Rajan S;Ramu P;Shewade D G;Adithan C
004432 Rajan S;Ramu P;Shewade D G;Adithan C (Pharmacogenomics Lab, Pharmacology Dep, JIPMER, Pondicherry-605 006) : Promoter region polymorphism of CYP11B2 (344 C
CYP11B2 gene encodes aldosterone synthase enzyme, which produces aldosterone. The objective of study was to establish the allele and genotype frequency of CYP11B2 (344 C>T) gene polymorphism in healthy volunteers of South Indian Tamilian population. Authors carried out the study in 424 unrelated healthy volunteers including both male and female subjects. Genotyping was done by PCR-RFLP method. The observed genotype and allele frequencies were compared with other major ethnic groups. The influence of blood pressure was also analyzed with respect to the genotypes. The allele frequency was 39.9 and 601% for wild type C allele and variant T allele, respectively. The diastolic blood pressure was found to be significantly higher in the variant TT homozygous genotypes in the total study subjects and also in the male subjects (p<0.05). Interethnic difference in the genotype and allele frequencies of CYP11B2 gene polymorphism was observed in the South Indian Tamilian population.
Praveena P;Ignacimuthu S
004431 Praveena P;Ignacimuthu S (NO, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College, Chennai-600 034) : In silico docking of ligand 3-hydroxy methyl xylitol with target protein ZnT-8 involved in type II diabetes. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 453-5.
ZnT-8 protein has been localized in insulin secretory granules. An automated molecule model for the target protein ZnT-8 was generated at Swiss 3D modeling. Ramachandran plot was used to determine the angles. ADMET properties were calculated for the ligand, 3-hydroxy methyl xylitol. Pre ADMET hyperchem tool was used to find the QSAR properties of the ligand. In silico docking of ligand 3-hydroxy methyl xylitol with target protein ZnT-8 involved in type II diabetes was carried out to assess the efficacy of the ligand in binding to the target. The study indicated high affinity between the ligand and the target protein, suggesting that 3-hydroxy methyl xylitol is a good drug to control blood glucose levels.
Panda A;Praveen B;Bisht S S
004430 Panda A;Praveen B;Bisht S S (Biotechnology Dep, Roland Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Berhampur-760 010) : Clinical and pathological status of haemoglobinopathies among pregnant women in southern Orissa. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 456-7.
Sixty-two pregnant women were categorized into four age groups and investigated to know the prevalence of haemoglobinopathies among them in and around Berhampur using sickling test, naked eye single tube red cell osmotic fragility test (NESTROFT), and haemoglobin electrophoresis. Out of the 62 pregnant women four cases of sickle cell trait and one of β-thalassaemia trait was found. There was no significant difference recorded in the blood cell indices between normal and sickle cell trait in pregnant women. Sickle cell haemoglobinopathy is prevalent among the general, scheduled caste followed by other backward class groups of southern Orissa and less HbS% was observed among the pregnant women which indicate the probable interaction of sickle hemoglobin with α- thalassemia.
Nikam T D;Ghane S G;Nehul J N;Barmukh R B
004429 Nikam T D;Ghane S G;Nehul J N;Barmukh R B (Botany Dep, University of Pune, Pune-411 007) : Induction of morphogenic callus and multiple shoot regeneration in Momordica cymbalaria Fenzl.. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 442-7.
An in vitro propagation protocol for a wild vegetable and an ethnomedicinal plant, Momordica cymbalaria Fenzl., has been developed. The influences of 0.0-5.0 μM 6-BA, 0.0-20.0 μM Kn alone and in combination with 2.5- 5.0 μM IAA, 2.5-5.0 μM NAA and 2.5-5.0 μM 2,4-D on in vitro multiple shoot production from node, internode and leaf explants was studied. The maximum number of indirect (callus interspersed) regeneration of multiple shoots (9.0±0.5 shoots per explant) was achieved from leaf explants on MS medium enriched with 2.5 mM BA alone. Further, large-scale shoot formation (35±3.4 shoots per culture) was achieved by repeated subculturing of leaf-callus on shoot regeneration medium (MS+2.5 mM BA). The capacity of large-scale shoot regeneration remained constant in the callus over a period of 2 years. The best root induction (100%) and survival (88%) was achieved on hormone free half strength MS medium. Addition of IAA or NAA in rooting medium induced callus formation in the shoots. Field established plants showed uniform growth and were morphologically identical to the parental stock.
Ni X;Yue L;Li J;Chi Z;Liu Z;Madzak C
004428 Ni X;Yue L;Li J;Chi Z;Liu Z;Madzak C (Unesco Chinese Center of Marine Biotechnology, Ocean University of China, Yushan Road, No. 5, Qingdao, China, Email: zhenming@sdu.edu.cn) : Properties of alkaline protease genetically engineered on cell surface of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(4), 294-8.
ALP2 gene encoding alkaline protease cloned from Aureobasidium pullulans HN2-3 was ligated into the surface display plasmid and expressed in the cells of the yeast Yarrowia lipolytica. The expressed alkaline protease was immobilized on the yeast cells. The activity of the immobilized enzyme with 6' His tag was found to be significantly higher than that of without 6x His tag. The immobilized enzyme showed lower optimal temperature and a lower affinity for azocasein than the free enzyme purified from A. pullulans HN2-3. The thermal stability of the immobilized enzyme enhanced and the pH stability decreased, compared to that of the free enzyme.
Narvekar S;Vaidya V K
004427 Narvekar S;Vaidya V K (NO, , 2, Dnyanadevi, Sahitya Sahawas, Bandra (East), Mumbai-400 051, Email: varshavaidya@gmail.com) : Removal of chromium (VI) from aqueous solution by chemically modified biomas of Aspergillus niger. J Ind Pollut Control 2008, 24(2), 153-9.
Sporulated biomass of Aspergillus niger was evaluated for its ability to remove Chromium (VI) by biosorption both prior to and after subjecting it to various physical treatments such as autodaving and chemical treatments with acids, alkali, chelating agent and cross-linker. Pretreatments with acetic acid (5%), phosphoric acid (10%), gluteraldehyde (2%), oxalic acid (0.00lM and 0.01M) and hydrochloric acid (1M, 5M) after autoclaving enhanced the adsorption capacity of Aspergillus niger biomass, which ranged from 2.16% to 86.88% in comparison with the untreated biomass. Comparison between the sporulated and mycelial biomass indicated effectiveness of the mycelial biomass in sorption of Chromium (VI). The mycelial biomass treated with 5M HCI combined with autoclaving proved to be the most successful in the removal of Chromium (VI).
2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref
Maurya S K;Srivastava S;Joshi R K
004426 Maurya S K;Srivastava S;Joshi R K (Veterinary Biochemistry Dep, College of Veterinary Science and Animal, Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad-224 229) : Retroviral vectors and gene therapy: an update. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 349-57.
