Showing papers by "Department of Biotechnology published in 1999"

Biochemical and Molecular Basis of Pesticide Degradation by Microorganisms

Abstract: (1999). Biochemical and Molecular Basis of Pesticide Degradation by Microorganisms. Critical Reviews in Biotechnology: Vol. 19, No. 3, pp. 197-225.

In vitro propagation of Valeriana jatamansi

Abstract: Valeriana jatamansi Jones is an important medicinal plant. This wild herb is being exploited for its roots and rhizomes which contain valepotriates, which are highly effective against leprosy. The aim of this study was to establish a practical method for rapid and large-scale multiplication of V. jatamansi by induction of shoot proliferation from shoot buds. The sterilized explants were established on solid medium supplemented with benzyl adenine alone or in combination with indole-acetic acid or naphthalene acetic acid. The buds cultured on nutrient medium supplemented with BA and IAA or NAA formed shoots, which after 3-4 weeks produced roots on the same medium. One hundred per cent survival was obtained on hardening and field establishment of well rooted shoots.

Detection of influenza virus induced DNA damage by comet assay.

Abstract: Influenza virus A2/HK/68 is known to be a biological mutagen and teratogen. Reports are available implicating influenza virus as a causative agent of chromosomal aberrations in cells in culture and also in circulating leukocytes of humans. Also, an increased incidence of abortions, prenatal mortality and congenital abnormalities during the periods of epidemics has also been reported. In view of these reports, it would be worthwhile to screen persons especially pregnant women exposed to influenza virus for possible DNA damage. The present study reports the use of Comet assay to measure influenza virus induced DNA damage. We have carried out in vitro infection experiments using human leukocytes. Our results clearly indicate that influenza virus A2/HK/68 induces DNA damage in leukocytes right from 2-h post-infection. Maximum damage was observed at 24-h post-infection. However, at 48-h post-infection, a slight decrease was observed which can be attributed to the DNA repair occurring in the cells. Thereafter, irreparable damage was noticed. Cell viability results have shown lack of cytotoxicity till 72-h post-infection. However, significant cytotoxicity was observed only at 96-h post-infection. The occurrence of DNA damage without cell death may result in chromosomal aberrations or mutations. Therefore, it is most advisable to get screened for the possible DNA damage especially persons frequently infected with influenza and pregnant women.