Volume II No.

2 April 2007

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Newsletter of the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India

http://www.biotechnews.gov.in

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C O N T E N T S
Readers mail Feature
Biosafety of Bt-Crops

2 3

Cutting Edge
DNA Banking
J. L. Karihaloo

Kaleidoscope

Genetic Interest

Bio-resources Database

11

Documenting life

K. N. Ganeshaiah and R. Uma Shaanker

Safe Transition
P. Anand Kumar

Profile

Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology

News Desk Notice Board

14 16

Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India

Readers mail
Response
I find Biotech News a very useful read as it exposes me to the varied developments are taking place in India in the fast emerging biotech sector. With our vast pool of scientific talent, wide domestic demand base for biotechnological innovations and our entrepreneurial spirit, we can indeed play a useful and leadership role in the field of biotechnology. The articles highlighting potential of biotechnology in enhancing food security as well as those focusing on medical applications of biotechnology were indeed very informative. International collaborations and tie-ups are going to be very important for not only developing new applications and testing their efficacy prior to commercialisation but also to continually enhance the skills of Indian scientists. Biotech news should have wider circulation. It could perhaps be sent to Indian missions abroad such that achievements of India in biotechnology could be disseminated to a greater extent. Sandeep Chakravorty, OSD (Press Relations) Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi. Since the setting up of the Department of Biotechnology with Dr. S. Ramachandran as its founder secretary in the early 1980s, the government has provided enormous support and created facilities in the form of several national research laboratories and university departments. The fruits of this endeavor have started manifesting in several sectors such as health/diseases, agriculture, industry, etc. since the mid-90s. Biotech News has a crucial role to play in the dissemination of the exciting happenings in the field of biotechnology as it is one major source of authentic information on this frontier science. I suggest that the newsletter also provides its readers a short summary of the major international research findings and news items apart from the Newsdesk which reports mainly on India-related events. Debi P. Sarkar, Department of Biochemistry, University of Delhi South Campus, New Delhi.

To the readers
It has been over a year since Biotech News was re-launched with a new face and periodicity. During this period, we have tried to highlight the varied facets of Indian biotechnology. That you have liked our efforts is evident from your mails and telephone calls. We are very grateful to you for your support. As you will notice, the current issue of Biotech News includes a special 12-page supplement as a curtain raiser to the Bio International Convention to be held at Boston, MA, USA during 6-9 May 2007. Considered by many to be the 'biggest biotech show of the world', the Boston Bio is expected to attract more than 18,000 participants and feature 60 pavilions, 1700 exhibitors, 1000 speakers and 190 sessions. In partnership with the Confederation of Indian Industry, DBT is sending a Mission to the Convention. India, with its vast resources of scientific talent, has made notable progress in biotechnology over the last few years and the special supplement attempts to showcase the achievements and potential of Indian biotechnology in HRD, agriculture, health, energy and industry and related areas, and point out gaps that need urgent attention. All the contributors to this issue responded to our calls for write ups at short notice and we are grateful to all of them, I do hope you will enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together. As always, I urge you to send your views and suggestions to us. Finally, let me inform the readers that we are trying to increase our print run so as to include more of you on our mailing list. However, please note that you can subscribe to the e-version of Biotech News at http://www.biotechnews.gov.in free of cost. S. Natesh Editor in Chief Natesh@dbt.nic.in

Biosafety of Bt-Crops

P. Ananda Kumar, NRC on Plant Biotechnology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (polumetla@hotmail.com)

Safe Transition

Introduction
Insect pest management in agriculture is important to safeguard crop yields and productivity. A large number of chemical insecticides that effectively control insect pests have been proven to be harmful to human health and environment. There is a need to reduce the dependence on pesticides by using safer alternatives to manage insect pests. Many insecticidal proteins and molecules are available in nature, which are effective against agriculturally important pests but innocuous to mammals, beneficial insects and other

in size, shape and morphology. The crystals are tightly packed with proteins called protoxins or-endotoxins. There are many subspecies and serotypes of Bt with a range of well-characterized insecticidal proteins or Bt toxins (-endotoxins). At present it has been estimated that over 60,000 isolates of Bt are being maintained in culture collections worldwide. Known Bt toxins kill subsets of insects among the Lepidoptera, Coleoptera, Diptera and nematodes. The host range of Bt has expanded considerably in recent years due to extensive screening programs. Currently more than 140 different genes encoding Bt toxins have been cloned. Recent information about Bt toxins/genes can be obtained from http://www.biols.susx.ac.uk/Home/Neil_Crickmore/Bt/.

Feature

The first
record on Bt goes back to 1901, when a Japanese microbiologist Ishiwata discovered a bacterium from diseased silkworm larvae, which he named Bacillus sotto

SPORE

CRYSTAL

Mode of action
C Domain III

N Domain I Domain II

CRYSTALS

Bt-TOXIN

organisms. Insecticidal proteins present in the soil borne bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which has demonstrated its efficacy as a spray formulation in agriculture over the past five decades, have been expressed in many crop species with positive results (Kumar et al., 1996). Bttransgenic crop species (cotton, corn, rice, tomato and potato) have been commercialized with substantial benefits to the farmers (Kumar 2003). Bt crops were cultivated in an area of 32.1 million hectares out of the global transgenic area of 102.0 million hectares in 2006 (James 2006).

Mechanism of Toxin Action

1.Crystal and spore eaten by insect Toxin Aminopeptidase-N

2.Crystal dissolves and protoxin is process to smaller 'active' form by gut enzymes

Bacillus thuringiensis
Bt is a gram-positive, aerobic, endospore-forming bacterium belonging to morphological group I along with Bacillus cereus, Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus laterosporus. All these bacteria have endospores. Bt, however, is recognized by its parasporal body (known as the crystal) that is proteinaceous in nature (see figure above) and which possesses insecticidal properties. The parasporal body comprises of crystals varying

GPI-anchor 3. Activated toxin bind to receptor in the midgut epithelium 4. Toxin inserts into the membrane making it permeable to ions and small molecules so that the cell bursts

Mechanism of action of a typical Bt toxin

of the charge. It appears that the toxin forms or activates a relatively large aqueous channel in the membrane. The disruption of gut integrity results in the death of the insect from starvation or septicemia.