Gene therapy aims at treatment of diseases by transfer of genetic material into specific cells of a patient. So the transduction of appropriate target cell is critical. Retroviruses infect nearly every cell in the target population and become integrated in host cell genome for a stable expression. All retroviruses have only three structural genes gag, pol and env, except for lentiviruses where two other genes tat, rev and four accessory genes are required (vif, vpu, nif, vpr). There are two components of retroviral vector system-i) Packaging cell lines, which provide the products of gag, pol & env genes but are unable to package itself as they lack the Ψ sequence, and ii) retroviral vectors where gag, pol and env are deleted but y sequence along with LTR is present. Several other types of vectors are also described.
Mathavan V M K;Boh B K;Tayyab S
004425 Mathavan V M K;Boh B K;Tayyab S (Biomolecular Research Group, Biochemistry Programme, Institute of Bio, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Email: saadtayyab2004@yahoo.com) : Characterization of erythrosine B binding to bovine serum albumin and bilirubin displacement. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(4), 325-31.
The interaction of erythrosine B (ErB), a commonly used dye for coloring foods and drinks, with bovine serum albumin (BSA) was investigated both in the absence and presence of bilirubin (BR) using absorption and absorption difference spectroscopy. ErB binding to BSA was reflected from a significant red shift of 11 nm in the absorption maximum of ErB (527 nm) with the change in absorbance at λmax. Analysis of absorption difference spectroscopic titration results of BSA with increasing concentrations of ErB using Benesi-Hildebrand equation gave the association constant, K as 6.9 x 104 M-1. BR displacing action of ErB was revealed by a significant blue shift in the absorption maximum, accompanied by a decrease in absorbance difference at λmax in the difference spectrum of BR-BSA complex upon addition of increasing concentrations of ErB. This was further substantiated by fluorescence spectroscopy, as addition of increasing concentrations of ErB to BR-BSA complex caused a significant decrease in fluorescence at 510 nm. The results suggest that ErB binds to a site in the vicinity of BR binding site on BSA. Therefore, intake of ErB may increase the risk of hyperbilirubinemia in the healthy subjects.
Mariya John K M;Joshi S D;Mandal A K A;Ram Kumar S;Raj Kumar R
004424 Mariya John K M;Joshi S D;Mandal A K A;Ram Kumar S;Raj Kumar R (Plant Physiology Div, UPASI Tea Research Foundation, UPASI Tea Research Institute, Nirar Dam BPO, Valparai-642 127) : Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root production in tea leaves [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze]. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 430-4.
Leaves of tea [Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze] plants were transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain (MTCC 532) and hairy roots were induced. Among the different concentrations of acetosyringeone tested, 300 μM/L was found to enhance the transformation frequency upto 70%. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 30 g/L maltose and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) at 5 mg/L was found suitable for hairy-root culture and accumulation of phenolic compounds. Confirmatory studies were carried out by PCR analysis using rol C gene primer for transformation. Amplification of the specific gene was noted in the transformant at 540 bp. High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis confirmed the higher levels of catechins and their fractions in roots arising from the transformed tissues. Catechin fractions, viz., EC, ECG, EGC and EGCG were detected both in untransformed leaves and hairy roots produced by Agrobacterium infected cells.
Malabadi R B;Vijay Kumar S
004423 Malabadi R B;Vijay Kumar S (Forest Biotechnology Laboratory (6.06), Instituto de Technologia Quimica e Biologica (ITQB), Universidade Nova, Av Da Republica, Apartado-127, 2781-901, Oeiras, Portungal, Email: malabadi@itqb.unl.pt) : Effect of smoke on seed vigour response of selected medicinal plants. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 71-5.
Highlights the influence of aerosol smoke and smoke solution on the germination and. seed vigour response of few selected medicinal plants of Belgaum district of Karnataka. All the four medicinal plants selected for this study have been intensively used by the local traditional healers for the management of various diseases. The overall germination percentage is very high when seeds were treated with different concentrations of smoke saturated water solutions including aerosol smoke against control. The vigour index of all the medicinal plants under study increased with the applicability of dry smoke and smoke solutions. Hence, priming seeds with smoke or smoke solutions will certainly improve the seedling vigour response and plays an important role in the preservation of medicinal plants at a very low cost. This procedure is less expensive and applicable to most of the plant species.
2 tables, 22 ref
Malabadi R B
004422 Malabadi R B (Forest Biotechnology Lab (6.06), Instituto de Technologia Quimica e Biologica (ITQB), Universidade Nova, Av, Da Republica, Apartado 127, 2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal) : Production of edible vaccines for oral immunization in transgenic plants, current and future prospectives. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 1-10.
Highlights the recent advances made in the use of transgenic plants as biofactories for the production of edible vaccines and its long-term potential with demonstrated utility to the medical community. The use of transgenic plants to express orally immunogenic protein antigen is an emerging strategy for vaccine production. Foods under study include legumes, potatoes, banana, tobacco, rice, wheat, soybean and com. This concept has particular suitability for developing countries. Although, the first human clinical trials for edible vaccine have been performed recently, many challenges including maximization of expression levels, stabilization during post-harvest storage, remain to be met. Public acceptance of edible vaccines is highly variable on the global scale, and similar issues of social acceptance will influence the commercial feasibility of a plant-made vaccine. Edible vaccines can be improved for their oral immunogenecity by the use of appropriate adjuvant which could be used either as a fusion to the candidate gene or as an independent gene. Concern about immune tolerance and allergy to edible vaccines has been expressed and needs to be addressed suitably. The production of antigenic proteins in genetically engineered plants provide an inexpensive source of edible vaccines, in turn, increases the value of plants as novel sources of medicinal drugs. Therefore, one would perhaps expect edible vaccines from transgenic plants to be safer than their counterparts derived from animal-based sources, which have the potential for contamination with human pathogens.
^iia76 ref
Kizhakkayil J;Sasikumar B
004421 Kizhakkayil J;Sasikumar B (NO, National Agricultural Research Institute, Mon Repos, ECD, Guyana, Email: bhaskaransasikumar@yahoo.com) : Variability for quality traits in a global germplasm collection of ginger (Zingiber officinale R.). Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2009, 3(3), 254-9.
Fourty six ginger accessions originating from India, China, Pakistan, Brazil, Jamaica, Oman, Nepal, Nigeria and Queensland analysed for the quality attributes revealed that the primitive types/land races are rich in oleoresin and essential oil and low in crude fiber content as compared to the improved varieties.
2 tables, 13 ref
Karasu Yalcin S;Bozdemir M T;Ozbas Z Y
004420 Karasu Yalcin S;Bozdemir M T;Ozbas Z Y (Food Engineering Dep, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Abant Izzet Baysal University, Golkoy 14280, Bolu, Turkey) : Comparative study on citric acid production kinetics of two Yarrowia lipolytica strains in two different media. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 408-17.
