About Me
PhD candidate specializing in computational and experimental peptide design for next-generation therapeutics
Prajesh Shrestha
PhD Candidate & Research Assistant
I am a PhD candidate in Pathobiological Sciences at Louisiana State University, specializing in computational and experimental peptide design for next-generation therapeutics. My expertise spans molecular modeling, docking, and molecular dynamics alongside biophysical validation techniques such as SPR, HPLC, CD, and mass spectrometry.
I focus on targeting protein–protein interactions in oncology and autoimmune disease, with published work on grafted peptide chimeras, BODIPY-TKI conjugates, cyclic peptidomimetics, and liposomal delivery systems. I apply bioinformatics and RNA-seq analysis to investigate therapeutic mechanisms, complemented by 3D tumor spheroid models and in vivo studies in cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.
I believe in the power of rational drug design combined with rigorous experimental validation. My approach integrates cutting-edge computational methods with traditional biochemical techniques to accelerate the discovery of novel therapeutic peptides. Every project is driven by the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes through innovative science.
Research and Technical Expertise
Research Focus Areas
Rational design of bioactive peptides using structure-activity relationships and advanced synthetic methodologies
Development of peptide-based inhibitors targeting key protein-protein interactions in oncology
Engineering immunomodulatory peptides for selective T-cell response modulation
Molecular dynamics simulations and machine learning approaches for drug discovery
Technical Proficiency
Academic Journey
Research Project: "Design & Development of Peptide and peptidomimetics Inhibitors for non-small cell lung cancer therapy"
Coursework: Structural Biology and Drug Discovery, Introduction to Bioinformatics/NGS Data, Molecular Genetics, Basic Immunology, Flow Cytometry lab, Advanced Microscopy, Grant Writing
Coursework: Advanced Pharmaceutics, Advanced Medicinal Analysis, Molecular Theory Foundations, Molecular Structure and Functional Proteins, Advanced Pharmacology & Pharmacology Lab, Advanced Statistics
Key Achievements:
Completed Bachelor's degree in Pharmacy with a focus on pharmaceutical sciences, medicinal chemistry, and drug development fundamentals. Foundation in pharmaceutical analysis, formulation development, and regulatory sciences.
Developed and optimized dosage forms including bilayer sustained-release tablets, capsules, liquids, ointments, and creams through excipient compatibility studies, DoE, scale-up, and stability testing.
Recent Training & Certifications
Advanced R programming for bioscience research applications
Computational biology and bioinformatics fundamentals
NGS data analysis and computational pipeline development
Advanced computational chemistry methods
Programming fundamentals for scientific applications
Let's Collaborate
Interested in discussing research opportunities, collaborative projects, or sharing insights in peptide drug design? I'm always open to connecting with fellow researchers and industry professionals.