CSB Research Faculty Profile: Mintu Chandra

Posted by daviskd2 on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 in News.

Mintu Chandra, PhD, is a research assistant professor in the Biological Sciences department and currently works in the Jackson lab. Experiments in the lab allow him to contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge, but he also finds inspiration from his experiments in the kitchen. Meet Mintu …

What project are you currently working on? My current research is centered around exploring the intricate mechanisms involved in the movement of transmembrane proteins and lipids across various cellular compartments, a fundamental aspect of cellular function. My objective is to unveil novel components and shed light on the molecular intricacies of these pathways, particularly those implicated in conditions like neurological disorders and cancers. A key component of this process is the Retromer complex, which, together with various Sorting Nexins (SNXs), forms endosomal coat complexes to manage the trafficking of transmembrane cargoes. My current work focuses on understanding the structure-function relationships in the Retromer/SNX27 assembly on membranes and exploring pathways that connect cell communication and transport.

What are the primary tools and techniques you use to answer these questions? I utilize a variety of structural approaches including cryogenic electron microscopy/tomography, X-ray crystallography and the AlphaFold Multimer. Additionally, I employ Biolayer interferometry (BLI) for kinetics assays, Isothermal Titration Calorimetry (ITC) for thermodynamic measurement and cellular approaches employing co-IP and siRNA-based knock-down/rescue techniques.

What was your path to this position? My journey to becoming a Research Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt has been marked by extensive educational and research experiences in structural biology and cellular trafficking. Following the completion of my Master’s degree in biotechnology at Jadavpur University, Kolkata, India, I engaged in brief research at the Indian Institute of Chemical Biology (IICB), Kolkata, laying the groundwork for my doctoral studies at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, India, where I focused on cellular trafficking in Entamoeba histolytica. Upon completing my Ph.D., I joined Brett Collins’ lab at the Institute for Molecular Biosciences (IMB), University of Queensland, Australia, as a Postdoctoral Research Officer. Here, I immersed myself in studying membrane trafficking mechanisms mediated by the Retromer complex and SNX proteins, and their relevance to neurodegenerative disorders. My contributions to this realm were showcased in esteemed journals. Subsequently, in February 2019, I embarked on my second postdoctoral training at Vanderbilt University in Lauren Jackson’s lab, where I continued my investigations into the molecular architecture of the mammalian Retromer complex and its interaction with SNX27. These efforts yielded significant research findings and publications.  My significant research contributions led to my promotion to Research Assistant Professor at Vanderbilt University in July 2022. In this capacity, I persist in advancing research endeavors in membrane trafficking and cellular biology.

What is your favorite part of being research faculty within a lab? My favorite aspect of being research faculty within a lab lies in the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge. The intellectual freedom and flexibility provided by a research faculty position empower me to explore diverse research avenues and innovate approaches to tackle scientific challenges.

What do you think is the key to a cohesive lab environment? In my point of view, the key to fostering a cohesive lab environment lies in effective communication, mutual respect, and collaboration among team members. Additionally, fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, where differences are celebrated and individuals feel empowered to express their unique viewpoints, strengthens bonds and promotes a sense of camaraderie among lab members.

What are some fun activities you like to do outside of lab? Outside of the lab, I relish spending time with my wonderful family and friends as we explore the lively city of Nashville. On weekends, I particularly enjoy experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Participating in these activities not only boosts my personal well-being but also sparks my creativity and productivity, providing me with renewed enthusiasm and inspiration for my scientific pursuits.