Microbial production of citric acid was performed by Yarrowia lipolytica NBRC 1658 and a domestic strain in the media containing glucose or fructose as substrates. The study was carried out in a batch system. The non-competitive substrate inhibition model was proposed for growth of the yeasts in both substrate media. Higher dry mass and lower Ks values were obtained in glucose media when compared to fructose media. The highest citric acid concentration (65.1 g/L) was obtained with the domestic strain in the medium containing 200 g/L fructose. In the media containing fructose, maximum citric acid concentration and productivity values determined with the domestic strain were aproximately two-fold greater than those obtained with NBRC 1658 strain. The required initial concentration of glucose or fructose at which best citric acid production properties were observed changed between 100-200 g/L for both of the strains. The ratio of citric acid to isocitric acid was found to change between 11.70-16.62.
Jothi Basu M;Ramanathan R;Yogananth N;Baburaj S
004419 Jothi Basu M;Ramanathan R;Yogananth N;Baburaj S (NO, Alagappa University, Karaikudi-630 003, Email: jothibasu77@gmail.com) : Micropropagation of Crataeva religiosa Hook. f. & Thomas. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2009, 3(3), 287-90.
Protocol was developed for in vitro propagation by multiple shoot induction of Crataeva religiosa Hook. f. & Thoms, a medicinal tree having high medicinal values belonging to the family Capparidaceae. High frequencies of multiple shoot regeneration were achieved from apical bud on MS medium fortified with 8 mg/L BAP alone. Five to seven shoots per explant were obtained. The elongated shoots were subcultured for rooting on half strength MS supplemented with various concentrations of IBA and IAA. The in vitro raised plantlets were acclimatized in green house and successfully transplanted to natural condition with 72% survival.
2 illus, 1 table, 15 ref
Joshi S D;Sanjay R;Baby U I;Mandal A K A
004418 Joshi S D;Sanjay R;Baby U I;Mandal A K A (NO, UPASI-TRF, Tea Research Institute, Nirar Dam BPO, Valparai-642 127) : Molecular characterization of Pestalotiopsis spp. associated with tea (Camellia sinensis) in southern India using RAPD and ISSR markers. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 377-83.
The genus Pestalotiopsis is second most important fungal pathogen causing grey blight disease in tea plant (Camellia sinensis). Due to grey blight disease, total tea crop loss is estimated to be 17% in southern India. In the present study, 42 Pestalotiopsis isolates were collected from five different regions in southern India. Among them, 22 isolates showed diverse morphological characters like colour, size and length of conidia and virulence. Genetic diversity was studied for these 22 isolates using two molecular marker systems (RAPD and ISSR). In RAPD, a total of 255 loci were generated and all were polymorphic in nature and the band size ranged from 0.2 to 3.0 kb. In ISSR, 194 amplified loci were observed and all were polymorphic as like RAPD and the band size ranged from 0.25 to 3.2 kb. Using Jaccard's similarity coefficient matrix, highest similarity of 95.9% and 92.6% was observed between AP-8 and AP-9 isolates in both RAPD and ISSR markers, respectively. Lowest similarity was observed between AP-14 and NP-5 (8.8%) in RAPD matrix but in ISSR matrix lowest similarity (18.5%) was between AP-14 and EN-5. The UPGMA clustering of both methods was comparable. The results indicate that, within southern India, the diversity of Pestalotiopsis was high both morphologically and genetically.
Jiang X;Gu X;Liu Y;Ding F;Gu X X;Huan Y;Ren L;Wang Y
004417 Jiang X;Gu X;Liu Y;Ding F;Gu X X;Huan Y;Ren L;Wang Y (Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, 19 Qixiu Road, Nantong 226007, P.R. China, Email: wyjbs@yahoo.com.cn) : Molecular cloning and expression analysis of evolutionarily conserved stathmin from Gekko japonicus spinal cord. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(4), 289-93.
The cDNA encoding stathmin is identified from the brain and spinal cord cDNA library of Gekko japonicus. It contains a 450 bp open-reading-frame, corresponding to a deduced protein of 149 amino acids. At amino acid level, gecko stathmin shares more than 76.4% identities with vertebrate stathmins, and especially, it shares 100% identity with human stathmin, suggesting that the selective pressure must have been extremely high for the conservation of stathmin during the vertebrates including reptile evolution. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) shows that gecko stathmin is ubiquitously expressed in all tissues examined. In situ hybridization reveals that stathmin transcript mainly appear in the gray matter of spinal cord. The change of stathmin expression in spinal cord after tail amputation is examined by semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Stathmin expression increases at 1 day and 3 day after amputation and decreases to the control level at 1 week. However, the expression level increases again at 2 weeks. These suggest that stathmin may be associated with the immune protection of the injury, as well as in the regeneration of spinal cord.
Iyengar V;Pullakhandam R;Madhavan Nair K
004416 Iyengar V;Pullakhandam R;Madhavan Nair K (Micronutrient Research Group, Biophysics Div, National Institute of N, Jamai Osmania, Hyderabad-500 604, Email: nairthayil@hotmail.com) : Iron-zinc interaction during uptake in human intestinal Caco-2 cell line: kinetic analyses and possible mechanism. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(4), 299-306.
Iron and zinc interact at the enterocyte during absorption, but the mechanism(s) remain elusive. The aim was, therefore, to understand the mechanism of interaction using kinetic analyses of iron and zinc uptake, individually and in combination under normal and altered cellular mineral concentrations in human intestinal Caco-2 cell line. Striking differences in kinetic parameters were observed between iron and zinc uptake. Iron uptake followed a two-component model, while zinc uptake followed a three-component model. Iron uptake had a Km of 3.6 μM and Vmax of 452 pmol/mg protein/min, while zinc uptake had a Km of 42 μM and Vmax of 3.09 pmol/mg protein/min. Zinc dose-dependently inhibited iron uptake through mixed-inhibition but iron marginally increased zinc uptake. Cellular zinc repletion doubled iron uptake and eliminated inhibition, but zinc depletion decreased iron uptake. Iron pre-treatment had no effect on zinc uptake. Based on these results, a two-transporter model of iron uptake, comprising the apical iron uptake transporter divalent metal ion transporter-1 (DMT-1) and an unknown putative transporter was derived. This model for DMT-1 was verified by immunoblotting. These results implied that cellular zinc status profoundly influenced iron uptake and its interactions with zinc during uptake. DMT-1 might not simultaneously transport iron and zinc, providing a mechanistic basis for observed interactions.
Husnawan M;Masjuki H H;Mahlia T M I;Mekhilef S;Saifullah M G
004415 Husnawan M;Masjuki H H;Mahlia T M I;Mekhilef S;Saifullah M G (Energy Research Centre, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) : Use of post flame metal-based and oxygenated additive combination for biodiesel-diesel blends. J scient ind Res 2009, 68(12), 1049-52.
Effects of using vegetable oil-based additive combined with metal-based additive on exhaust emissions of 4-stroke diesel engine fueled with biodiesel. Tests were conducted using biodiesel from palm blended with diesel, palm polyol and MgO as a post-flame additive. Palm-biodiesel blended fuel with and without additive generally produced less emission compared to ordinary diesel. Moreover, post flame additives was found successfully diminishing poisonous exhaust gases from diesel engine combustion, eliminating stringent environmental issues on atmospheric pollution.
