Dr Md Arif Sheikh, PhD

I was awarded a PhD in Molecular and Structural Biology from the University of St Andrews, UK. This achievement was a collaborative effort involving the University of Oxford, UK, and the University of Delaware, USA. My academic journey is marked by a robust track record in research and academia. My work focused on combating pneumonia, a global health challenge affecting around 450 million people annually and causing 4 million deaths. A significant contribution of mine was in deciphering the crystal structure of the pneumolysin toxin, a key factor in pneumonia. This breakthrough played a pivotal role in the initial stages of developing pneumonia drugs, an initiative supported by the Wellcome Trust UK.

Before my PhD, I graduated with a first-class honours degree in Microbiology from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Over my 17-year research career, I have gained extensive knowledge and experience in various scientific fields, including bioinformatics, microbiological techniques, protein purification, tissue culture, and both biochemical and biophysical analysis. My expertise also covers protein crystallization, X-ray crystallography, electron microscopy, structure determination, and drug discovery. Additionally, I have experience in writing several grant applications.

Throughout my career, I have played a key role in resolving the structures of over 45 proteins, now included in the Protein Data Bank (www.rcsb.org). My professional experience extends across diverse research laboratories worldwide, including in the UK, EU, USA, and Asia. This global exposure has enabled me to build a vast network of connections in both the scientific and business communities, particularly in the UK and Bangladesh.

BIOSKETCH

Research Interest

My long-term research interest revolves around combating the process of aging, with a specific focus on the thymus gland, an essential element in our immune system. The thymus, located behind the breastbone, is instrumental in generating T cells that are crucial for fighting infections. However, as we age, the thymus undergoes involution, shrinking in size and diminishing its ability to produce T cells. This natural but unfavorable process not only accelerates aging but also makes the body more susceptible to various health issues including infections, cancers, and autoimmune diseases.

My interest is in innovative solutions that could potentially reverse or slow down thymic involution, thereby strengthening immunity and decelerating the aging process. One such promising development is T-BOOSTER, a supplement formulated by T-Booster Limited. This supplement is a blend of multiple clinically proven natural ingredients designed to rejuvenate the thymus and enhance T cell production. T-BOOSTER represents a significant breakthrough in healthcare, targeting the root cause of immune decline associated with aging. It’s a testament to the potential of combining scientific knowledge with natural compounds to combat age-related health issues. This approach not only offers a novel way to boost immunity but also opens up possibilities for enhancing overall health and longevity.

We are pleased to announce that T-Booster Limited has been granted permission to conduct a clinical trial at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) in Bangladesh, aiming to assess the efficacy of T-BOOSTER on thymus functionality in 400 volunteers.

ANTI-AGEING

By 2050, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is anticipated to cause 10 million human fatalities annually, exceeding the death rate from cancer. This crisis is exacerbated by the prevalent use of antibiotics in animal agriculture, which accounts for up to 80% of antibiotic use in the US, emphasizing the intertwined nature of human and animal health. The rise in AMR highlights the critical need for sustainable antibiotic practices to avert catastrophic health, environmental, and economic consequences.

In response, Avix Pharmaceuticals Limited, UK is championing green antibiotics, a groundbreaking initiative for a plant-based alternative in animal agriculture, supported by proof-of-concept studies. These green antibiotics aim to:

• Offer a safe, natural, and effective substitute to traditional antibiotics.

• Counteract the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria at its source.

• Maintain the economic viability of the aquaculture and poultry sectors, with market values of $200B and $350B, respectively, by providing a sustainable antimicrobial option.

• Encourage a comprehensive strategy that considers the well-being of both animals and humans.

• Preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics for future generations.

Our research introduces green antibiotics as an innovative response to superbugs, aiming for sustainable animal agriculture.

GREEN ANTIBIOTICS

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