Bacillus thuringiensis with spore and crystal

The Bt toxins exert their toxicity by forming pores in the larval midgut epithelial membranes. Initially the protoxins are activated in the midgut by trypsin-like proteases to toxins (see figure below). The active toxins bind to specific receptors located on the apical brush border membrane of the columnar cells. Binding is followed by insertion of the toxin into the apical membrane leading to pore formation (see figure below). The formation of toxin-induced pores in the columnar cell apical membrane allows rapid fluxes of ions. Different studies revealed that the pores are K+ selective, permeable to cations, anions or permeable to small solutes like sucrose, irrespective

Biosafety of Bt-Crops Safe Transition

Feature

Applications of Bt
The first practical application of Bt dates back to 1938 when it was sold as 'Sporeine' in France for the control of European corn borer. The growing realization that organic insecticides are deleterious to the environment and human health spurred a renewed interest in Bt in the 1960s, which led to the introduction of viable Bt biopesticides like Thuricide and Dipel.

a dozen countries cultivate Bt-crops. Bt-cotton was permitted for commercial cultivation in India in 2002.

Biosafety
Safety of Bt toxins in terms of toxicity and allergenicity towards mammals and other non-target organisms is well documented (Glare and O'Callaghan, 2000). The salient features are: Lack of receptors that bind to Bt toxins and instant degradation of Bt toxins in human digestive system make them innocuous to human beings. Community exposure to Bt toxins/spray formulations over a period of six decades has not resulted in any adverse effects. Lack of homology to any allergenic protein/epitope sequences makes Bt toxins non-allergenic. Consumption of foods derived from Bt corn, potato, tomato and rice over the past one decade has not led to any adverse effects in the populations. Federation of Animal Societies of USA (2001) observed that Bt crop products (corn) fed to chicken-broilers, chicken-layers, catfish, swine, sheep, lactating dairy cattle and beef cattle did not show any adverse effects on growth, performance, observed health of the animals and composition of meal, milk, eggs, etc., Dairy cows fed with corn and Bt-corn did not exhibit any significant differences in lactation and ruminal fermentation Bt, Bt-sprays, Bt-crops and Bt-crop products are safe to non-target organisms such as soil microorganisms (protozoa and fungi) collembola, molluscs, crustaceans, spiders, aquatic insects, predators, parasitoids, arthropods, honey bees, lady bird beetles, earthworms, salamanders, bird species, small and large mammals, etc.

Between 1909
and 1912, Berliner, working at a research station for grain processing in Germany, investigated an infectious disease of the Mediterranean flour moth and described a spore-forming bacterium as the causative agent and designated it as B.thuringiensis Insect damage in normal and Bt-cotton bolls

Bt is the most popular biological control agent with worldwide sales of about $100 million. Bt spray formulations comprise 5% of total global pesticide market. The use of conventional Bt biopesticides, however, was found to have limitations like narrow specificity, short shelf life, low potency, lack of systemic activity, and the presence of viable spores. An elegant and most effective delivery system for Bt toxins is the transgenic plant. The major benefits of this system are economic, environmental, and qualitative. In addition to the reduced input cost to the farmer, the transgenic plants provide season-long protection independent of weather conditions, effective control of burrowing insects difficult to reach with sprays and control at all of the stages of insect development. The important feature of such a system is that only insects infesting the crop are exposed to the toxin. Introduction and expression of Bt genes in crop plants conferred significant protection against target pests. The first transgenic Bt-crops viz., cotton, corn and potato were commercialized in USA in 1995 and 1996. Currently more than

Benefits of Bt-crops
The International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-biotech Applications (ISAAA) conducted a detailed survey of the Btcotton cultivation, adoption and performance in eight countries (USA, Australia, China, India, Mexico, Argentina, South Africa and Indonesia) in 2002 (James, 2002). All the countries that have introduced Bt cotton have derived significant and multiple benefits. These include increases in yield, decreased production costs, a reduction of at least 50% in insecticide applications resulting in substantial environmental and health benefits to small producers, and significant economic and social benefits. In a recent study at Indian Institute of

Biosafety of Bt-Crops Safe Transition

Management (Ahmedabad), Gandhi and Namboodiri (2006) observed that cotton farmers in major cotton-growing states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu were benefited significantly. On a global basis, the benefits from the deployment of Bt cotton between 1998 and 2001 were estimated to be $1.7 billion. Surveys conducted among small resource-poor farmers in developing countries, mainly in China and South Africa, revealed that Bt cotton contributed to reduction in poverty by increasing incomes of small farmers. The environmental benefits of cultivating pest-resistant transgenic crops are more profound and invisible. These are enumerated below: Reduction in use of pesticides: The estimated total savings of insecticides on Bt cotton in 2001 was of the order of 10,627 MT, which is equivalent to 13% of the 81,200 MT of all insecticides used on cotton globally in 2001. Fewer insecticides in aquifers and the environment: The substantial decrease in insecticides associated with the cultivation of Bt cotton has led to significant decrease in insecticide run off into watersheds, aquifers, soils and generally into the environment. More widespread global cultivation of Bt-cotton will further improve the water quality. Reduced farmer exposure to insecticides and improvement of human health: Substitution of the chemical insecticides with Bt cotton has clearly reduced the risks to farm workers and to others in the farm community who may be exposed to the formers toxicity. These effects are particularly important in developing countries where modern application techniques are neither always adopted nor available for use. Increased populations of beneficial insects: The global use of broad spectrum insecticides on cotton has adversely affected and decreased the populations of nontarget species including the arthropod natural enemies that can provide effective control of non-lepidopteran pests. Various studies confirmed that the arthropod natural enemy populations in Bt cotton are greater than in non-Bt cotton. In addition to reducing the number of sprays for the bollworm/budworm complex, Bt cotton has also reduced the number of sprays for other insects such as thrips and aphids. This effect has been attributed to higher populations of beneficial predators and parasitic insects that are eliminated by insecticide sprays. Reduced risk for wildlife: Reduction in the use of insecticides, many of which are highly toxic to wildlife will reduce the risks to mammals, birds, bees, fish and other organisms. Many birds are dependent on insects for food and their elimination through the use of insecticides deprives birds of their food source. Reduced fuel and raw material consumption and decreased pollution: Lowering the demand for insecticides through the use of Bt cotton reduces tractor fuel usage as a result of reduction in number of sprays, which in turn reduces air pollution. For example, in the Hebei Province of China, where adoption of Bt cotton increased dramatically from its introduction in 1997 to 97% in 2001, farmers have noticed a substantial improvement from the chronic air, soil and water pollution levels prior to the introduction of Bt cotton in 1997, caused by the intensive spraying of cotton with insecticides.