Dhillon R S;Hooda M S;Jattan M;Chawla V; Bhardwaj M;Goyal S C
004414 Dhillon R S;Hooda M S;Jattan M;Chawla V; Bhardwaj M;Goyal S C (Forestry Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004) : Development and molecular characterization of interspecific hybrids of Jatropha curcas x J. integerrima. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 384-90.
Reciprocal crosses between J. curcas and J. integerrima were attempted. The interspecific hybrids were successful only when the former was used as seed parent. The F1 hybrids exhibited a wide range of variation for vegetative and reproductive traits suggesting considerable heterogeneity between the parental plants. Some of the characters such as stem type, branching habit, leaf size and shape of the hybrids resembled the female parent while others like leaf pigmentation, fruit and seed size, flower colour, resembled the male parent. The parents and their 23 hybrid plants were subjected to random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis using 61 random decamer primers. Out of 61 primers, the amplification was obtained in 51 primers producing 384 bands. The similarity value between the parents (41.4%) was less than those between parents and hybrids. Cluster analysis based on Jaccard's similarity coefficient outgrouped the female parent from rest of the genotypes at a similarity coefficient of 0.55. The 2-Dimensional and 3-Dimensional scaling by principal component analysis (PCA) grouped some hybrids with male parent, some with female parent while others in between both the parents.
Chiu H H;Tseng Y T;Hsiao H P;Hsiao H H
004413 Chiu H H;Tseng Y T;Hsiao H P;Hsiao H H (Biotechnology Dep, Fooyin University, Kaohsiung 831, Taiwan, Email: huhuhs@cc.kmu.edu.tw) : AGG intrruption pattern with the CGG repeat of the FMR1 gene among Taiwanese population. J Genet 2008, 87(3), 275-7.
1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref
Chandrika M;Ravishankar Rai V
004412 Chandrika M;Ravishankar Rai V (Studies in Biotechnology Dep, University of Mysore, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: rrai33@hotmail.com) : Assessment of genetic stability in micropropagated plants of Ochreinauclea missionis by RAPD markers. Curr Trends Biotechnol Pharm 2009, 3(3), 320-8.
Reports the use of randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers, to verify the clonal fidelity between the micropropagated plants and the mother plant of Ochreinauc/ea missionis, an ethnomedicinal and endemic tree in Western Ghats of India. Thirty eight RAPD primers were screened, out of which thirty two primers generated a total of 245 clear, distinct and reproducible bands. Out of 245 total bands, 227 bands were monomorphic with 92.67% and 18 bands showed polymorphic banding pattern with 7.34 %. Thus, a total of 5390 bands were generated showing uniform banding patterns for each primer that are comparable to the mother plant from which the cultures were established. Cluster analysis based on unweighted pair group method with arithmetic averaging (UPGMA) showed 97% similarity between the mother plant and micropropagated plants. The developed RAPD profiles confirmed the clonal fidelity of tissue culture raised plantlets which were reintroduced to its original habitat for conservation.
2 illus, 35 ref
Celem E B;Bolle S S;Onal S
004411 Celem E B;Bolle S S;Onal S (Biochemistry Dep, Faculty of Science, Ege University, Bornova-Izmir, Turkey, Email: secil.onal@ege.edu.tr) : Efficient and rapid purification of lentil α-galactosidase by affinity precipitation with alginate. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(5), 366-70.
α-Galactosidase (α-D-galactoside galactohydrolase, EC 3.2.1.22) was purified (26-fold) from the germinating seeds of lentil (Lens culinaris) by affinity precipitation with alginate. The purified enzyme gave a single band corresponding to molecular mass of 40 kDa on SDS-PAGE. The optimum temperature and pH of the enzyme were determined as 40°C and 5.5, respectively. The enzyme was very stable at a temperature range of 4-65°C and at a pH range of 4-7. The values of kinetic constants Km and Vmax using p-nitrophenyl-α-D-galactopyranoside (PNPG) as substrate were 0.191 mM and 0.73 U, respectively. Results suggest that affinity precipitation is an attractive process for the purification of α-galactosidase.
Bouilly K;Chaves R;Leitao A;Benabdelmouna A; Guedes Pinto H
004410 Bouilly K;Chaves R;Leitao A;Benabdelmouna A; Guedes Pinto H (Centre for Genetics and Biotechnology, Institute for Biotechnology and Bioengineering, University of Tras-os-, IBB/CGB-UTAD, 5001-801 Vila Real, Portugal, Email: kbouilly@yahoo.fr) : Chromosomal organization of simple sequence repeats in the Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas): (GGAT)4, (GT)7 and (TA)10 chromosome patterns. J Genet 2008, 87(2), 119-25.
Chromosome identification is essential in oyster genomic research. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) offers new opportunities for the identification of oyster chromosomes. It has been used to locate satellite DNAs, telomeres or ribosomal DNA sequences. However, regarding chromosome identification, no study has been conducted with simple sequence repeats (SSRs). FISH was used to probe the physical organization of three particular SSRs, (GGAT)4, (GT)7 and (TA)10 onto metaphase chromosomes of the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas. Hybridization signals were observed in all the SSR probes, but the distribution and intensity of signals varied according to the oligonucleotide repeat. The intercalary, centromeric and telomeric bands were observed along the chromosomes, and for each particular repeat every chromosome pair presented a similar pattern, allowing karyotypic analysis with all the SSRs tested. The study is the first in mollusks to show the application of SSR in situ hybridization for chromosome identification and karyotyping. This technique can be a useful tool for oyster comparative studies and to understand genome organization in different oyster taxa.
3 illus, 43 ref
Bano S;Ul Qader S A;Aman A;Azhar A
004409 Bano S;Ul Qader S A;Aman A;Azhar A (NO, Pharmaceutical Research Centre, PCSIR Laboratories Complex, Karachi, Pakistan, Email: madar_chem@yahoo.com) : Partial purification and some properties of α-amylase from Bacillus subtilis KIBGE-HAS. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(5), 401-4.
An extracellular α-amylase from Bacillus subtilis KIBGE-HAS was partially purified by ultrafiltration and ammonium sulphate precipitation with 19.2-fold purification and specific activity of 4195 U/mg. The enzyme showed relatively high thermostability and retained 62% of its activity when kept at 70°C for 15 min. α-Amylase was highly stable at -18°C and loss of activity was very low during stability study. Metal ions like Mn2+, Ca2+, Co2+, K+, Mg2+, and Fe3+ activated the enzyme, while Hg2+ Ba2+, Cu2+, Na+ and Al3+ strongly inhibited the activity. The α-amylase was highly stable in various surfactants and detergents. In the presence of surfactants such as SDS and Triton X-100 the enzyme activity was found 2.9 and 1.8-fold higher respectively than control. The non-ionic detergents (Tween 20 and Tween 80) exhibited slightly inhibitory effect on the enzyme activity.
Alam M A;Gulati P;Gulati A K;Mishra G P;Naik P K
004408 Alam M A;Gulati P;Gulati A K;Mishra G P;Naik P K (Bioinformatics and Biotechnology Dep, Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat, Solan-173 215) : Assessment of genetic diversity among Podophyllum hexandrum genotypes of the North-western Himalayan region for podophyllotoxin production. Indian J Biotechnol 2009, 8(4), 391-9.
