PhD: Applied Microbiology, University of Madras, Tamil Nadu, India
MS: Applied Plant Science, University of Madras, Tamil Nadu, India
BS: Botany, Zoology and Chemistry, Bharathidasan University, India
Postdoctoral Training: Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark and Neuroscience Department, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine
Dr. Manavalan started his tenure at MANA in 2019. He has 12 years of research experience in the biological science field, including microbiology, cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and quantitative proteomics. His previous work focused on investigating the mechanisms of aging-related neurodegeneration at the quantitative proteomic level in different areas of the brain. For example, several of his studies involved the comprehensive identification of proteins in the brain that have altered expression levels in response to aging and age-related dementia. Additionally, working with colleagues at Nanyang Technological University (Singapore), Dr. Manavalan developed several potential therapeutics for these same conditions. While at the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Manavalan’s research focused on understanding SorCS1 and the insulin receptor protein complex, in an effort to enhance insulin sensitivity. At MANA, Dr. Manavalan studies the development of pharmacological chaperone therapy to treat Krabbe disease (KD). In particular, he is interested in developing new therapeutics that can restore enzymatic function in children with this disease.