Guest Lecture on ‘Modulation of Immune Responses by Metabolic Reprogramming’ by Prof. Jianxun (Jim) Song, Texas A&M University, USA, March 28, 2025

The School of Earth, Biological and Environmental Sciences (SEBES) at the Central University of South Bihar (CUSB), Gaya, under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Kameshwar Nath Singh. The SEBES successfully organized a special lecture on ‘Modulation of Immune Responses by Metabolic Reprogramming’ by the keynote speaker Prof. Jianxun (Jim) Song, R.L. Bricker Endowed Professor in Cancer Immunology, Microbial Pathogenesis & Immunology, College of Medicine at Texas A&M University, USA. Prof. Jim Song is a globally recognized renowned cancer biologist, has worked in close association with Nobel laureate. The special lecture was a part of SEBES Lecture Series. Mr. Vinay Kumar Tiwary, Chief Managing Director of Vastu Vihar Biotech Pvt. Ltd, Bodhgaya also graced the occasion. Prof. Song also had interactive session with the research scholars and faculty members of the School before the special lecture. Large number of students, Ph.D. Scholar and faculty attended the special lecture.

Prof. Rizwanul Haque, Dean of the School of Earth, Biological and Environmental Sciences, welcomed the eminent guest speaker and the guests. In his introductory speech, Prof. Rizwan who himself is an immunologist, spoke about the importance of research in immunology, and its role in modern medicine and healthcare. He emphasized how such events encourage learning and global collaboration. He acknowledged the continued support and contributions of Mr. Vinay Kumar Tiwary in many different ways to the University. Mr. Tiwary thanked the University fraternity and shared about the ongoing research in Vastu Vihar Biotech Pvt. Ltd.

The highlight of the day was the special lecture by Prof. Song, where he elaborated on how metabolic reprogramming can reshape and enhance immune responses to combat diseases more effectively. He explained that a decreased immune response could lead to infections and cancer, whereas an excessive immune response can result in allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a balanced immune response. He also discussed key factors in immune regulation, such as NAC1, eEF-2K, and engineered microbes, and their role in modulating immune function. His thought-provoking insights captivated the audience and opened new dimensions for research in the field of cancer immunology. He stressed on the translational research and showed his work how can translate your basic research into translation research.

The event concluded with vote of thanks by Dr. Amrita Srivastava, Organizing Secretary, who expressed gratitude to the guest speaker, university administration, faculty, and students for their support. The notable researchers and faculty members of many different departments of the School including Prof. Asheesh Shanker (Head, Department of Bioinformatics), Prof. Prabhat Ranjan (Head, Department of Computer Science), Prof. R.S. Rathore (Department of Bioinformatics), Dr. Rajesh Ranjan (Department of Environmental Sciences), Dr. Vikal Kumar Singh (Department of Geology), Dr. Anil Kumar (Department of Bioinformatics), Dr. Sanjay Kumar (Department of Life Science), Dr. Chandra Prabha (Department of Teacher Education) and others were present. The programme was attended by many Masters and PhD students of the School and other Departments of the University. The session was interactive, faculty and students asked several questions related to the talk and in general about immunology and healthcare.