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Thanigaivelan Kanagasabai

Thanigaivelan Kanagasabai

Assistant Professor of Biochem and Cancer Biology

Meharry Medical College

Dr. Thanigaivelan Kanagasabai is a researcher with extensive experience in molecular biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, and tumor immunology. His doctoral research focused on the molecular characterization of osteoclasts in type 2 diabetic subjects, utilizing cell culture and molecular techniques to explore the underlying mechanisms. Over the past decade, Dr. Kanagasabai has dedicated his research efforts to understanding the molecular processes that regulate tumor progression and metastasis, employing both in-vitro and in-vivo models. In his first postdoctoral position at Nova Southeastern University, Dr. Kanagasabai investigated the role of MDM2 in cancer progression and metastasis. His subsequent postdoctoral training at Meharry Medical College centered on the epigenetic regulator KDM5B (Histone Lysine Demethylase 5B) and its interaction with microRNA-21 in prostate tumorigenesis. Currently, Dr. Kanagasabai’s research at Shanker’s lab focuses on the molecular interactions between CD8 T and NK cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), exploring how these interactions influence cancer progression and immune responses. In addition to his research, Dr. Kanagasabai is committed to the education and mentorship of undergraduate, graduate, medical, and dental students. He is also a program coordinator for the NSF-COMPASS program at Meharry Medical College, working alongside Dr. Shanker and Dr. Ramesh to further promote scientific education and collaboration.