Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB)

Scientists at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) have made a significant discovery regarding how white blood cells can adapt their internal skeletons to better combat pathogens. This discovery is an important advancement in understanding how the body’s immune cells respond to infections at the cellular level.

About the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB)

The CCMB is one of India’s leading research institutions, focused on frontier areas of modern biology.

Mission and Objectives:

• Primary Mission: To conduct high-quality basic research and provide training in the cutting-edge fields of modern biology.

• National Role: Promoting centralized national facilities for advanced techniques in biology, particularly in interdisciplinary areas.

• Global Recognition: CCMB is regarded as a global leader in cellular and molecular research.

History and Establishment:

• Established in 1977, CCMB is located in Hyderabad, Telangana, and operates under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which is part of India’s Ministry of Science and Technology.

• Since its inception, it has made pioneering contributions to understanding the molecular mechanisms that govern biological systems.

Key Research Areas:

• Genetics

• Biotechnology

• Bioinformatics

• Immunology

• Molecular Medicine

• Proteomics

• Cellular Mechanisms

These areas are explored with a focus on both fundamental research and translational research, addressing real-world problems in medicine, disease management, agricultural improvement, and environmental sustainability.

State-of-the-Art Facilities:

CCMB houses cutting-edge research facilities, including:

• A high-throughput genomics facility

• A bioinformatics centre

These facilities help researchers perform advanced studies in genomics and other areas of molecular biology.

Training and Collaboration:

• The institution offers training programs and workshops for students and researchers.

• CCMB collaborates extensively with national and international institutions, fostering a global exchange of knowledge and research advancements.

International Recognition:

• CCMB is designated as a "Center of Excellence" by the Global Molecular and Cell Biology Network under UNESCO.

Significance of Recent Discovery:

The discovery by CCMB scientists on how white blood cells can adapt their internal skeletons (the cytoskeleton) to fight pathogens offers new insights into the immune response. White blood cells, like neutrophils and macrophages, are crucial in fighting infections. The ability of these cells to reorganize their cytoskeleton in response to pathogens can help improve immune defense strategies and may lead to better therapeutic approaches for diseases that impair immune function.