Biography:

Neha Jeena is a PhD research scholar in the Department of Microbiology at the Central University of Rajasthan, Ajmer, specialising in Molecular Biology. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Surajmal Agrawal Pvt. Kanya Mahavidyalaya and MSc. Degree in Microbiology from Department of Biotechnology, Kumaun University, Bhimtal.  As a part of her MSc. degree she undertook a six month dissertation work at Bhabha Atomic Research centre(BARC), Mumbai. At Central University of Rajasthan, Neha’s research focuses on developing RNA-targeted therapies by identifying ligands that bind to SARS-CoV-2 pseudoknot structures, disrupting frameshifting and inhibiting viral propagation within the host cell. The ligands will be identify through virtual docking of small molecule libraries followed by validation of hits through dual frameshifting and in-vitro antiviral assays. Identified compounds will then be profiled for safety in HepG2 cell lines and evaluated for their ADME properties. Novel anti-frameshifting agents with high specificity and efficacy will be identified, followed by optimization of lead compounds using medicinal chemistry approaches. Ultimately, targeting the viral genome -1 PRF elements aims to minimize resistance and mutations, providing a sustainable and effective antiviral strategy.