Research Projects

Plant cyclic peptides, a group of post-translationally modified peptides (RiPPs), are less explored in the therapeutic field. They are primarily found in three families: cyclotides, PawS-derived Peptides, and orbitides. Cyclotides are the largest and most studied group, with nearly 400 known for their cytotoxic, antimicrobial, and insecticidal activities. PawS-derived peptides are smaller and have one cystine knot, first isolated from sunflower seeds. Orbitides are smaller cyclic peptides with 6-8 amino acid residues and no cysteine knots, with almost 46 known. The Himalayan region has a rich biodiversity with potential for therapeutic applications. Traditional Ayurveda uses plants from the region for therapeutic purposes. The CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine has a rich legacy in natural products and diversity, making cyclic peptides from the plants in the sub-Himalayan region less explored. This project aims to investigate cyclic peptide-producing plants in the region. Screening plant species and parts will be conducted using MS/LCMS/MSMS techniques to evaluate the presence of cyclic peptides. A proof of concept will be developed by evaluating known producers of cyclic peptides, such as Clitoria ternatea, Viola odorata, Helianthus annuus (sunflower) seeds, and Linum usitatissimum (flax) seeds. Extraction and isolation of these peptides will be carried out using various techniques, including chromatographic and purification methods. Characterization of these peptides will be performed using spectroscopic techniques. This project will contribute to the knowledge base of peptide-producing plants in the Himalayan region and potentially help develop their medicinal usage.