From Karnah to USA

In the calm village of Dildar, Karnah, against the majestic Himalayan canvas of Kashmir, a little boy sat gazing at the starry sky, envisioning a brighter future. That boy, Dr Ishtiaq Jeelani, will grow into a world-renowned scientist whose groundbreaking research offers hope to millions battling Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)—a silent, deadly liver disease.

His recent work, published in 'Science Translational Medicine', a leading scientific journal, marks an enormous achievement for global medical science and for Kashmir.

"This is not my success; it is testimony to perseverance, education, and my family's unwavering support and the mentoring given," said Dr Ishtiaq Jeelani.

From remote Dildar in Karnah of Jammu & Kashmir's Kupwara district, Dr Ishtiaq Jeelani has had a long journey. There is no change in that innate curiosity and thirst for knowing early on.
"I was always interested in the mystery of the world—how the body works, what makes the disease, and how to cure it," he said. "Living in a place like Dildar taught me that the best thing about living here was the ability to be a big dreamer."

Having shown exemplary performances at school, he shifted to Srinagar for higher studies from where he graduated in graduation in the University of Kashmir. Further, his academic climb began here. He completed a master's in chemistry from Pune University followed by a Ph.D. from Japan's Toyama University. It is in his work on complex natural compounds here that he sowed seeds of breakthroughs to come.

Currently a Postdoctoral Scientist at the University of California, San Diego, Dr. Ishtiaq Jeelani is at the forefront of research into metabolic disorders. His latest article in Science Translational Medicine is devoted to NASH, an advanced stage of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), characterized by inflammation of the liver, scarring, and severe conditions such as failure or cancer.

"NASH is often called a silent epidemic because symptoms don't show until significant damage has occurred. The global impact is staggering, and yet we lack effective treatments," Dr. Jeelani explained.

His research identified a key protein, Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 2-alpha (HIF-2α), as the driver of liver inflammation in NASH. His group demonstrated a means to halt the progression of the disease by inhibiting HIF-2α in specific liver cells, opening the door to targeted therapies.
Dr Jeelani’s work has the potential to change lives, offering new avenues for treating a disease that has long baffled the medical community.”

Beyond his scientific achievements, the story is an inspiration to countless young people of this region, especially those from underrepresented regions like Kashmir. His success story runs deep in the veins of Kashmir, where a vast majority of youth get left behind by political unrest and limited opportunities.

Dr. Ishtiaq's journey shows that with dedication and hard work, even the sky isn't the limit.
This responsibility is deeply personal for Dr. Jeelani. "I want young people in Kashmir to know that their dreams are valid. Yes, the road might be hard, but it's not impossible. If I can do it, so can they," he said.
It was not always easy, though, and Dr Jeelani remembers his early education days with limited

access to resources and the challenge of adapting to international academic environments.
"There were moments of doubt, but my focus never wavered. I was determined to contribute to science in a way that mattered," he reflected.

This determination is evident in his work ethic and groundbreaking research. His publication in Science Translational Medicine is more than a personal milestone; it is a significant step forward in the fight against liver diseases.

Dr Jeelani’s mission extends beyond academic research. He envisions a world where cutting-edge treatments for liver diseases like NASH are accessible and affordable.
"My ultimate goal is to bridge the gap between lab research and clinical application. Science should benefit everyone, not just a select few," he stressed.

As he continues on his research journey, Dr Jeelani remains deeply connected with his roots. "Kashmir is where I started, and it's there that my heart lies," he said. "Every success is dedicated to the land and its people.".

Dr. Jeelani’s work represents more than a scientific breakthrough; it’s a reminder of what’s possible when passion meets perseverance. His story is a shining example for young scientists worldwide, and his research offers new hope for millions battling liver disease.
"Science is about pushing boundaries and solving problems. It's about hope. And that's what I want my work to represent," he said.

By: Ishfaq Sayeed