ICMR-Emeritus Scientist, at ICMR-NIRRCH, India.
Dr. Nafisa Huseni Balasinor is a distinguished molecular biologist specializing in reproductive biology, epigenetics, and neuroendocrinology. She currently serves as an ICMR-Emeritus Scientist at the National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (NIRRCH), Mumbai, India. With a prolific research career spanning several decades, she has made significant contributions to understanding male infertility, particularly the role of estrogen and its receptors in spermatogenesis. Her work also explores environmental toxins’ impact on reproductive health, such as bisphenol A’s influence on estrogen receptor methylation. She has authored numerous high-impact publications, book chapters, and a comprehensive book on epigenetics. An active collaborator in international research projects, she has been recognized with prestigious awards and fellowships for her groundbreaking scientific contributions.
Professional Profile
Scopus
ORCID
Google Scholar
Education 🎓
Dr. Balasinor completed her B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Life Sciences from the University of Mumbai, India. She then pursued a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the same university, focusing on reproductive molecular biology. To further enhance her expertise, she received the prestigious DBT Overseas Associateship, allowing her to conduct advanced research at the University of Illinois, USA. Her academic journey has equipped her with extensive knowledge in endocrinology, molecular genetics, and biochemical pathways influencing fertility and epigenetics. Through interdisciplinary training and collaborations, she has gained a deep understanding of molecular biology applications in reproductive health, making her a leading expert in the field.
Professional Experience 💼
Dr. Balasinor has had a distinguished career, progressing through various scientific roles at NIRRCH, Mumbai, where she served as Scientist C-G before her current position as an ICMR-Emeritus Scientist. Her expertise has also been recognized internationally, leading to collaborations with renowned institutions such as Georgetown University, USA, alongside Professor Martin Dym. She has also played a key role in editorial boards and peer-reviewed numerous manuscripts for high-impact journals. With 15 completed research projects and 78 publications in indexed journals, she has significantly contributed to molecular and reproductive biology.
Research Interests 🎡
Dr. Balasinor’s research primarily revolves around reproductive epigenetics, male infertility, and the effects of environmental toxins on reproductive health. Her work has shed light on estrogen’s role in spermatogenesis and how its receptors impact fertility. She has also investigated the epigenetic modifications in men contributing to gestational disorders like preeclampsia and recurrent spontaneous abortions. Another critical area of her research is the impact of endocrine disruptors, such as bisphenol A, on gene expression and reproductive outcomes. Her findings have major implications for reproductive health, toxicology, and personalized medicine.
Awards & Honors 🏆
Dr. Balasinor’s contributions to molecular biology and reproductive sciences have earned her numerous accolades. Notable recognitions include:
- ICMR Smt. Swaran Dingley Oration Award (2009) for outstanding contributions to reproductive biology.
- Prof. G. P. Talwar Middle Career Scientist Award (2011) from the Indian Society for the Study of Reproduction and Fertility.
- R.K. Laumas Oration (2018) at the XXVI Annual Congress of the Society of Andrology, India.
- Elected Fellow (2017) of the National Academy of Sciences, India.
Her achievements highlight her commitment to advancing reproductive science through innovative research.
Top Noted Publications & Citations 📚
Dr. Balasinor has authored 78 peer-reviewed journal articles, many of which have been published in high-impact scientific journals. Some of her notable publications include:
-
Multiple Tissue-Specific Epigenetic Alterations Regulate Estrogen Receptor Beta Expression in Male Infertility” (2022): This study explores how epigenetic modifications influence the expression of estrogen receptor beta in various tissues, shedding light on their role in male infertility.
-
“Epigenetic Alteration Shaped by the Environmental Chemical Bisphenol A” (2021): This review discusses how exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) can lead to epigenetic changes, particularly DNA methylation, in sperm cells, potentially affecting male fertility.
-
“Effect of Estrogen Receptor-Subtype-Specific Ligands on Fertility in Male Mice” (2020): This research examines the molecular mechanisms by which estrogen influences spermatogenesis, focusing on the roles of different estrogen receptor subtypes in male fertility.
Conclusion
Dr. Nafisa Huseni Balasinor is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her long-standing contributions to molecular biology, reproductive health, and epigenetics. Her publication record, international collaboration, prestigious awards, and academic influence make her a strong contender. However, strengthening her citation impact, industry collaborations, and ongoing research engagement would further enhance her nomination.