Neel Dhingani, Biochemistry

MSc Candidate
Student's Name: Neel Dhingani   
Country: Gujarat, India
Pre-MSc/PhD Education: 2010-2014: Honours Bachelor of Science (McMaster University)

Recent Research Experience:
During my 4th year of undergraduate degree, I did my thesis on investigating the role of HDL receptor, Scavenger Receptor Class B Type I (SR-BI), in atherosclerosis development using a LDLR KO mouse model.

Current Research:
My current research pertains to understanding the role of a Tetratricopeptide Repeat Domain 7A (TTC7A) in causing apoptotic enterocolitis or multiple intestinal atresia with combined immunodeficiency in pediatric patients. A common feature found across all the patients is disrupted apicobasal polarity of the cells. I am unravelling the role of TTC7A through its binding partners identified from mass spectrometry. The research should give an insight into how TTC7A mutations disrupt the apicobasal polarity and results in various disease phenotypes.

Why Faculty of Medicine?
Faculty of Medicine at UofT has a rich history of performing groundbreaking research. For example, Insulin was discovered by Banting and Best at the Faculty of Medicine which was awarded a Nobel Prize. The department has made various breakthroughs in the field of Medicine over the years and I want to be a part of this cohort to continue to perform impactful research.

Future Education Plans and/or Career Goals:
My short term plan includes enrolling in a medical school. However, I am also currently exploring other career options which were introduced to me through taking a Graduate Professional Development course by Dr. Nana Lee.  

Contact Ambassador Neel Dhingani