Vet Med Faces of Research: Dr. Rudra Channappanavar
Wednesday, April 6, 2022
Media Contact: Kaylie Wehr | College of Veterinary Medicine | 405-744-6740 | kaylie.wehr@okstate.edu
Rudra Channappanavar, DVM, MVSc, Ph.D., is an assistant professor in the Department of Veterinary Pathobiology at Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Throughout his 16-year research career, he has studied viral immunology and for the last 10 years, Channappanavar has focused on coronavirus research.
“We specifically study how the coronaviruses cause severe disease and what is the basis for it,” Channappanavar said. “We test different antivirals and vaccines to diminish the coronaviruses. We also study why coronaviruses cause serious disease in men — as well as in elderly individuals — compared to females and younger individuals.
“Our work impacts people and animals as we aim to contribute to the understanding of and to the knowledge of coronavirus infections. We are testing coronavirus vaccines and antivirals in animal model systems to determine the efficacy and safety of the treatments so that we can move these forward to clinical trials in humans. We are also training the next generation of scientists, which is a very important part of the education and research system. Knowing we are improving public health through our research program excites me. Our research to understand coronavirus disease is key to developing and testing new vaccines and antivirals to prevent and treat this deadly disease that we are seeing right now.
“As a researcher, finding the answer to a long-standing question in the field of coronavirus research, makes me smile. Also seeing the next generation of scientists, students and trainees succeed in their research endeavors makes me smile. As for success in research, I have a different take on it. I don’t see a success or failure in research. I see it as a process, a journey that one should be able to enjoy.
“To the public in general I want them to know that we still have an ongoing pandemic. Please listen to the scientists and get vaccinated. Vaccines protect people from severe disease. Take antivirals and wear masks to protect yourself, your family and friends and the public in general. And for those considering a career in research, research is exciting. It is inspiring and rewarding. Through research you will be able to make big differences and improve public health. I encourage students interested in coronavirus research to contact our lab, pursue that dream and consider research as a career option.”
Vet Med Faces of Research is a monthly series designed to inform the public about the impact of the numerous studies being conducted at OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. Advancing knowledge and understanding for the benefit of the lives and livelihoods of the people of Oklahoma is a critical element of OSU’s land-grant mission. If you would like to support research at the college, please contact Ashley Hesser, director of development with the OSU Foundation, at 405-385-0715 or ahesser@osugiving.com.