About AcREM-STEM

Advanced Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Research in Cutaneous Biology

Department of Zoology, University of Kerala, Kariavattom Campus

A Centre of Excellence in Regenerative and Translational Life Sciences

The Advanced Centre for Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Research in Cutaneous Biology (AcREM-STEM) is a premier research and training centre functioning under the Department of Zoology, University of Kerala, located at the Kariavattom Campus. Established with the vision of advancing frontiers in life sciences, AcREM-STEM is committed to high-impact research, advanced education, and innovation in the rapidly evolving fields of regenerative medicine, stem cell biology, and cutaneous research.

The Centre focuses on understanding fundamental biological mechanisms and translating laboratory discoveries into clinical and societal applications. With a strong emphasis on quality, ethics, and global scientific standards, AcREM-STEM plays a pivotal role in nurturing future scientists and developing solutions for human health and disease.

About
About
About

Core Research Domains

AcREM-STEM conducts comprehensive research across a wide spectrum of interdisciplinary areas, including

  • Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology
  • Cutaneous Biology and Skin Regeneration
  • Healthy Ageing and Longevity Research
  • Cancer Biology and Tumour Microenvironment
  • Ayurveda Biology and Integrative Medicine
  • Skin and Hair Microbiome Studies
  • Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering
  • Genomics, Molecular Diagnostics, and Systems Biology

These research themes are designed to bridge basic science with clinical and translational applications, contributing to both national priorities and global scientific advancement.

Interdisciplinary and Translational Approach

The Centre functions as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together expertise in

  • Cell and Molecular Biology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Biomaterials and Nanotechnology
  • Genomics and Bioinformatics
  • Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Alternative Animal Models and Behavioural Biology

By integrating multiple scientific disciplines, AcREM-STEM addresses complex biological problems related to skin, ageing, disease progression, and regeneration, ensuring a holistic and translational research ecosystem.

Advanced Experimental Facilities

AcREM-STEM offers comprehensive experimental platforms for

  • In Vitro Studies: Cell culture, stem cell differentiation, molecular and biochemical assays
  • In Vivo Studies: Small animal models, disease modelling, regenerative and behavioural studies
  • Ex Vivo Systems: Tissue explants and organotypic culture models
  • Behavioural Analysis: Functional and neuro-behavioural assessments using alternative animal models
  • Specialized expertise in the handling and ethical use of alternative animal models further strengthens the Centre's research capabilities.
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Precision Research with Global Standards

The Centre is equipped with advanced, state-of-the-art instrumentation and core facilities that support high-resolution imaging, molecular analysis, genomics, proteomics, and biomaterial characterization. The infrastructure is designed to ensure

  • High-quality, reproducible, and validated research outputs
  • Compliance with national and international regulatory and biosafety standards
  • An enabling environment for innovation, product development, and technology translation

These facilities provide students, researchers, and collaborators access to world-class resources for cutting-edge scientific investigation.

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Academic Training and Capacity Building

AcREM-STEM is actively involved in

  • Postgraduate and Doctoral Training
  • Specialized Skill Development Programs
  • Workshops, Seminars, and International Conferences
  • Collaborative Research and Exchange Programs

The Centre aims to cultivate scientific excellence, critical thinking, and ethical research practices among young researchers and professionals.

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Vision

To emerge as a globally recognized centre of excellence in regenerative medicine and cutaneous biology, fostering innovation, interdisciplinary research, and translational outcomes that contribute to improved healthcare and sustainable scientific developmentg

Mission

  • To conduct high-impact, internationally competitive research in stem cell and regenerative biology
  • To integrate traditional knowledge systems such as Ayurveda with modern biomedical science
  • To develop advanced experimental models and technologies for skin and ageing research
  • To promote industry, clinical, and academic collaborations
  • To train the next generation of scientists and innovators

These research themes are designed to bridge basic science with clinical and translational applications, contributing to both national priorities and global scientific advancement.

