Roman Dziarski

Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine

Roman Dziarski, Ph.D., is a 2007-2008 Fellow of the Society of Innovators for Northwest Indiana. Dr. Dziarski is professor of Microbiology and Immunology at the Indiana University School of Medicine – Northwest, Gary, IN.

Dr. Dziarski has been the lead researcher focusing on the functions of human genes in developing immunity against infections and discovering three new human genes in the human genome. Over a decade ago, he set out to discover a new class of genes previously unknown and learn their functions in the human body. He also found the grants for his team to conduct their research at the Gary Campus totaling $8.4 million This professor has shared this discovery worldwide, which could lead to new ways for the body to fight disease. He described at least two phases of the discovery process: the first was the discovery of the genes; the second was the discovery of what each gene did. He was nominated by Pat Bankston, Ph.D., Director and Assistant Dean, IU School of Medicine – Northwest. Dr. Bankston said: “In the March 3, 2006 issue of the prestigious Medical Journal of Biological Chemistry, an Indiana University School of Medicine – Northwest team of scientists led by Dr. Roman Dziarski has published the first account of a previously unknown class of antibacterial proteins secreted by human tissues. Four proteins, called peptidoglycan recognition proteins or PGLYRP 1-4, have been found in skin, eyes, salivary glands, throat, tongue, esophagus, stomach and intestine of humans.” He added, “We believe that these proteins open up a whole new area of research….involving the ability of cells and tissues to fight infections.” Dr. Dziarski credits his team and particularly, Dipika Gupta who is also his wife, in making this discovery. The next phase of research could involve commercial production of important medicines.