On a global
basis, the benefits from deployment of Bt cotton between 1998 and 2001 were estimated to be $1.7 billion. Surveys conducted among small resource-poor

Insect damage in normal and Bt-potato plants

farmers (mainly in China and South Africa) revealed that Bt cotton contributed to the reduction in poverty by increasing incomes of small farmers

The ecological benefits of cultivating Bt-crops were recently documented in a comprehensive manner by Sanvido et al. (2006). According to this study cultivation of Bt corn and Bt cotton resulted in significant environmental benefits. In conclusion, Bt crops are safe and beneficial to farmers, human society, non-target organisms, biodiversity and environment in general.

References
Dale, P. J., Clarke, B. and Fontes, E. M. G. 2002. Potential for the environmental impact of transgenic crops. Nature Biotechnology. 20: 567574. Gandhi, V. P. and Namboodiri, N. V. 2006. The adoption and economics of Btcotton in India. W.P. No. 2006-09-04, IIM, Ahmedabad Glare, T. R. and O'Callaghan, M. 2000. Bacillus thuringiensis: Biology, Ecology and Safety. John Wiley, Chichester. James, C. 2002. Global review of commercialized transgenic crops: 2001. Feature: Bt-cotton. ISAAA Brief No. 26, ISAAA, Ithaca. James, C. 2006. Global status of commercialized Biotech/GM crops. ISAAA Brief No. 35, ISAAA, Ithaca. Kumar, P. A., Sharma, R. P. and Malik,. V. S. 1996. Insecticidal proteins of Bacillus thuringiensis. Advances in Applied Microbiology. 42:1-43. Kumar, P. A. 2003. Insect pest-resistant transgenic crops. In: Advances in Microbial Control of Insect Pests, Upadhyay, R. K. Ed. pp. 71-82. Kluwer Academic, New York. Sanvido O, Stark M, Romeis J and Bigler F, 2006. Ecological benefits of genetically modified crops. Swiss Expert Committee on Biosafety, Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Switzerland.

DNA Banking

Genetic Interest
Cutting Edge

J. L. Karihaloo, Asia-Pacific Consortium on Agricultural Biotechnology, NASC Complex, Pusa, New Delhi (j.karihaloo@cgiar.org)

The concept
of DNA as a genebank resource has emerged out of the revolution in genomic information brought about by the analysis of DNA extracted from plant species in laboratories across the world

amplification products of polymerase chain reaction based experiments. Other biotechnology experiments require construction of DNA libraries, i.e. collection of segments of DNA containing several copies of the part of genome. These include clones of cDNA, cosmid, PAC (plasmid-derived artificial chromosomes), BAC (bacterial artificial chromosomes), YAC (yeast artificial chromosomes) etc. All these DNA forms are being envisioned as an important resource since the DNA can be utilized for several applications, viz. India is fortunate to characterizing the source have a high and varied material, understanding diversity of flora. The genetic and evolutionary country possesses 11.9% relationships between of the recorded world's taxa, functional analysis of plants including 49,219 genes, comparative higher plant species. India genomics and plant is homeland of 167 breeding. Thus, while so cultivated species and 329 far DNA samples have wild relatives of crop plants. been accumulating in It has about 30,000 to molecular biology and 50,000 indigenous land biotechnology laboratories races of cultivated plants. as a spin-off of ongoing projects, the realization of Over the last about 30 its vast potential has years, increasing concern Diveristy in Indian brinjal varieties is being expressed over the loss of biodiversity due to human prompted the consideration of DNA collections as a genetic and natural factors. Consequently, worldwide efforts are being resource. DNA bank is a particular type of genetic resource made towards conservation of wild and cultivated genetic bank that preserves and distributes the DNA samples and resources. There are two approaches to plant genetic provides associated information. resources conservation: In-situ conservation which refers to It must be mentioned here that at present we do not have the maintenance of plant populations in the habitat where they technology to raise plants from DNA, and DNA banks cannot naturally occur and evolve. Biosphere reserves and heritage replace conventional seed genebanks, in vitro repositories or sites are examples of in-situ conservation strategy. Ex-situ cryobanks. Hence, DNA banking is considered a conservation is done outside the natural habitat or outside the complementary conservation strategy that together with other production area, in facilities called genebanks, specially conservation strategies leads to an optimum and sustainable created for this purpose. Methods of ex-situ conservation use of genetic diversity. include storage of seeds in genebanks at subzero temperatures, maintaining in vitro cultures under slow growing conditions and immersion of tissues, embryos or seeds in DNA storage liquid nitrogen (cryopreservation), or maintenance of whole DNA is generally extracted from young growing leaves but can plants in field genebanks. also be obtained from seeds in genebanks and herbarium

The enormous diversity of world's flora and fauna has been the mainstay of human survival and well being. Genetic resources, comprising useful living organisms, fulfil our basic needs of food, shelter and clothing; provide valuable medicines, spices and materials for industrial products; and help in maintaining and ameliorating the environment. Genes available in wild plants and animals are being constantly used by breeders to improve yield, quality and nutritional value of crops and farm animals.

DNA banking
Another form of biological resource that offers tremendous opportunities of practical and academic value is the DNA. In fact, the concept of DNA as a genebank resource has emerged out of the revolution in genomic information brought about by the analysis of DNA extracted from numerous plant species in laboratories across the world. DNA may also be available as

specimens. The quality of DNA extracted depends upon the condition of the specimen before storage, the storage environment and the duration of storage. Standard protocols are available for DNA extraction, which involve removal of other cellular components while maintaining the integrity of DNA. The protocols need to be suitably modified for different species. Commercial DNA extraction kits, though expensive, are highly efficient in yielding good quality DNA. DNA is a highly stable molecule; degradation kinetics models suggest

DNA Banking Genetic Interest

highly stable molecule; degradation kinetics models suggest that fully hydrated DNA kept at room temperature takes about 10,000 years to depolymerise into small fragments. However, degradation due to presence of endonucleases and other cellular components in the extracted DNA can considerably hasten the process of degradation. With increasing fragmentation of DNA template, it's utility for providing useful information decreases progressively. Studies suggest that purified DNA dissolved in buffer, stores well up to 1-2 years at 40C, 4-7 years at -180 C and more than 4 years when stored at -800 C. It has been found that purification procedures used to remove degrading agents and PCR inhibitors may shear the DNA and also remove proteins that stabilized DNA tertiary structure. Long-term stability of extracted DNA is not fully studied. However, when dried, the extracted DNA shows greater stability. An alternative approach is to store cells and tissues rather than purified DNA, which avoids the uncertainties about the stability of DNA. Further, stored cells and tissues have added advantage of providing a continuous supply of DNA and enabling biochemical and molecular studies of living cells. In any case, it is not recommended that a DNA extract will exist in a bank without the original plant sample from which it has been extracted. Depending upon the available facilities, the reference sample may be in the form of a live plant in field repository, a propagule conserved in a genebank which can be recovered into a full plant, or a herbarium specimen. The DNA Bank at Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew (U.K) contains nearly 23,000 samples of plant genomic DNA stored 0 at -80 C. The bank has a large collection of orchid DNA samples and samples of rare and endangered species. The DNA extraction protocol includes a standard CTAB-chloroform extraction with ethanol precipitation and washing, followed by cleaning with caesium chloride/ethidium bromide gradient. The samples are clean enough to be stable at ambient temperature for several days, and for about 10 years under -800 C storage. The Missouri Botanical Garden stores dried samples of plant material, usually young leaves, in a walk-in 0 freezer maintained at -20 C. The International Rice Genome Sequencing Project is a consortium of 10 countries devoted to sequencing, functional analysis of genes and isolation of genes for important agronomic traits in rice. The DNA bank of National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences (Ibaraki, Japan) preserves, manages and provides access to the materials generated by the project for use of researchers throughout the world.