Leadership, Expertise, and Academic Excellence

Driving Innovation in Regenerative and Translational Life Sciences

Director's Profile

Dr. Sreejith P Hon. Director, AcREM-STEM

Head of the Department & Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, University of Kerala

Dr. Sreejith Parameswara Panicker is an accomplished academician and researcher serving as Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology, University of Kerala, and the Hon. Director of the Advanced Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research in Cutaneous Biology (AcREM-STEM).

His research interests encompass regenerative medicine, stem cell biology, and cutaneous science, with special emphasis on hair and skin regeneration, immunomodulation, host-microbiome interactions, ageing biology, and translational therapeutics. Dr. Panicker has undertaken postdoctoral research in the United States and has contributed significantly to the scientific community through peer-reviewed publications and book chapters.

A committed mentor and academic leader, he actively guides postgraduate and doctoral scholars and promotes interdisciplinary and translational research aimed at bridging basic biological discoveries with clinical and societal applications.

Adjunct Faculty

Dr Kesav K.Singh

Joy and Bill Harbert Endowed Chair in Cancer Genetics Professor of Genetics | Pathology | Dermatology | Environmental Health Founding Editor-in-Chief, Mitochondrion Journal Director, Cancer Genetics Program Adjunct Faculty Member, AcREM-STEM

Dr. Kesav K. Singh is an internationally renowned scientist and academic leader in cancer genetics and mitochondrial biology. His association with AcREM-STEM as Adjunct Faculty strengthens the Centre's global research network and enhances its expertise in translational oncology, genetics, and molecular medicine.

Emeritus Scientist

Dr. Malini Laloraya, FNASc., FRE

Emeritus Scientist (ICMR), AcREM-STEM, University of Kerala Associate Editor, Reproduction (Society for Reproduction and Fertility, UK) Former Scientist G (Professor), Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, India

Dr. Malini Laloraya is a distinguished reproductive biologist and Fellow of the National Academy of Sciences, India. With an illustrious career in biomedical research and academic leadership, she brings vast experience in molecular and cellular biology, reproductive science, and translational research to AcREM-STEM.

Medical Director

Dr.S.A.Hafiz

MBBS, DGM (Geri), MS (UK), MSc (Regenerative Medicine), FRCP (Glasgow), FRCP (Edinburgh) Hon. Medical Director, AcREM-STEM Deputy Director of Health Services & Principal, Kerala State Institute of Health and Family Welfare, Thiruvananthapuram

Dr. S. A. Hafiz is a senior physician and academic administrator with extensive expertise in geriatric medicine, regenerative medicine, and public health systems. As the Medical Director of AcREM-STEM, he provides critical clinical insight and strategic guidance for translational research, clinical integration, and health policy relevance.

Powered by Collaboration Beyond the Core Team

Research excellence powered by collaboration, commitment, and collective expertise.”

Dr. Najeeb S

Post Doctoral Fellow

Exploring the Role of Triphala in Enhancing Mitochondrial Efficiency for Healthier Skin Aging

Dr. Mithra. S. Mohan

Research Associate

Phytochemical, Metabolic, Anti-ageing and immunomodulatory properties of rasayanas

Dr. Parvathy C A

Research Associate

Hair follicle length extension study utilising hair oil formulations

Soumya VS

PhD Scholar

Antiproliferative and Apoptotic effects of Plant Products from Wrightia tinctoria, Tragia involucrata, Aristolochia indica

Pravi Prasad

PhD Scholar

Inquisitive on Plant-based Research Approaches for Understanding and Improving Cutaneous Health.

AMALA VINCENT

PhD Scholar

Studies on Exosomes in Hair Follicle Systems

Anjana M Babu

Project Fellow

Gut Microbiome Dysbiosis in Alopecia

Simi K Varghese

KSCSTE KBC IBRS Fellow

PRP-Based Molecular Approaches in Maintaining Hair Homeostasis

Team Highlights

  • Internationally recognized academic and clinical leadership
  • Strong integration of basic science, translational research, and clinical expertise
  • Global research collaborations and editorial leadership
  • Commitment to mentoring, innovation, and evidence-based regenerative medicine
  • Strategic vision for advancing cutaneous biology, ageing research, and integrative therapeutics