ABSTRACT
First Person is a series of interviews with the first authors of a selection of papers published in Journal of Cell Science, helping early-career researchers promote themselves alongside their papers. Rajdeep Das is first author on ‘ MITOL-mediated DRP1 ubiquitylation and degradation promotes mitochondrial hyperfusion in a CMT2A-linked MFN2 mutant’, published in JCS. Rajdeep is a senior research fellow in the lab of Professor Oishee Chakrabarti at the Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, India, investigating mitochondrial dynamics and cellular trafficking.
Rajdeep Das
How would you explain the main findings of your paper in lay terms?
My work deals with a mutation in a protein called mitofusin 2 (MFN2), which maintains mitochondrial structure and function. Mitochondria are highly dynamic, and they undergo cycles of fission (breaking of one mitochondrion into two) and fusion (joining of two mitochondria into a single mitochondrion), thereby maintaining quality control. MFN2 is required in fusion. The mutation of its gene causes MFN2 to go rogue, leading to mitochondria forming long thread-like structures due to decreased fission. This phenotype adversely affects cellular homeostasis, which ultimately could lead to the development of a neuropathy.
Were there any specific challenges associated with this project? If so, how did you overcome them?
One of the major challenges that I faced was determining the role of the E3 ubiquitin ligase MITOL in modifying DRP1. Multiple experimental repeats, thorough analysis of the data and help from my PI helped me overcome the problem.
When doing the research, did you have a particular result or ‘eureka’ moment that has stuck with you?
Yes, it was kind of a eureka moment when I was finally able to decipher the mechanism involved in my study.
Why did you choose Journal of Cell Science for your paper?
I chose Journal of Cell Science because it is a highly reputed journal that focuses on publishing good quality research with a mechanistic angle.
Have you had any significant mentors who have helped you beyond supervision in the lab? How was their guidance special?
Yes, my colleague Dr Rukmini Mukherjee helped me a lot with my work. The guidance was really special owing to the fact that she taught me how to remain calm in the most stressful situations and overcome problems in research and in life.
What motivated you to pursue a career in science, and what have been the most interesting moments on the path that led you to where you are now?
The desire to make discoveries and to learn about fascinating discoveries made by other scientists always intrigued me and motivated me to pursue a career in science.
Who are your role models in science? Why?
Srinivasa Ramanujan, A. P. J. Abdul Kalam and Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose. All of them had humble beginnings, and despite great adversity they were able to fulfil their dreams, instil hope in people and inspire many others with their amazing discoveries.
What's next for you?
I would like to apply for a postdoctoral position after I complete my PhD.
Tell us something interesting about yourself that wouldn't be on your CV
I love reading historical facts. If not biology, I would have ventured into history.
Rajdeep Das's contact details: Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Sector 1, AF Block, Bidhan Nagar, Bidhannagar, Kolkata, West Bengal 700064, India.
E-mail: [email protected], [email protected]