While so far
DNA samples have been accumulating in molecular biology and biotechnology laboratories as a spin-off of ongoing projects, the realization of its vast potential has prompted the consideration of DNA collections as a genetic resource

Opportunities for DNA banks

There are a number of areas in which DNA banks could make an impact in the near future. Most promising possibilities in this context are: Germplasm characterization and management: Detailed characterization of germplasm using a combination of phenotypic and molecular markers improves genebank management in several ways. It allows 1) detection of gaps in collections, identification of duplicates and redundancy, 2) provides valuable knowledge about molecular diversity, genetic and evolutionary relationships, and 3) allows identification of unique genotypes of special importance to genebanks and breeders. Marker-assisted selection: An important new role for genebanks having DNA samples of germplasms is the application of molecular techniques to identify genes controlling specific traits in collections of cultivated species and wild relatives DNA barcoding: Global efforts are underway to produce DNA barcodes of all the plant species on earth. DNA banks would greatly facilitate such efforts by providing the required species DNA and thus avoiding the need for undertaking expensive and time- consuming collection trips of depleting rare herbarium specimens. Exchange of genetic resources: It will be a lot easier to exchange genetic resources as DNA samples, rather than seed or vegetative propagules. Transboundary movement of seed and other planting material requires time consuming inspection and certification for freedom from pests and diseases. Exchanging DNA samples, on the other hand, avoids the need for time consuming and costly certification procedures.

DNA banks around the world

While DNA extraction is a routine activity of numerous laboratories working in diverse areas of genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology and biotechnology, DNA banking is not widespread. A recent worldwide survey by International Plant Genetic Resources Institute (now Bioversity International) revealed that of the 274 respondents from 77 countries, 51 (21%) stored DNA while the rest did not. The survey revealed that the majority of institutes do not store DNA due to budget constraints, insufficient infrastructure and lack of trained human resources. However, more than half of the above respondents indicated that they would consider DNA storage if the above constraints are removed. Some of the major plant DNA banks already operational in different parts of the world are: 1. Australian Plant DNA Bank, Lismore, Australia
(http://www.biobank.com)

2. DNA bank, Instituo de Pesquisas, Jardim Botanico de Rio deJaneiro, Brazi

(http://www.jbrj.gov.br/pesquisa/div_molecular/bancodna/sobre_ing.html )

3. Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri, USA (http://www.welbcenter.org/dna_banking.html) 4. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, Surrey, Great Britain
(http://www.kew.org/data/dnaBank/homepage.html)

5. South African National Biodiversity Institute DNA Bank, Kirstenbosch, South Africa
(http://www.sanbi.org/frames/researchfram.html)

DNA Banking Genetic Interest

Cutting Edge

A novel method of DNA distribution has been developed recently whereby DNA clones or PCR products are pasted directly on the pages of books for distribution to users. The National Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, Japan in collaboration with RIKEN Institute, Japan has constructed a DNA book for rice containing 32,000 clones. The DNA can be extracted from the paper and analysed for various purposes. DNA banking could constitute a complementary conservation strategy for safeguarding the genetic diversity of a crop's genepool, especially if combined with in vitro conservation or cryopreservation. DNA banks can also serve as back up or safety duplicates of the physical seed, field or in vitro collections, in case of catastrophic losses.

short life span of DNA is another limitation necessitating frequent replacement of DNA samples. Plant recovery: DNA banking cannot be considered as a substitute for conventional conservation strategies since technologies for regeneration of plants from stored DNA have not been developed so far. Resource and policy: The cost of establishing and operating a DNA laboratory can be quite prohibitive for some genebanks due to resource limitations. The ready availability of DNA extraction chemicals and other consumables, liquid nitrogen and unlimited power supply may be a problem at some locations. It is obvious that the use of marker technologies in genebank management requires significant additional funding and policy support. Intellectual property rights: Material Transfer Agreements (MTA) which regulate the usage and intellectual property rights (IPRs) of material transferred are specially designed for exchange of seed or vegetative propagules and do not consider IPR issues in the event of exchange of DNA samples. Given the concerns in the developing world about the protection of rights on its biodiversity, there is a need for adequate safeguards against the infringement of IPRs while exchanging DNA samples.

DNA banking
could constitute a complementary conservation strategy for safeguarding the genetic diversity of a crop's genepool, especially if combined with in vitro conservation or cryopreservation

Conclusions
Molecular marker based genetic diversity analyis in Indian cahew varities

Limitations of DNA banks

Though holding lot of promise and potential for future compilation, management, storage and referencing of earths genetic resources DNA Banking is faced with its own set of limitations. Methodologies: Several species with high concentrations of polysaccharides, proteins, tannins and lipids in cells pose problems in extraction of DNA of acceptable purity. Relatively

It is envisaged that DNA banks would develop as strategic components of genebanks providing basic information for improved genebank management and facilitating germplasm characterization and utilization. They would serve as a reference basis for evolutionary and comparative genomics studies and DNA barcoding. This, however, will require a proactive approach involving policy and financial support for not only establishment and operation of DNA banks, but for capacity building in molecular biology, genomics, bioinformatics, modern genetic resources management and Web-based networking tools.

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Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology

Uppal Road, Hyderabad, http://www.ccmb.res.in

Formally set up in April, 1977 as one of the constituent national laboratories of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has emerged as a premier multidisciplinary research organisation of the country. Operating at the very cutting edge of biological sciences, CCMB operates out of its sprawling 15 acre campus in Hyderabad that was dedicated to the nation by none other than the then Prime Minister (Late) Shri Rajiv Gandhi on March 26, 1987. The current mandate of CCMB is:
To carry out exploratory work in areas of biology with a view to aid the development of biochemical and biological technology in the country. To train people in the advanced areas of biology to serve the needs of development in these areas. To provide centralized facilities in the country for new and modern techniques in the inter-disciplinary areas of biology, To interact with other institutions doing basic or applied research in areas related to the activities of CCMB and, To collect, collate and disseminate information relevant to biological research.

