Student oral presentaton competton on the topic: Covid-19 Vaccine Development 5. Invited Talk and student actvites of Rangoli Making and Quiz 11th Oct, 2022 Dr. Debi P. Sarkar. Senior Professor, Department of Biochemistry, DU Reminiscence of Glorious Past to Excitng present of Biological research in India: Basic Science to Translatonal Exploraton LABORATORY/INDUSTRY VISITS 1. Virtual Open Day 23rd - 26th Sep, 2021 Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology Hyderabad WORKSHOP/ SYMPOSIUM ORGANISED 1. Workshop for Lab Technicians 22nd - 24th Dec, 2021 Skill Enhancement Workshop on Basic Laboratory Procedures and Lab Ethics BIOCHEM RECONNOITRE (JOURNAL CLUB) ACTIVITIES 1. JC presentaton by students April, 2022 Ms. Amritaparna Maity, B.Sc (H) Biochemistry, IInd Year on Crispr-CAS Technology 2. Interactve Session on Scientfc Paper Presentaton 2nd July, 2022 Mr. Himanshu, TIFR, Mumbai

SCIENTIFIC SHOWCASE STUDENT COMPETITION

SECTION 6 "Me e t the A lumni" "The interest of the new generation in such communication exhibits their desire to understand the political situation." -OBAID S IDDIQI

IMPERIO Let’s Meet Our Alumini In many ways, graduating college marks a new beginning in life- the entry to a whole new world. Through this section let’s meet our alumni’s and hear about their experiences of the new world and how college played a vital role in their journey. My experience at Department of Biochemistry, Deshbandhu College was full of opportunities, discoveries and a lifetime of good memories. The bond I shared with all the teachers was so homely and warm. The way our teachers guided us, is indeed helping us even today at our classes and labs. I feel so proud and joyous when my professors ask me that who taught you with such great concepts in Graduation. Moreover, the opportunities I got while being there, be it Group Discussion or participating in National Conference, is still helping me by adding so many feathers to my hat. I will forever be grateful to this department for laying such a strong foundation of Biochemical Sciences in my life that today, I can look up to every query in my laboratory from a scientific perspective. The teachers, non-teaching staff and my whole batch, I'll always keep all of those lovely people within my sweet memories. (Chetan is currently pursuing M.Sc Biochemistry from ISc, BHU.) Chetan Sharma (Batch: 2018-2021) My journey at Deshbandhu started on July 24th 2019, and ended on May 30th 2022. Finishing my final exam of Immunology, I came to realize that Deshbandhu and the faculty of our department gave me a robust platform and academic freedom to explore niches of biological sciences. I then, went on to the Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, Harvard University, through the 2022 Harvard Origins of Life Initiative Fellowship and enjoyed my time in Boston. I even managed to connect to a Deshbandhu Biochemistry alumnus in Boston. Our faculty and department's course structure gave me a solid theoretical background to apply towards working with fundamental research questions, some of which I pursued during my time at Harvard. All throughout my 3 years of Bachelors, I received ample encouragement and recognition of my efforts from my faculty, for the international research internships, grants, conferences and publications that I get to list on my CV. The events, and workshops organized by the Department also helped me connect to our alumni, and receive guidance on career moves, say the biotech industry. (Siddhant is currently working as a consultant in Biotech startup based in Boston and enjoys working from anywhere in the world) Siddhant Sharma (Batch 2019-2022)

SECTION 5 -VI K RA M SARAB H AI " C r eations by Mae s t ros " " He who can listen to the music in the midst of noise can achieve great things."

Aditya Roy 1st year Photographs by

Sinthia Mondal 2nd year Sketch and Painting by

Riddhi Bhardwaj 2nd year Photographs by Eshika Awana 3rd year Pencil Sketch by Sapna 3rd year Photograph by

Peeyush Yadav 3rd year Hand Craft and Photograph by Sinthia Mondal 2nd year Photograph by Manav 2nd year Photograph by

Dr. Astha Giri Painting by Aayush Goel 3rd year Photograph by Sinthia Mondal 2nd year Sketch by