Podophyllum hexandrum (Indian Mayapple) is an important medicinal plant valued all over the world. Genetic diversity among the 28 genotypes of P. hexandrum distributed in 11 geographical regions from Himachal Pradesh (a part of the North-western Himalaya) was analyzed using RAPD markers. The genetic diversity was high among the genotypes as measured by percentage of polymorphic bands (PPB = 92.37%) and Shanon information index (I = 0.50). The mean coefficient of gene differentiation (Gst) was 0.69, indicating that 33.77% of the genetic diversity resided within the genotypes. Analysis of molecular variance indicated that the source of variation among the groups was 53% and among the genotypes of groups was 47%. An overall value of mean estimated number of gene flow (Nm = 0.22) indicated that there was limited gene flow among the genotypes. The existence of variation among the 28 genotypes as observed through podophyllotoxin content proved to be coupled with geographical altitude (r = 0.92) and local ecological conditions (temperature, rainfall, humidity, soil pH, etc.) but not on genetic basis (r = -0.55). Based on the observed genetic variations among the genotypes of Podophyllum, we recommend for their in situ conservation and germplasm collection expeditions in future conservation plans.
Swamy P M;Syamala Devi N
003314 Swamy P M;Syamala Devi N (Biotechnology Dep, Sree Vidyanikethan Engineering College, Sree Sainath Nagar, A. Rangampet-517 102) : Metabolic engineering : production of antibiotics, dyes and secondary metabolites. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 211-18.
Metabolic pathway regulation (allosteric control) has been elucidated in wide variety of living organisms like higher plants, fungi and bacterial systems. These pathways provide an understanding of how secondary metabolites, like life saving alkaloids, drugs, antibiotics, and dyes may show enhanced production. Based on the current knowledge of metabolic regulation one can always manipulate the improved production from the broad spectrum of organisms. The DMA recombinant technology can be used to develop novel routes to produce small molecules like indigo type of dyes. A number of widely used antibiotics and immunosuppressants belong to a class of molecules known as polyketides. The polyketides have a fairly complex structure. When a recombinant cell overproduces a protein or the components of a biosynthetic pathway there is a marked reduction in the metabolic activity coupled with retardation of growth. To accurate this problem, a dynamic control circuit has been designed, which is able to sense the metabolic state of the cell and thereby regulate the expression of a recombinant pathway. This approach is termed "Metabolic Control Engineering". Although metabolic control engineering is at an early state, it represents the significant degree of sophistication compared with the use of simple controllable promoters.
7 illus, 20 ref
Srinivasa Rao R;Uma Karthika R;Singh S P; Shashikala P;Kanungo R;Jayachandran S;Prashanth K
003313 Srinivasa Rao R;Uma Karthika R;Singh S P; Shashikala P;Kanungo R;Jayachandran S;Prashanth K (Biotechnology Dep, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry Univ, R. Venkataraman Nagar, Kalapet, Puducherry-605 014, Email: prashi2k@gmail.com) : Correlation between biofilm production and multiple drug resistance in imipenem resistant clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii. Indian J med Microbiol 2008, 26(4), 333-7.
Purpose is to study the qualitative and quantitative methods for the investigation of biofilm formation and to examine the correlation between biofilm and antibiotic resistance among the clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii. Also verified the association between biofilm and presence of extended spectrum β-lactamases, particularly, blaPER-1 A total of 55 isolates were subjected to susceptibility testing by disc diffusion method for 13 clinically relevant antibiotics. Screening for biofilm production was done by both qualitative and quantitative methods through tube and microtitre plate assay respectively. The presence of blaPER-1, was checked by PCR. A. baumannii isolates showed very high resistance (>75%) to imipenem, cephotaxime, amikacin and ciprofloxacin. Only cefoperazone, netillin and norfloxacin were found to be effective agents. Results of microtitre and tube methods were concordant with 34 isolates (62%) showing biofilm formation. Resistance to four antibiotics such as amikacin (82% vs. 17.6%, P<0.001), cephotaxime (88% vs. 11%, P P<.001), ciprofloxacin (70% vs. 29%, P=0.005) and aztreonam (38% vs. 11%, P=0.039) was comparatively higher among biofilm producers than non-biofilm producers. Microtitre assay additionally detected 14 weakly adherent isolates. Only 11 isolates had blaPER-1 gene and among these two were strong biofilm producers, while remaining were weakly adherent isolates. Microtitre plate method was found to be a more sensitive method for biofilm detection. This study demonstrates a high propensity among the clinical isolates of A. baumannii to form biofilm and a significant association of biofilms with multiple drug resistance. Presence of blaPER-1, appears to be more critical for cell adherence than for biofilm formation.
3 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref
Sreenivasulu Y;Chanda S K;Ahuja P S
003312 Sreenivasulu Y;Chanda S K;Ahuja P S (Biotechnology Div, Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR), P.O. Box No. 6, alampur-176 061, Email: sreenivasulu@ihbt.res.in) : Ethanol induced seed germination in Aconitum heterophyllum Wall.: an endangered medicinal herb of the north-west Himalayas. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 159-65.
Aconitum heterophyllum is an important medicinal herb of high altitudes of western Himalayas (India). Over exploitation from the natural habitats by the drug industries and prolonged seed dormancy made this species endangered. Attempts were made for domestication of this plant species through seeds at comparatively lower altitudes by removing seed dormancy. The seeds of Aconitum heterophyllum were germinated by overcoming dormancy with ethanol. This low cost organic solvent improved the per cent germination by enhancing the growth potential of the embryonic axis. In the seed protein profiles a disappearance was observed in the content of 28 and 21 kd proteins in second phase of ethanol induced seed germination. These proteins might have a significant role in enhancing the germination percentage as well as increase in growth potential of the embryonic axis. This study suggests that seed germination and potential for establishment of nurseries of A. heterophyllum can be improved with ethanol.
4 illus, 1 table, 36 ref
Spirama R;Ramesha B T;Ravikanth G;Uma Shaanker R;Ganeshaiah K N
003311 Spirama R;Ramesha B T;Ravikanth G;Uma Shaanker R;Ganeshaiah K N (School of Ecology and Conservation, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK, Bangalore-560 065, Email: umashaanker@gmail.com) : Are plants with anti-cancer activiy resistant to crown gall? : a test of hypothesis. Curr Sci 2008, 95(10), 1407-8.
^ssc1 table, 23 ref
Singh L;Verma K K
003310 Singh L;Verma K K (Agricultural Biotechnology Dep, C.S. Azad Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur-2) : Influence of applied fruit wastes on metal ion adsorption and release by humic acid. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 277-80.
