Dr. Ruby Sharma

“My Next Great Impossible uses a diverse array of peptides to study T1D. This includes using samples derived from cells impacted by insulitis (inflammation of the islets of Langerhans) and profiling highly expressed proteins."

‘These peptides are known to regulate various signalling pathways…’

The peptides used in this study are small molecules derived from the functional domains of the proteins that play a pivotal role in the development of T1D. These peptides are known to regulate various signalling pathways and can serve as a promising tool in understanding many immunological diseases. With further research, this could be used as a treatment for the disease. 

‘My next step is to make use of the cryoEM approach…’

My work also uses crystallographic approaches to identify recognition mechanisms between different peptides. My next step is to use cryoEM to dissect the entire structure of this complex. I’m interested in elucidating the interaction between these peptides to identify which proteins are overexpressed and lead to pancreatic beta-cell destruction in T1D patients. 

‘My interests were always rooted in medicine and how it can ease the pain of people around me.’

My family and friends have been a constant support from day one, and the thought of pursuing a career in research without them would have been impossible. My interests were always rooted in medicine and how it can ease the pain of people around me. I was fortunate to have Dr. Teresa P DiLorenzo as my mentor during my postdoctoral studies. Her perseverance and dedication make her a great mentor and a scientist; she taught me how to get the best out of scientific research.

FAQ:

Q: What kind of mindset do you need to achieve the Next Great Impossible?

A: Be ambitious.