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Prof. Bibhas Roy

Assistant Professor
Department of Biological Sciences

3D In Vitro Disease Models, Air Pollution Toxicology, Longevity Research, Mechanobiology, Quantitative Imaging
Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
Hyderabad Campus
Office: J-125
Jawahar Nagar, Kapra Mandal
Dist.-Medchal-500 078
Telangana, India

Mechanobiological and Epigenetic Changes in Aging Lungs Exposed to air pollutant: Identifying Therapeutic Strategies for Lung Dysfunction

Aging lungs experience structural and functional declines, including increased inflammation, reduced elasticity, and diminished regenerative capacity, largely due to modifications in the extracellular matrix (ECM). These changes alter the lung’s mechanical microenvironment, impairing key functions and making the lung more susceptible to damage from pollutants like PM2.5. 

Our research aims to understand the mechanobiological changes that occur in aging lungs and their interaction with airborne particulate matter (PM2.5), particularly in the context of age associated lung dysfunctions and lung diseases. 

  • To investigate these effects, we are developing an in vitro aging lung model that mimics the mechanical microenvironment of aged lung epithelium. 
  • This model allows us to study how mechanical microenvironment influences particulate uptake and its impact on cell state transitions. 
  • We aim to explore mechanobiological checkpoints and epigenetic modifications that drive pathological changes in aged lung tissues. 
  • Identifying novel strategies and therapeutics to rejuvenate lung dysfunction in aging individuals exposed to airborne pollutants.