Saba Valadkhan

Saba Valadkhan, MD, PhD, is an Assistant Professor in the Departments of Molecular Biology and Microbiology and Biochemistry at Case Western Reserve University's School of Medicine. She is also a member of the Molecular Oncology Program at the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research focuses on the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in cellular processes, including viral infections (HIV/HCV), neurogenesis, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer progression.

Key research areas include:

• Interferon response regulation via lncRNAs during viral infections
• lncRNA-mediated reprogramming of non-neuronal cells into neurons
• lncRNA roles in cancer metastasis (e.g., BORG lncRNA in breast cancer)
• Neurodegenerative disease mechanisms linked to stress response pathways

Her lab employs computational and experimental approaches, including RNA-seq, ChIP-seq, and in vivo mouse models. Collaborations involve investigating HIV latency in microglial cells and therapeutic applications of lncRNA-based interventions.

Publications highlight breakthroughs in understanding lncRNA functions across diverse biological systems, with translational potential in regenerative medicine and cancer therapy.