Adsorption and release of metal ions in humic acid was affected oy fruit wastes viz. peels of mangoes, apples and bananas. The adsorption of Zn++ was greater while the adsorption of Fe++ and Cu++ were almost at par to control in both alpha and beta humic acids. Except Cu++, the greater releasing capacity was observed by adsorbed cations Zn++ and Fe++ as compared to control in both humic acids extracted from peel of fruits. In comparison amongst the various fruit wastes, the highest adsorption capacity of metal ions viz. Fe++ and Cu++ was recorded by beta humic acid as compared to alpha humic acid extracted from peels of banana and apple while adsorption of Zn++ was reversed in both wastes.
5 tables, 13 ref
Rawat P;Ray K;Pental D;Burma P K
003309 Rawat P;Ray K;Pental D;Burma P K (Genetics Dep, Delhi South Campus Univ, Benito Juarez Road, New Delhi-110 021, Email: pburma@hotmail.com) : Mutant acetolactate synthase gene conferring resistance to the herbicide 'imazethapyr' is an efficient in vitro selection marker for genetic transformation of cotton. Curr Sci 2008, 95(10), 1454-8.
Reports a transformation protocol for cotton using the herbicide molecule imaze-thapyr as a selection agent. This protocol using a double-mutant acetolactate synthase gene is based on Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of cotyledon-ary leaf explants, followed by regeneration via somatic embryogenesis. The protocol simplifies and shortens the time taken to recover transgenic lines compared to our earlier protocol that uses kanamycin as a selection agent. Transformation efficiency based on percentage of explants giving rise to transgenic lines, confirmed by Southern hybridization, ranged from approximately 3 to 14% in different experiments. We also report a method for successful maintenance and propagation of cotton shoot cultures in vitro.
3 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref
Pal S;Vimala Devi S;Choudhary U N
003308 Pal S;Vimala Devi S;Choudhary U N (NO, National Centre for Agricultural Economics and Policty Research, DPS Marg, Musa, New Delhi-110 012, Email: spl@ncap.res.in) : Resources and priorities for plant biotechnology research in India. Curr Sci 2008, 95(10), 1400-2.
^iia3 tables, 5 ref
Narasimha Rao K;Vijayapal Reddy B;Girisham S; Reddy S M
003307 Narasimha Rao K;Vijayapal Reddy B;Girisham S; Reddy S M (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Natural incidence of fusarial mycotoxins. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt II), 164-8.
Extensive and intensive survey of foods (maize and sorghum) of different regions of AP was carried out for the presence of different fusarial species and their toxins. In general all the foods analysed contained one or other species of Fusarium. The degree of mycotoxin contamination varied with the commodity and place of collection. Fumonisins, zearalenone, T2 toxin, DON and DAS were some of the toxins detected.
2 tables, 16 ref
Musa H H;He S F;Wu S L;Zhu C H;Liu Z H;Zhang Z N;Raj V S;Gu R X;Zhu G Q
003306 Musa H H;He S F;Wu S L;Zhu C H;Liu Z H;Zhang Z N;Raj V S;Gu R X;Zhu G Q (College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou-225009, China) : Genetic engineering of avian pathogenic E. coli to study the functions of FimH adhesin. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(11), 916-20.
Adhesion of pathogen to host cells is an important prerequisite for successful colonization and establishment of the pathogenesis. The aim of this study is to examine the function of FimH adhesin in the adherence of avian pathogenic E. coli to porcine intestinal epithelial cell lines (IPEC-J2) and human lung epithelial cell line (A549) in an in vitro infection model. Three strains of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) and one strain of non-pathogenic E coli were used. The isogenic FimH mutants were constructed by λ Red-mediated recombination system. The wild types and mutants strains were adhered to the host cells with different adherence patterns in certain incubation time. The results demonstrated that the adherence of the isogenic FimH mutants to the porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC-J2) were similar to those of wild types. However, the adherences of isogenic FimH mutants to human lung epithelial cells (A549) were significantly different from the wild types. A549 cell can be used as a type of cell model for colonization of the chicken extraintestinal. FimH offers a unique opportunity to investigate the role of the strength of adhesion independently from the many other factors that may affect surface colonization.
Mallaiah B;Mustafa M;Caroline V J E
003305 Mallaiah B;Mustafa M;Caroline V J E (Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Arts and Science College Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 001) : Micropropagation of an endangered medicinally important cucurbit, Colosynthes vulgaris L. through multiple shoot production. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt III), 265-7.
Colosynthes vulgaris L, commonly known as bitter apple, which yields the drug colosynth, believed to be a glycoside, is now known to be a mixture of alkaloid and crystalline alcohol. Explants like shoot tips, axillary buds, leaves and stem segments were inoculated on MS medium supplemented with coconut milk and TDZ, BAP and Kn. TDZ in lower concentrations with 15% coconut milk induced high percentage of multiple shoots in leaf cultures.
4 illus, 1 table, 9 ref
Gupta S;Manoj Prasad
003304 Gupta S;Manoj Prasad (NO, National Institute for Plant Genome Research (NIPGR), Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, Email: manoj_prasad@nipgr.res.in) : Transferability of EST-SSR markers of Medicago truncatula to three major leguminous species. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 33-6.
Expressed sequence tags (ESTs) derived microsatellite (SSR) markers are important resources for gene discovery and molecular marker development aiming for crop improvement. In this study, we report the development and characterization of eighteen useful tri-nucleotide EST-SSR markers from Medicago truncatula, using public EST database. These primers were utilized in assessing the transferability in three major leguminous species. Of the 18 microsatellites assayed, 42.1%, 31.6% and 26.3% gave consistent across-amplification in lentil, chickpea and pea respectively. The validation studies thus demonstrate the utility of the EST-SSRs in assessing genome relationship in leguminous species.
1 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref
Gupta R;Modgil M;Chakrabarti S K
003303 Gupta R;Modgil M;Chakrabarti S K (Biotechnology Dep, Dr Y S Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173230) : Assessment of genetic fidelity of micropropagated apple rootstock plants, EMLA 111, using RAPD markers. Indian J expl Biol 2009, 47(11), 925-8.
EMLA 111(East Malling Long Ashton), a clonal rootstock of apple (Malus pumila Mill.) was micropropagated using axillary bud and shoot apices. The present work was carried out to assess the genetic fidelity of micropropagated plants using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD). Ten arbitrary decamer primers have been used to amplify genomic DNA from in vitro raised field material and mother plant. A total of 57 amplified products were obtained, out of which 53 were monomorphic across the mother tree and its tissue culture raised progenies. Of the ten primers used, 8 showed RAPD profiles which were identical to the mother plant. Similarity matrix based on Jaccard's coefficient revealed that pairwise value between the mother plant and its tissue cultured plants ranged from 0.93 to 1.00 and among tissue cultured plants, it was 0.92 to 1.00, thus indicating a high degree of genetic fidelity.
Gupta D;Bleakley B;Gupta R K
003302 Gupta D;Bleakley B;Gupta R K (University School of Biotechnology, GGS Indraprastha University, Kashmiri Gate, Delhi-110 006, Email: rkg67ap@yahoo.com) : Bioassay guided isolation of antibacterial homoisoflavan from Dragon's blood resin (Dammul-akhwain). Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(5), 494-7.
