Principal Scientist in the National Center for Natural Products Research
TCRC 2047
662-915-1577
Education:
- Ph.D. Cornell University
- M.S. Cornell University
- DTVM University of Edinburgh, Scotland
- DVM University of Agriculture, Pakistan
Appointment(s):
- Principal Scientist
Interests:
The development of natural products requires pre-clinical assessment in vertebrate animals. Dr. Ashfaq has developed several disease models in lab animals to evaluate novel compounds for infectious diseases, (like cryptococcosis, candidiasis, MRSA infections, Influenza virus), cancer and metabolic diseases like type-2 diabetes and obesity. Assessment of botanicals and commercially available medicines for potential liver injury in laboratory animals is also investigated. Using a guinea pig model, Dr. Ashfaq has worked on the development of prophylactic treatment of poison ivy contact dermatitis.