Sunavala, Gulshan, BDS, MDS, MS, PhD
Biochemistry Molecular Biology
7-213, Medical School
Phone: 318-675-8216
Fax: 318-675-5180
Email: gsunav@lsuhsc.edu

Research Interests

1.   Salivary gland protection against genotoxic cancer therapies

2.   DNA repair

3.   Alveolar bone regeneration

   Prior research from our lab has shown that overexpression of a spliced form of Tousled-like kinase 1 (TLK1) protects normal cells against genotoxic damage.  Our research efforts are now directed towards determing its applicability as a gene therapeutic in protecting salivary glands against ionizing radiation.  Although the main area of research is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of TLK1, an equally important second area is to understand the molecular mechanism of its protective action.  Facilitation of DNA repair is an integral part of this protective action, and we are studying the facets that are influenced by TLK1.

   The studies on bone healing are aimed at evaluating the efficacy of angiogenic regulators in alveolar bone regeneration.  We are studying their mechanisms of action in new bone formation and mineralization.

 

Specialized Techniques/Procedures

1.   Cell culture

2.   Immunohistochemistry

3.   Immunofluorescence

4.   Genomic PCR, RT-PCR

5.   Preparation of viruses

6.   Cannulation of salivary ducts

7.   Small animal surgery and post-operative care