Like other constituents of the CSIR, the funding for the CCMB too comes from its parent body. However, during the past few years, the Centre has been generating considerable resources from industrial tie-ups and research grants to achieve its above mandate. CCMB today has a staff strength of 725 out of which 85 are professional scientific staff. The highly qualified pool of professional staff is complemented by state of the art instrumentation facilities. CCMB has further added several new technical facilities during the last 4 years. These include:
Flow Cytometry Proteomics Lab National Facility for Transgenic and Gene Knock-out Mice Confocal Scanning Fluorescence Microscopy (CSFM) Automated DNA Sequencing Facility DNA Microarray Facility X-ray Crystallography

Profile

Research is
best carried out when you are fully committed and have not become a scientist by default. It is essential for the scientist that they should do what they like and exercise their freedom in choosing the problems

Dr. Lalji Singh

You have had considerable exposure to international research, having worked in Australia and England. What traits would you identify as fundamental for scientists to develop in order to do high quality research? Research is best carried out when you are fully committed and have not become a scientist by default. It is essential for the scientist that they should do what they like and exercise their freedom in choosing the problems. It is fundamental to scientists for their development that they work in free atmosphere keeping in view the international scenario of the scientific developments and should be able to comprehend what is going on around. Your institution has just celebrated its 30th birthday. Can you tell us what you envisage as the road map for CCMB in the coming years? The vision of CCMB has widened after the human genome was sequenced. The essential components of the roadmap of CCMB are the collection of experts in various upcoming areas, creation of modern facilities in order to enable them to pursue their research problems, and establish powerful network nationally as well as internationally to maximize the talents, capabilities and resources. Development of a scientific temper amongst the young generation, particularly children, is of paramount importance. What, in your view, is lacking in science education, which is impeding the development of the scientific mind? Unfortunately in India many of the teachers themselves are not in tune with the scientific temper, forget about imparting scientific temper to the students. Inculcation of scientific temper can be achieved through attitudinal development via rational thinking. Scientific Temper should be practiced as a way of life by setting up appropriate examples by their parents, teachers and advisors. What are the constraints you see in the development of basic research in the country? Is it simply resource constraint or other factors are involved? First and the foremost is that the best brains are not coming back to the country because of several reasons, which are well known. In addition to this, the other major constraints are lack of autonomy in the decision making of scientific programmes and policies at the institutional level, and the bureaucratic hurdles in practicing science efficiently in order to reach the time-bound goals. Resource constraint is not the only constraint, though it is one of the significant factors. However, other factors mentioned above also kill the enthusiasm of scientists and are responsible for losing on the cut-throat competition at the international level.
A Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University, Dr. Lalji Singh has research interests in Molecular basis of Sex-determination; DNA Fingerprinting and other DNA Technologies; Wildlife Conservation; Human Genome Analysis and Ancient DNA. Dr. Singh has received several awards including the New Millennium Plaque of Honor for outstanding services in the field of Biological Sciences as well as the Padm Shri. Dr.Lalji Singh spoke to Biotech News about the achievements and potential of CCMB.

The range and depth of research programs at CCMB highlights the fact that the institution has a good birds-eye view of its niche in the world of science.

Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology

Profile

CCMB is presently engaged in high quality basic research in the frontier areas of modern biology such as Biomedicine & Biotechnology, Genetics & Evolution, Genomics & Proteomics, Cell Biology and Development, Molecular Biology, Biophysics and Biochemistry, yielding information of great value in the form of new findings and leads, especially publications in journals of international esteem.

creation of the world's first framework linkage map of domestic buffalo genome as a marking tool for identifying genes for higher milk production and for better breeding programs. In its full-fledged micro-manipulation pisciculture laboratory, CCMB scientists have been working on a transgenic technology to increase the rate of growth of fish by manipulating the growth hormone in some of the commercially available fish. This way fish breeders can reduce the time needed for fish to reach their maximum size, thereby reducing feed costs and expenses of fish hatcheries.

CCMB
scientists have identified a gene useful in apomixes and isolated tissuespecific promoters, developed diseaseresistant rice varieties, DNA markers and methods for establishing seed purity, and have investigated the molecular basis of plant pathogen interactions

The Center also has launched key initiatives to align with critical societal needs. Notable in the context are: a)Setting up of Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Diagnostics (CDFD); b) Establishing Laboratory for Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) in Hyderabad (in The Center has filed 60 Gene Knockout Mice-Micro Manipulation collaboration with the DBT, national and international patents during the last 3 years on Andhra Pradesh Forest Department and the Central Zoo various processes, some of which have been granted. A few Authority of India) to help conserve endangered mega-cats important ones are: (such as lions, tigers, leopards) and bird species; c) Efforts in Economically produced gene products of therapeutic value the field of DNA-based Molecular Diagnostics to form the basis (USA, Japan & Europe) for further clinical research in genetic association and allelic Efficient delivery of the desired gene into cell for gene variation as well as in the development of diagnostic tools. therapy (USA) Sickle cell anemia, BCD, male infertility, pancreatitis and DNA markers for seed purity testing (USA & Bangladesh) Robert's syndrome are some such examples; d)Studying, in collaboration with Anthropological Survey of India, the human Lipases in foam to perform lipase catalysed reactions and genetic diversity in tribal and caste populations of India to Novel cationic lipids for efficient delivery of genes into cells (USA) better understand the genetic basis of complex diseases in both tribals and non-tribal population of the country; and Species identification (South Africa & USA) e)Help conserve the Toda Buffalo (endangered and endemic to Nilgiri hills of South India) using Microsatellite markers and National & International Recognition mitochondrial DNA analyses. Three decades of pioneering and tireless work has won the In the field of agricultural biotechnology, CCMB scientists institution both national and international accolades. These have identified a gene useful in apomixes and isolated tissueinclude Centre of Excellence Award by UNESCO; South specific promoters, developed disease-resistant rice varieties, Centre of Excellence for Research and Training Award by DNA markers and methods for establishing seed purity, and TWAS, Italy; FICCI Award for outstanding achievement in have investigated the molecular basis of plant pathogen Science and Technology in India; Membership of Human Proteome Organization (HUPO), USA. interactions. In the area of DNA markers technology for characterization of plant germ plasm resources, the center has i) developed molecular ID's of elite genotypes of rice useful for germplasm management; ii) analyzed FOUNDER germplasm of Coffea species useful for breeding efforts and management, and; iii) analyzed the whole spectrum of rice gene pool for Nodulin homologues useful for utilization of related gene pool in rice improvement. CCMB has also taken up a program on molecular characterization of buffalo biodiversity and signed a MoU with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) for creation of the world's first framework linkage map of domestic buffalo genome as a marking tool for identifying genes for CCMB has also bagged technology award and prizes from CSIR, New Delhi for developing a) DNA Fingerprinting technology (1992), b) recombinant DNA technology of saltinducible expression for protein production (2000), and c) Transgenic Drosophila system for screening and validation of potential anti-cancer agents (2003). Though on the ground since 1977 and with many milestones on the tracks it has left behind, CCMB has just made a beginning. With biotech sector In India now zeroing in on its full potential and new vistas opening up for scientific ingenuity, CCMB has much to look forward to in the years ahead.