There is a great need of a simple, cost effective bioassay guided method for screening the antibacterial and antifungal properties of plants as novel drugs continue to be developed through research from these plants. In this short report, an antibacterial homoisoflavan using a simple method based on thin layer chromatography (TLC) from Dracaena cinnabari Balf f. resin has been isolated.
Dass S;Ramawat K G
003301 Dass S;Ramawat K G (Miranda House, University of Delhi, Patel Chest Marg, Delhi-110 007, Email: kg_ramawat@yahoo.com) : Studies on somatic cell variability in Commiphora wightii (Arn.) Bhandari for guggulsterone production. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(5), 532-6.
More than 125 clones were established in Commiphora wightii (Arnott) Bhandari by aggregate cloning from stock cultures maintained on MS medium supplemented with 0.25 mg/l 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid and 0.1 mg/l kinetin. A few high productive clones were isolated while majority (>80%) were low productive. The somatic cell variability in callus cultures of C. wightii and their growth in shake flasks and bioreactor for high yield of guggulsterones has been reported. A high productive clone yielded 80 μg/l guggulsterones when grown in cell suspension culture in shake flasks and 2 litre stirred tank bioreactor. The colour variations of the cultures (due to anthocyanin accumulation) were also explored to isolate high guggulsterone producing lines; however, no correlationship could be established between anthocyanin accumulation and guggulsterone contents of the clones.
Choudhury S;Gupta K
003300 Choudhury S;Gupta K (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Lab, Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Golapbag, Burdwan-713 104) : Catharanthus alkaloid production under field condition and in callus culture. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 37-42.
Field grown plants are the main source of most valueable phytochemicals, e.g. alkaloids. But, they are subjected to seasonal and somatic variation. Alternative methods for the production of alkaloids, such as synthesis or semisynthesis, cell and tissue culture, hairy root culture are encouraging because of low yields of certain alkaloid in the plant combined with their high market price. In the present study, triazole type of growth retardants, namely BAS111.W was used in the field grown plants as well as in culture media to modify growh, metabolism and alkaloid of Catharanthus roseus. Using different concentrations of this chemical (10, 25 and 50 mg/ml in case of field grown plants and 1, 3 and 5 mg/ml in culture media), biomass production in terms of dry weight was estimated. At higher concentrations, in both cases it was inhibitory to growth. Both in vivo and in vitro study showed that 10 mg/ml and 1 mg/ml of BAS1 111. W was optimum for biomass production in C. roseus. Total alkaloid contents of leaf and root of callus tissue were also higher in these concentrations. Regarding specific alkaloid analyses by HPLC, callus culture showed much simpler pattern than that of field grown plants. But the dimeric alkaloid vincristine was, totally absent in callus tissue. From economic point of view, it should be mentioned that field grown plants are 40 times profitable than cultural ones, but the cultures had advantages over the plantation in stability of supply, freedom from plant disease and climatic risks.
4 tables, 30 ref
Choudhury H;Kumaria S;Tandon P
003299 Choudhury H;Kumaria S;Tandon P (Plant Biotechnology Div, Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022, Email: hiranjit_c@yahoo.com) : Induction and maturation of somatic embryos from intact megagametophyte explants in Khasi pine (Pinus kesiya Royle x. Gord.). Curr Sci 2008, 95(10), 1433-8.
Embryogenic cultures were initiated and established in Khasi pine from intact megagametophytes. Factors affecting initiation, including genotype and developmental stages of explants, basal medium and growth regulator concentrations were investigated. Megagametophytes collected at different developmental stages from open-pollinated tree genotypes, Pk-01, Pk-02, Pk-03, Pk-04 and Pk-05, were cultured on DCR medium supplemented with 2,4-D, NAA and BA. Megagametophytes containing zygotic embryos of 0.05-1.20 mm embryonal head size were suitable for somatic em-bryogenesis. Extrusion of embryogenic tissues from intact megagametophytes varied depending on the genotype, the developmental stage of the megagametophytes and media composition. Altogether 44 embryogenic lines were established with the genotype Pk-04. The embryogenic tissues exhibited luxuriant growth and cleavage polyembryony on maintenance medium. The proembryos failed to convert to advanced stage embryos on the maintenance medium. Maximum frequency (63.5%) of advanced cotyledonary somatic embryo (stage-Ill) was obtained on maturation medium with enhanced ABA (35 μM), gellan gum (5 g l-1) and maltose (60 g l-1) concentrations. The stage-III somatic embryos produced seedlings on germination medium.
2 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref
Chenung Z H;IP N Y
003298 Chenung Z H;IP N Y (Biochemistry Dep, Hong Kong Univ of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China, Email: BOIP@UST.HK) : Neurotrophins - players in the regulation of neuronal survival and apoptosis. Curr Sci 2008, 95(9), 1237-156.
Neurotrophins are a family of trophic factors that has been established as pivotal players in the regulation of neuronal survival and differentiation throughout development and adulthood. The prototypic neurotrophin, nerve-growth factor (NGF), was isolated and purified more than 50 years ago as a target-derived trophic factor for developing neurons. Since then, not only were more members added to the family, but as our understanding of the neurotrophins advances, it became clear that the neurotrophins are involved in almost all aspects of neuronal development. Here we will summarize the critical roles of neurotrophms in the regulation of neuronal survival and apoptosis.
6 illus, 156 ref
Chattopadhyay S K;Khan S;Ghosh P D
003297 Chattopadhyay S K;Khan S;Ghosh P D (Cytogenetics and Plant Biotechnology Research Unit, Botany Dep, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235, Email: pdgbot@yahoo.com) : Chromosomal behaviur during callus culture of Cicer arietinum L.. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 23-7.
Study on the variation in chromosome number of the cells from 30-90 days old cotyledonary node derived callus of Cicer arietinum L. was undertaken. The observation showed a wide range of variation; however, the majority of the cells studied were diploid (2n=14) in nature. Among the numerical abnormalities, induced tetrploid cells were most frequent as compared to aneuploid or/and polyploid cells The frequency of anaphase abnormalities was also recorded along with other structural changes. The composition and concentration of growth regulators along with duration of culture were found to affect chromosomal instabilities during culture regime.
2 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref
Chakrobarty A K;Basak S K
003296 Chakrobarty A K;Basak S K (NO, Divisional Forest Officer, Bankura (South)) : Rooting trials on Eucalyptus spp.. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(2), 59-62.
Eucalyptus is introduced in India from Australia. This plant is cultivated as major fast growing plant in Social/Firm Forestry Schemes and is a good source of timber, fuel and raw materials of wood based industries. Clonal technology of Eucalyptus spp has been introduced for immediate gains in productivity and quality. Standardization of root initiation in shoot cutting by different hormone combinations shows great advantages over the traditional IBA treatment and was tried in nursery at Simlapal Forest Range under Bankura (South) Division of West Bengal.
