Pranay L. Ramteke, PhD – ORS

Post-Doctoral Researcher at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Biotechnology, University of Mumbai, India

Who do you consider your mentors?
Dr. Makarand Risbud (Thomas Jefferson University) and Dr. John Collins (Thomas Jefferson University) have been excellent mentors who have supported me in executing my research ideas and establishing a strong foundation in the musculoskeletal biology field. I continue to value their suggestions in my research career as well. The list of people who have contributed to my overall progress is unending and I would like to say it’s a cumulative effort of everyone.

What are you currently working on?
I’m currently exploring epigenetic reprogramming approach utilizing Sirtuins to improve regenerative and therapeutic potential in the spine. Our recent work has shown that epigenetics play an important role in musculoskeletal disorders and accelerated aging. We’ve identified the key mechanisms regulating intervertebral disc degeneration. Furthermore, by studying the etiological factors for degeneration of these tissues, we were also successfully able to rewire these causative factors and improve overall musculoskeletal health and aging.

What has been the biggest challenge for you lately in your research?
Lately, the biggest challenge has been to apply basic and translational research to meet clinical requirements.

What projects are you looking forward to?
We’ve recently deciphered the underlying mechanisms of major etiological factors for IVDD and are currently exploring to modulate it for regenerative therapeutics. Going forward, I’m specifically interested in executing my ideas and collaborating to further enhance and accelerate regenerative potential via a combination of different approaches to boost cellular and tissue healing along with immune modulation in injury and non-injury based models. Another interesting aspect is to form a powerful combination of epigenetic reprogramming approach with biomaterials and to translate it for improving patient healthcare.

What changes would you like to see in the future of the orthopedic research community?
A very good strategic future change would be to 1. Study the clinical requirements from experts in the field; & 2. Use existing models, or design new regenerative research approaches to meet these goals to reach from bench to bedside. This combined effort would be greatly helpful not only for the clinicians and patients, but also for scientists, researchers and students for designing future research goals and driving the field.

What do you like to do outside of your work?
I like to enjoy spending time playing Sports- Cricket, Table tennis and Badminton. I also like to travel around the world (Europe, US, Asia and counting!). When time allows, I also enjoy some quality time with friends, family and pets.

What is the last book you read?
I’m an avid fan of brilliant detective stories and therefore the last book I read was from the works of Sir Arthur Ignatius Conan Doyle: The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.

What is the most unusual/unexpected item sitting on your desk right now?
An easter egg from lab treasure hunt.