10

Bio-resources Database

K. N. Ganeshaiah and R. Uma Shaanker, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore (kng@vsnl.com)

Documenting life

We have learnt, at a heavy cost though, that civilizations, century), documented the use of plants for treating various empires and cultures could emerge and grow, or, could decline human diseases. The second corresponds to colonial British and collapse, depending on how they use or abuse biological period (from 16th to 19th century) when a soldier turned resources. It is now well established that the ecological botanist Van Rheede (1678-1693), a surgeon turned naturalist disaster on the tiny Polynesian Easter Island, which resulted in Buchannan (1763-1829) and their like, documented Indian the collapse of its civilization within a few centuries of its floral resources with their traditional uses. Surprisingly, even occupation, was due to the over exploitation of the palm tree though the process of documenting the taxonomy and Jubelia sps (used as biodiversity of Indian How Rich is the Western Ghats? rollers to move huge flora and fauna was Ecological economists have evaluated that, among the 34 global biodiversity hotspots, stone statues!). As the actively taken up during Western Ghats occupies the fifth position in the economic potential of its biological p a l m s p e c i e s ( n o w resources. With 4500 species of plants, 140 mammals, 330 butterflies, 500 birds and the last century, there extinct) disappeared from over 200 frogs, 265 reptiles and 191 fresh water fishes, it is among the highly endemic were no systematic and the island they could not areas of the world. With the millions of humans living in and around it, and interacting with sustained attempt to it for several millennia, its resources have acquired special uses and hence have a high prepare the sailing boats catalogue the potential for bio-prospecting. It has several species that are already known for their high for hunting dolphins; bio-prospecting value and the Western Ghat team is working on arriving at an estimate of bioresources of the consequently they its economic value. country apart from the turned to hunt birds, A recent calculation by the team members has shown that the populations of just only visible effort of lizards and frogs on their one species viz., Nothapodytis nimmoniana available along the northern part of Western developing the Wealth of Ghat per se is worth 320 million US $. The mapping work by the teams would offer much island driving some of India. Clearly, the third more of such valuable plants. these species also to phase of documenting extinction. Having locked themselves in to the island and, bioresources of India began seriously in recent years, a having overexploited the resources, they fought among distinct feature being a shift from mere textual documentation themselves for the remaining limited food, and eventually to digital formats. killed each other pushing themselves to almost extinction. Recent developments in the in the field of IT, availability of Similarly, it has been recently argued that the emergence and requisite software expertise and the convergence of interests growth of the Vijayanagara empire in South India, the second among biologists and government agencies have combined richest empire in recent history (14th to 16th century) after together to provide a clear platform to develop digital Rome, could be attributed to the way they capitalized on their databases of bioresources. most important bioresources viz., sandalwood and spices (along with diamonds) to trade for horses and guns. Jeeva Sampada: A digital catalogue of That biological and other natural resources could play an important role in building stability and strength of a country has been known to Indians since a long time; Kautilya's (Chanakya) Arthashastra (~ 300 BC) exhorts the ruler to have a clear knowledge of the availability and distribution of important bioresources in their kingdom. Not surprisingly, in India, there has been a long history of documentation of bioresources of the country.

Kaleidoscope

ecent

developments in the area of IT, availability of requisite software expertise and convergence of interests among biologists and government agencies to develop an open ended bioresources data base, combined together to provide a platform to develop digital bioresources databases of

Indian bioresources

Documenting bioresources in India

There are three, not so distinct but discernible, phases in the documentation of Indian bioresources. The first refers to the early historic period spanning 1st to 4th century when Dhanvanthari, Charaka (2nd Century) and Sushrutha (4th

11

There have been several independent efforts within India to digitally document biological resources but only a few of these are accessible to all. Jeeva Samapda, developed by the National Bioresource Development Board, Department of Biotechnology, is one such database that is available on both CDs and the web (www.ibin.co.in) that provides information on plants, animals, marine and microbial resources of the country. The database for Jeeva Sampada is compiled by about 400 experts from about 150 institutes across the country and offers information on over 30,000 species of organisms. It offers data on taxonomy, common names, distribution, diagnostic features, images, propagation and harvesting

Bio-resources Database Documenting life

Kaleidoscope

techniques, processing techniques and products and economic use and potential of the organisms of different groups. The distribution maps are provided in a GIS-softwareindependent platform so that maps can be developed on any

plants, gums and resins, traditional beverages, etc.) and specific user driven requirements. The database also provides information on the advanced techniques of cultivation and harvesting. The CDs in particular are already in great demand from diverse end users, such as students, experts and scholars, bio-prospectors, forest managers and policy makers.

Jeeva
Sampada user can search the plant data based on common names (in at least 32 Indian language names), scientific names, different use categories and also based on specific need of the individual
Saraca asoca, an endangered plant of high economic value of Western Ghats

Indian Bioresources Information Network (IBIN)

Prompted by the progress and the utility of databases such as Jeeva Sampada and other similar efforts in the country, the DBT recently launched the Indian Bioresource Information Network (IBIN) aimed to be a one-stop shop for all information pertaining to the bioresources of the country. IBIN is designed to provide information on both spatial and non-spatial data sets. While the node for the spatial database is managed by Indian Institute of Remote Sensing at Dehra Dun, the non-spatial node is managed by the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bangalore. The database generated by these two nodes will be provided to end users with the help of a commonly accessible website. The webenabled portal of the IBIN (www.ibin.co.in) was also launched by Shri Kapil Sibal on July 25, 2006.

