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Vaithilingaraja Arumugaswami is a professor in the Department of Pharmacology, focusing on understanding pathogenic mechanisms of Flaviviridae family viruses, including Hepatitis C Virus, Zika Virus, and Dengue Virus. His research addresses the significant risk posed by these viral pathogens, particularly through mosquito vectors and contact with contaminated blood and bodily fluids, affecting billions globally. A primary aspect of his work is the development of a potent recombinant vaccine to prevent Zika virus infection, which is particularly concerning due to its association with congenital disorders such as microcephaly. His lab employs reverse genetics systems to engineer attenuated Zika viral genome mutations for testing in animal models. Exploring the complexities of transmission routes, the lab also models congenital Zika-related eye diseases using human pluripotent stem cells. In addition, Arumugaswami is investigating the potential of Zika virus-based oncolytic therapies aimed at targeting glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. Through decades of research in this area, the lab seeks to provide new treatment options for patients with limited prognosis, utilizing oncolytic viruses to stimulate immune responses against solid tumors.
Department of Economics admits primarily for the PhD program.