Workshop on Network Pharmacology: Unfolding Multitude of Drug Targets

The Krishna Institute of Pharmacy, Karad, successfully conducted a One-day Workshop on Network Pharmacology: Unfolding Multitude of Drug Targets on Monday, 20th January 2025. The workshop was specifically organized for faculty members and postgraduate, and Ph.D. scholars to explore the emerging field of network pharmacology.

The workshop was convened by Dr N. R. Jadhav, Dean, and coordinated by Mr. Shivsharan B. Dhadde, Assistant Professor, Krishna Institute of Pharmacy, Karad. The resource person for the event was Dr Sanjay R. Ugare, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology, KLE’s College of Pharmacy, Belagavi, Karnataka.

The inaugural session commenced with a warm welcome note delivered by Dr Anuradha N. Chivate, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Krishna Institute of Pharmacy, Karad. Dean, Dr N. R. Jadhav welcomed the Chief Guest and resource person, Dr Sanjay R. Ugare and the Guest of Honor, Professor Kakasabeb Kore (Rajgad Dnyanpeeth's College of Pharmacy, Bhor, Pune), by offering bouquets.

In his introductory remarks, Dr N. R. Jadhav highlighted the importance of network pharmacology, especially in the context of Ayurveda, Homeopathy, and Oriental Medicines. He elaborated on the potential for collaboration with Ayurvedic colleges and practitioners to integrate network pharmacology for the scientific validation and traditional use of medicine.

Workshop Objectives

1. To provide an overview of network pharmacology and its role in modern drug discovery and development.
2. To explain the concepts of biological networks, including protein-protein interaction networks and gene regulatory networks.
3. To familiarize participants with databases and resources for network pharmacology data.
4. To introduce participants to software and tools for network analysis.
5. To explore the application of network pharmacology in predicting and analyzing drug-drug interactions.

Workshop Agenda

The workshop included both theoretical on Theory Behind Network Pharmacology and hands-on training sessions in Network Pharmacology Tools and Techniques. The theoretical session was held at the Krishna Institute of Pharmacy in the morning and hands-on training sessions was conducted in the Computer Laboratory of the Central Library in the afternoon.

Participants were introduced to various tools and databases such as Cytoscape, STRING, and other bioinformatics resources to construct and analyze drug-protein interaction networks.

Outcomes

The workshop achieved several outcomes, including:

• A deeper understanding of network pharmacology concepts and applications.
• Practical knowledge of tools and software used for network analysis.
• Insights into drug discovery, repurposing, and the identification of novel therapeutic targets.
• Opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants and experts.

The workshop received overwhelmingly positive feedback from participants, who found it informative, engaging, and well-structured.

Conclusion

The workshop concluded with remarks and a vote of thanks by Ms. Pratiksha Jadhav, Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology. She expressed gratitude to Dr Suresh Bhosale, Hon'ble Chancellor, Krishna Vishwa Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Karad for his encouragement and support. She extended heartfelt thanks to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Mrs. Neelam Mishra and the Registrar, Dr M. V. Ghorpade for their unwavering guidance. She also thanked Dr N. R. Jadhav for his constant support, Dr Sanjay R. Ugare for his insightful sessions, and all university officials who directly and indirectly contributed to the success of the workshop.

This workshop reflects the institute's commitment to promoting cutting-edge knowledge and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in the field of pharmaceutical research.