Windows loaded PC. The program is built on a fully indigenous software that is harmonized for all the groups of organisms. With about 82,00,000 records and a volume of about 7.0 GB, Jeeva Sampada is the most exhaustive and largest bioresources database ever put together in the country. Jeeva Sampada was released in the form of a set of ten CDs by Shri Kapil Sibal, Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, Government of India on July 25, 2006 in New Delhi.
The databases, especially in the CD format, are very user friendly and several search protocols are provided. For instance, the user can search the plant data based on common names (in at least 32 Indian language names), scientific names, different use categories (eight categories such as bio-pesticides, medicinal

Mapping the bioresources hot-spots of the country

The digital catalogues of bioresources are an important document for utilization and for protecting the IPR of our resources. To manage them in a sustainable manner, we need to also quantify and map the availability and harvesting intensities of bioresources. This calls for developing distribution maps of economically important resources and their populations in the important bioresource hotspots of the country. Accordingly, the

12

On the lighter side

Cambridge, 1953. Shortly before discovering the structure of DNA, Watson and Crick, depressed by their lack of progress, visit the local pub.

Bio-resources Database Documenting life

Rediscovering the Ghats Interesting discoveries made while mapping bioresources along Sahyadris.
Team from Kolhapur has identified and described a new species of Ceropegia anjenerica and a variety of Ceropegia oculata var. Satpudensis. Populations of Palaquium bourdillonii, Euphoria santapain, Nageia wallichiana were recorded only before 1900 AD. It is only now that these species have been rediscovered in places other than their original description. One the oldest populations of Saraca asoca (Asoka tree) a relic population planted during 300 AD near Banvasi in Karnataka has been located by the Sirsi team amidst the ruins of an old city which dates back to that period. The team from Kodagu has identified perhaps the world's biggest Phyllanthus emblica (amla) tree, which has a girth of over 300 cm (3.0 m) and a height of 30 meters. The team from Pune has identified the biggest Mimusops elengi tree in Maharastra. New populations of some of the rarest and economically important medicinal plants viz. Coscinium fenestratum and Dipterocarpus bourdillonii have been identified in Kodagu.

Databases
have already begun to facilitate the search of new (and hitherto unknown) distributional range of species and in the recovery of populations of species long thought to have been locally extinct

DBT has now launched a few national level network programs to estimate the availability by developing quantified maps of

Group of Animals
Laboratory Animals Birds Crab Fishes Fresh Water Fishes and Mollusc Shell fishes Prawn Total Amphibia Mammals Lizards Amphibia, Reptiles and Mammals Snakes Turtles & Tortoise Total Domestic Animal Resources Crop Pest Resources Total Animal Resources

Number of Species
173 1303 30 672 1075 72 1849 222 144 175 203 39 783 131 4647 8886

The data generated is keyed into a program that develops an updated map of the distribution of any group/species of plant(s) in grid format for the entire area. The investigators have already explored several populations of some of the most rare, endangered and threatened plant species (see Box on page11).

Mapping for mining

Mapping of India's bioresources on such a fine scale has predictably opened immense possibilities of mining the bioresources for a variety of end uses ranging from understanding processes to developing newer and novel products. The databases have already begun to facilitate the search of new (and hitherto unknown) distributional range of species and in the recovery of populations of species long thought to have been locally extinct. Semecarpus kathalakanensis (family Anacardiaceae) is an extremely rare and endemic canopy tree species of the Western Ghats with only four known populations. Application of GIS modeling tools along with the databases have recently led to the discovery of additional sites and populations of this species, clearly obviating, to some extent, the extreme threat of extinction the species was thought to have been facing. The spatial and non-spatial databases at IBIN have also begun to contribute to efforts in chemical prospecting. For example, using the distribution data bases, researchers have recently been able to prospect new populations of Nothapodytes nimmoniana (family Icancinaceae) for an important anti-cancer alkaloid, camptothecin (CPT). Not only have the studies indicated a substantial geographical variation with respect to the content of CPT, but have also led to the discovery of high yielding individuals and populations of the species. This could result in semidomesticating the species for meeting the high demand for this alkaloid. It is hoped that in the near future, IBIN, along with its constituent databases, shall drive the discovery of novel processes and products from the rich bioresources of the country.

Different groups of animal resources covered in Jeeva Sampada.

biological resources in the country. The distinct feature of these programs is the uniformity in the protocols being followed by the groups working in all the bio-resource areas. It is hoped that the data emerging from these enumerations would help in planning the sustainable utilization and conservation of valuable resources of the country. In its first phase, the program has been initiated in three bioresource hot spots of the country viz., Western Ghats, Eastern Himalayas and Eastern Ghats. Work has already begun along the 1600 KM stretch of the 1,40,000 sq kms of Western Ghats. The assessment is being done at perhaps the finest scale ever. For instance, the entire Western Ghats is divided into grids of ~ 6.5 km X 6.5 km and teams of taxonomists and field ecologists are scanning plant resources along these grids for the past two years.

13

News and Happenings

News Desk
DBT celebrates 21st Foundation Day
The 21st Foundation Day and Award distribution ceremony of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) was celebrated on 12th March, 2007 at the National Centre for Plant Genome Research (NCPGR), JNU, New Delhi. Presided over by Shri Kapil Sibal, Hon'ble Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences, the function was attended by representatives of foreign missions in India, former Secretaries of DBT and other senior officers of various scientific departments. Dr. M. K. Bhan, Secretary, DBT, took the opportunity to address the gathering and assure them that the Department would continue to make efforts for the country to be recognized as a global leader in the field of biotechnology. and Senior Women Bioscience Awards, Innovative Young Biotechnologists Award, and Distinguished Biotechnologist Awards were also presented to the awardees. The occasion was also used for the commercial launch of the Filarial Antibody Spot/Immunoblot Assay System for Rapid Detection of Filariasis developed by the Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University (Tamil Nadu). Shri Kapil Sibal in his address appreciated efforts of DBT and its staff members for their untiring and dedicated efforts in promoting biotechnology in India through various schemes and programs. He also stressed the need for expanding the physical and technical resources of DBT in the near future for facing new challenges. K. K. Khattar and Prachi Saroop (DBT)

In step with Japan

The visit of the Hon'ble Prime Minister to Japan in December, 2006, underlined the need of strengthening mutually beneficial research collaboration between scientific organizations of the two countries. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Department of Biotechnology, India and the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science & Technology, Japan in the field of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, was signed on February 12, 2007 by Shri N. S. Samant, Joint Secretary on behalf of Department of Biotechnology and Mr. Takayuki Matsuo, Director General, International Affairs Department, Japan.