2 illus, 1 table, 9 ref
Bohidar S;Thirunavoukkarasu M;Rao T V
003295 Bohidar S;Thirunavoukkarasu M;Rao T V (Natural Products Dep, Institute of Minerals & Minerals Technology (C.S.I.R., Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: mtarasu@yahoo.com) : Propagation of Ruta graveolens L. by in vitro culture of nodal explants. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(2), 125-9.
A rapid and efficient in vitro propagation protocol for Ruta graveolens L. from nodal explants was developed. Multiple shoot formation was induced from nodal segments on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with 4.4-17.6 μM-1 6-benzyl adenine (BA), 1.13-9.06 μM1 thidiazuron (TDZ). Maximum number of shoots were induced (58.0±1.51) with 4.4 μM BA and 1.42 μM indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Shoot differentiation occurred directly from the cut ends without any callus formation. In vitro regenerated shoots rooted best on half-strength MS medium containing 1.22 μM indole-3-butyric acid (IBA). Plants with a well developed root system could be successfully established under in vivo condition, where the survival rate was 90 per cent.
1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref
Bantawa P;Rai R
003294 Bantawa P;Rai R (Biotechnology Lab, Faculty of Horticulture, Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, P.O. Pundibari, Cooch Behar-736 165, Email: bantawapranay@rediffmail.com ) : Studies on ethnomedicinal plants used by traditional practitioners, Jhankri, Bijuwa and Phedangma in Darjeeling Himalaya. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(5), 537-41.
Biodiversity of eastern Himalayas including Sikkim and Darjeeling is well known. Many ethnic groups reside in this beautiful Himalayan region. Although the modern medicinal facilities are available in the urban areas of Darjeeling yet local population of far flung places still prefers to use traditional plant resources. An ethnobotanical study was conducted among the traditional practitioners: Jhankri, Bijuwa and Phedangma. Mostly they rely on locally available plant materials to cure many diseases and disorders. A total of 41 species of plants as used by traditional practitioners of this area are listed alphabetically by botanical names, followed by family (in parenthesis) and medicinal uses.
Agrawal G;Lodhi R B;Amalakar U P;Khadse R K; Jalgaonkar S V
003293 Agrawal G;Lodhi R B;Amalakar U P;Khadse R K; Jalgaonkar S V (Microbiology Dep, Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Nagpur-444 018, Email: svjalgaonkar@yahoo.com) : Metallo-β-lactamase production in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Indian J med Microbiol 2008, 26(4), 349-51.
Study of metallo-β-lactamase (MBL) production was done in clinical isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Isolates resistant to ceftazidime and imipenem were screened for MBL production by double disc synergy test (DDST) and minimum inhibitory concentration reduction test. There was complete correlation between two methods for imipenem. For ceftazidime, there was correlation between the two methods in all except four strains. In the screening test for MBL, ceftazidime - EDTA combination was better than imipenem - EDTA combination. 8.05% strains were MBL producers. Presence of MBL producer P. aeruginosa is a cause of concern. Simple DDST can be helpful for monitoring of these emerging resistant determinants.
^ssc3 tables, 11 ref
Sundaram S;Singh S K
002360 Sundaram S;Singh S K (Centre for Biotechnology, Nehru Science Centre, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002) : Axillary shoot multiplication from nodal explants of the swet basil Ocimum basilicum L.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(PtI), 72-6.
Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicwn) is an important medicinal herb and is called 'Medicine Mughal' by many. It is used to prepare herbal formulations to cure different diseases. Its mosquito repellant property can also be exploited as an alternative to synthetic repellants used presently. An efficient protocol for in vitro shoot multiplication of Sweet Basil has been developed. Nodal segments, from young plants, were taken as explants; shoot multiplication was induced on slightly modified Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium supplemented with BAP (2.66 μM) and NAA (4.84 μM). Shoot proliferation could be induced using different combinations of BAP, IAA and Kinetin. Shoots were further multiplied through continued subculture of nodal segments with sprouted shoots. Micro-shoots were rooted in the basal medium supplemented with IAA (1.71 μM) and BAP (0.44 μM). Survival of in vitro grown plantlets 2 months after transplantation in the pots, containing equal parts of sand and top soil, was found to be 95 percent.
1 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref
Sowmia C;Kokilavani R;Gurusamy K
002359 Sowmia C;Kokilavani R;Gurusamy K (Biochemistry Dep, Kongundau Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Email: rajavelusowmia@rediffmail.com) : Modulation of glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes by treatment with Hemidesmus indicus R.Br. ethanolic root extract in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Res J Biotechnol 2009, 4(1), 15-19.
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Hemidesmus indicus R.Br (Asclepiadaceae) is a traditional plant that is used for the conventional therapy of several diseases such as diabetes mellitus and for blood purification. Our aim in the present study is to investigate the effect of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br. root extract on glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes to demonstrate their possible therapeutic effects. The root extract of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br. (400 mg/ kg) body weight was administered orally to control and alloxan induced diabetic rats for 30 days. Applied doses did not cause any acute toxicity or behavioral changes. The glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes were estimated after administration of the extracts. The glycolytic enzyme activities of hexokinase, aldolase, phospho-glucoisomerase and malate dehydrogenase in both liver and kidney showed minimum effect in toxic rats but toxic rats treated with the plant extract showed elevated effect and their values were near normal. The gluconeogenic enzyme activities of glucose - 6 -phosphatase and fructose 1,6 diphosphatase in both liver and kidney showed higher level in diabetic rats but diabetic treated rats with the plant extract showed lower level to the near normal values. Glibenclamide was used as a reference drug for the experiment.
5 tables, 20 ref
Sousa P J C;Araujo J S;Perira L L S;Modro M N R;Maia J G S;Araujo M T F;Carvalho J C T;Perazzo F F
002358 Sousa P J C;Araujo J S;Perira L L S;Modro M N R;Maia J G S;Araujo M T F;Carvalho J C T;Perazzo F F (Laboratorio de Farmacologia, Farmacia Dep, Universidade Federal do Para, Rod. Bernardo Soyao, S/N, Belm, Para, Brazil) : Phytochemical and toxicological evaluations of the essential oil from the bark of Aniba canellila (H.B.K.) Mez.. J essential Oil Res 2009, 21(4), 381-4.
Due to its therapeutic action, the phytochemical study of the essential oil of Aniba canelilla H. B. K M ez. (Lauraceae) and its toxicological preclinical trial were evaluated. The essential oil extracted from the bark (OEAC) yielded 1.0% and the major constituents were 1-nitro-2-phenylethane (52.9%) and methyl eugenol (38.7%), both identified by GC/ MS and GC-FID. The observed LD50 (oral) was 720 Z± 66.4 mg/kg. The doses used in the subacute toxicity study (1/10 and 1/20 of the LD50) were administered in rats for 30 days, and the biochemical (glucose, urea, creatinine, triglyc-erides, cholesterol, glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic-pyruvic transaminase and alkaline phosphatase) and hematological (erythrocytes, leukocytes and platelets counts, blood hemoglobin concentration, hematocrit and mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration) parameters were observed. The results suggested that the A. canellila oil presented low toxicity in rats, according to the used dosages.
2 tables, 26 ref