SUBARATNAM
MUTHUKRISHNAN
Professor of biochemistry
Subaratnam
Muthukrishnan, professor of biochemistry at Kansas State University,
is known internationally for his contributions to insect and plant
molecular sciences. In his time at K-State, Muthukrishnan and his
associates have cloned several genes involved in plant defenses
against fungal pathogens and insect pests, scoring several firsts
in plant and insect gene cloning.
Muthukrishnan holds a patent on the use of a chitinase-based biopesticide, and he and his collaborators have developed varieties of crop plants and other plants more resistant to pests and disease. His laboratories examine the organization and functions of genes involved in the synthesis and turnover of the chitin in the exoskeleton of the red flour beetle. His research has been supported by more than $5 million in extramural funding.
In 2005 Muthukrishnan was part of a K-State research team that identified several enzymes involved in the synthesis, turnover and hardening of a beetle's exoskeleton or cuticle. The discovery could not only lead to better pest control, but also help create similar strong, lightweight materials for use in aircraft and armor.
Muthukrishnan and his wife, Asha, were named to the Manhattan Mercury newspaper's "Most Admired" list in 1998.
Muthukrishnan is a recipient of the 2006 Commerce Bank Distinguished Graduate Faculty Award. He also has received the William L. Stamey Award for Excellence in Teaching from K-State's College of Arts and Sciences. He has trained 10 doctoral students and 18 master's degree students at K-State.
He earned his doctorate in his native India from the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore. He did his postdoctoral work at several institutions in the United States before coming to K-State in 1980.
Muthukrishnan has been named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He has more than 140 refereed publications, is editor of the book, "Plant PR-Proteins," has served on various review panels for the National Science Foundation and has organized conference workshops.
Muthukrishnan can be reached at 785-532-6939 or e-mail to smk@k-state.edu.