A young student receiving Biology Scholarship Award from Shri Kapil Sibal on 21st DBT Foundation Day

The Hon'ble Minister presented the Biology Scholarships for the year 2006 to 56 students who topped in the CBSE and other Board Examinations for year 2005-06 and pursuing Biology as a main subject at graduate level. Thereafter, National Bio-scientist Award for Career Development, Young

Mr. Takayuki Matsuo and Shri N. S. Samant signing the MoU on collaborative research in the field of Biotechnology between India & Japan

14

Dr. T. P. Singh receiving the Distinguished Biotechnologist Award from Shri Kapil Sibal in presence of Dr. M.K. Bhan

The Cooperative Research Projects (CRPs) are to be negotiated in specific areas by both the parties and the nature and scope of each CRP will be determined in consultation with each other through joint workshops, seminars and exchange

News and Happenings

visits of scientists. The CRPs would have dedicated funding from both sides. Once areas for cooperation are identified, specific projects would be taken up through joint calls for proposals expected to be rolled out in the near future . Prachi Saroop (DBT) attended by leading researchers form both India and Canada and was a perfect amalgamation of academia and industry. Daylong deliberations that were coordinated by Dr. Alok Adholeya (TERI, India) and Dr. Terry McIntyre (Environment Canada, Canada) led to a consensus that enhancement of productivity of biofuel crops using biotechnological tools needs to be accorded immediate priority. Other priority areas identified were Lignocelluloses ethanol Pre-treatment; Microbial enzyme engineering; Fermentation processes; Pyrolysis &/or Gasification of Biomass for power, ethanol, green diesel production; Bio-refineries and Value added byproducts from residues of Bio-refining. In case of Glycerol, priority areas will be Alternative separation; Production of different derivatives of glycerol; Growth substrate for yeasts; Conversion to propylene glycol. Development of decentralized pilot scale biofuel production facilities was also identified as a key thrust area. Alok Adholeya (TERI)

Indo-Australia workshop on Bioremediation

An Indo-Australia workshop on Bioremediation: Biotechnological Interventions was held from 11th-13th March, 2007. The meeting was attended by 30 scientists including 12 from Australia. The objectives of the workshop were to: a) bring together the academia as well as other stakeholders from both the countries to access the current potential and expertise in the area of Bioremediation; b) to gain insights to the research objectives of both countries and look upon avenues available for complementing the same through collaboration and c) explore the possible linkages and collaborative research projects between Indian and Australian counterparts. The deliberations during the 3 day workshop were coordinated by Dr. Vibha Dhawan (India) and Mr. Philip Mulvey (Australia). Sundeep Sarin (DBT)

Setting new priorities in health biotechnology

DBT and National Research Council, Canada jointly organized a 3-Day Workshop on Health Biotechnology at New Delhi on 21st-23rd February, 2007. Inaugurated by Dr. M. K. Bhan, Secretary, DBT, the workshop was attended by some of the top health biotechnology professionals from both countries drawn from respective academic institutions, R&D laboratories and industry. The workshop identified the following thrust areas for focusing on the joint efforts of India and Canada under a collaborative program in the future: Vaccine formulations and delivery- adjuvants etc. for viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases I mmunomodulation C D40 based immunomodulation for autoimmune and infectious diseases M odulation of innate-immune response to India-specific HCV strains for elucidation of viral pathogenesis and development of therapeutics T herapeutics development against malaria and TB G enetics of anti-mycobacterial host response C anada- India public-private collaboration The workshop was organized under the aegis of Indo-Canada Collaborative Research Program in Biotechnology for which the Memoranda of Understanding was signed by DBT on 5th December , 2006 with National Research Council, Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food, Canada. Shailja Gupta (DBT)

Exploring Biofuels with Canada

The dangers of excessive dependence on oil require us to look at alternative ways to augment the supply of transportation fuels. There is a need to examine options that not only help reduce burgeoning imports but also reduce harmful emissions. Biofuels offer promising prospects in this context. In an effort aimed at the application of modern biotechnological tools for production of Biofuels, DBT supported a one day workshop: India-Canada Biofuels Workshop: Opportunities for Collaborations. Hosted by The Energy & Resources Institute (TERI) the workshop was

Participants of India Canada Biofuels Workshop with Dr. M. K. Bhan

15

Notice Board

Tech Transfer

Signal MF: Rapid Anti-Body Based Filarial Diagnostic Kit

The recent launch of the indigenously developed antibody detection kit marks a major milestone in the fight against filariasis. Over one third of the endemic population resides in India. The imported kits available in the market were not only expensive but were species specific, inapplicable on children below 10 years, and time consuming in administration. All this may well become history with the launch of the filarial diagnostic kit developed by Prof. P Kaliraj, Centre for Biotechnology, Anna University and his team in collaboration with Gujarat-based Span Diagnostics. Costing just Rs. 40, the kit can be used to test blood samples anytime of the day and can detect the presence of infections in just three minutes. The kit uses the anti-filarial antibody detection method considered to be the most sensitive and accurate way of diagnosing filariasis. The technology transfer of this rapid, antibody-based diagnostic kit Signal-MF was facilitated by DBT for commercialization. The kit has a good market in Africa, Asia, Central and South America where filariasis is common.

Forthcoming Events
1) International Workshop on Vermitechnology in Human Welfare Venue: Coimbatore, June 4th -7th, 2007, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore 2) Practical Course on Bioinformatics: Computer Methods in Molecular Biology Venue: Trieste, Italy, June 25th-29th, 2007, International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology at Trieste, Italy. Contact ICGEB directly for information and applications. 3) Theoretical and Practical Training Workshop in Proteomics and Protein Bioinformatics, Venue: Limpopo, South Africa, July 9th -13th 2007, University of Limpopo, South Africa and Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape town, South Africa. Contact Dr. Ignatious Ncube at ncubei@ul.ac.za 4) International Meeting on Plant Growth Substances (IPGSA) Venue: Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico, June 21st - 25th, 2007, Autonomous University of Mexico, Covarrubias. Write to Dr. Gladys Iliana Cassab directly for information and applications. Department of Biotechnology, Block 2, C.G.O. Complex, Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110003
Patron: Dr. M. K. Bhan, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Government of India Editor in Chief: Dr. S. Natesh, Sr. Advisor, DBT Executive Editor: Manoj Dabas Deputy Editor: Vinod Agarwal Editorial Advisory Committee: Renu Swarup, Shailja Gupta, Alka Sharma, Md. Aslam, K. S. Charak, Maushumi Rudra

Disclaimer: Views expressed in invited articles are those of the authors and not necessarily subscribed to, or endorsed by DBT or any other organisation associated with the publication of Biotech News.

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