Chandrashekhar Unakal

Dr. Chandrashekhar Unakal


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

4Years (2023-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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5 September 2023 in Microorganisms
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
AJAngel Justiz-Vaillant
Angel Justiz-Vaillant
AWArlene F. Williams-Persad
Arlene F. Williams-Persad
RFRodolfo Arozarena Fundora
Rodolfo Arozarena Fundora
DGDarren Avinash Gopaul
Darren Avinash Gopaul
SSSachin Soodeen
Sachin Soodeen
EAEberechi Patrick Akpaka
Eberechi Patrick Akpaka
Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is a primary immunodeficiency caused by a defect in the phagocytic function of the innate immune system owing to mutations in genes encoding the five subunits of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphatase (NADPH) oxidase enzyme complex. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive approach to the pathogens associated with chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) and its management. Patients with CGD, often children, have recurrent life-threatening infections and may develop infectious or inflammatory complications. The most common microorganisms observed in the patients with CGD are Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus spp., Candida spp., Nocardia spp., Burkholderia spp., Serratia spp., and Salmonella spp. Antibacterial prophylaxis with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, antifungal prophylaxis usually with itraconazole, and interferon gamma immunotherapy have been successfully used in reducing infection in CGD. Haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) have been successfully proven to be the treatment of choice in patients with CGD.

14 August 2024 in Microorganisms
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
AJAngel Justiz-Vaillant
Angel Justiz-Vaillant
DGDarren Avinash Gopaul
Darren Avinash Gopaul
SSSachin Soodeen
Sachin Soodeen
CUChandrashekhar Unakal
Chandrashekhar Unakal
RTReinand Thompson
Reinand Thompson
EAEberechi Patrick Akpaka
Eberechi Patrick Akpaka
Immunology and microbiology research has witnessed remarkable growth and innovation globally, playing a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of immune mechanisms, disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic interventions. This manuscript presents a comprehensive exploration of the key areas in immunology research, spanning from the utilisation of bacterial proteins as antibody reagents to the intricate realms of clinical immunology and disease management. The utilisation of bacterial immunoglobulin-binding proteins (IBPs), including protein A (SpA), protein G (SpG), and protein L (SpL), has revolutionised serological diagnostics, showing promise in early disease detection and precision medicine. Microbiological studies have shed light on antimicrobial resistance patterns, particularly the emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), guiding antimicrobial stewardship programmes and informing therapeutic strategies. Clinical immunology research has elucidated the molecular pathways underlying immune-mediated disorders, resulting in tailored management strategies for conditions such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE), etc. Additionally, significant efforts in vaccine development against tuberculosis and HIV are highlighted, underscoring the ongoing global pursuit of effective preventive measures against these infectious diseases. In summary, immunology and microbiology research have provided significant contributions to global healthcare, fostering collaboration, innovation, and improved patient outcomes.

15 September 2024
Verified
Book Chapter
Closed access
PDF file
CUChandrashekhar Unakal
Chandrashekhar Unakal
RSRamya Saravanakumar
Ramya Saravanakumar
PAPatrick E. Akpaka
Patrick E. Akpaka
BPBijay Pandit
Bijay Pandit
EDEsther Daniel
Esther Daniel
MKMohsin Khurshid
Mohsin Khurshid

21 August 2024 in Preprints.org
Verified
Preprint
Open access
PDF file
AJAngel Justiz-Vaillant
Angel Justiz-Vaillant
RFRodolfo Arozarena Fundora
Rodolfo Arozarena Fundora
DGDarren Avinash Gopaul
Darren Avinash Gopaul
SSSachin Soodeen
Sachin Soodeen
RTReinand Thompson
Reinand Thompson
AKArvind Kurhade
Arvind Kurhade
Leishmaniasis, comprising cutaneous and mucocutaneous forms, is a parasitic disease caused by Leishmania species via sandfly bites, leading to skin ulcers and mucosal damage. Traditional treatments include antiparasitic drugs such as pentavalent antimonials, amphotericin B, and miltefosine, with immunotherapy and chemotherapy being explored for enhanced efficacy and reduced relapse. Mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (ML) balances IFN-γ and IL-10, affecting severity, while cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) shows varied IFN-γ/IL-10 ratios influencing prognosis. Cytokines and chemokines are diagnostic and prognostic markers in CL. Research into neutrophils and the NLRP3 inflammasome informs Th1/Th2 response regulation. Live attenuated LdCen-/- parasites and genetically modified vaccines show promise, with miR-21 as a potential efficacy biomarker. Understanding cytokine networks is crucial for new treatment strategies.

24 September 2024 in Preprints.org
Verified
Preprint
Open access
PDF file
AJAngel Justiz-Vaillant
Angel Justiz-Vaillant
DGDarren Avinash Gopaul
Darren Avinash Gopaul
OAOdalis Asin-Milan
Odalis Asin-Milan
RFRodolfo Arozarena Fundora
Rodolfo Arozarena Fundora
RTReinand Thompson
Reinand Thompson
CUChandrashekhar Unakal
Chandrashekhar Unakal
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a well-known cause of cervical cancer, with HIV infection exacerbating the prevalence of high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). ART has been shown to reduce the likelihood of developing squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs) and HR-HPV prevalence, although its impact on invasive cervical cancer remains inconclusive. In a study in Accra, 250 sexually active HIV-positive women exhibited a high HPV prevalence, emphasising the need for regular screening. HPV testing, visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), and cytology-based tests are primary screening methods, each with specific advantages and limitations. Cervical cancer rates in sub-Saharan Africa are alarmingly high, necessitating targeted vaccination and prevention strategies.