012260   Roopashree T S;Khanam S;Dang R (NO, Al-Ameen College of Pharmacy, Opp Lalbagh Main Gate, Hosur Road, Bangalore-560 027) : Production of volatile oil constituent linalool from the static cultures of Ocimum basilicum. Biomed 2007, 2(2), 218-22.

Static cultures of Ocimum basilicum were established on M.S medium supplemented with various growth regulators using different explants (cotyledon, shoot and root) of aseptkally germinated seedlings of Ocimun basilicum. Calli obtained from the cotyledon leaf exhibited higher growth rate compared to root. The cournestan linalool was present in cotyledon calli, leaf calli and natural leaf extract but was absent in shoot and root calli. The concentration of linalool was higher in catyledon calli than the leaf extract. The production of volatile oil constituent, linalool from the different explants and the natural herb was estimated by GC method.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

012259   Rashmi K R;Earanna N;Vasundhara M (Biotechnology Dep, University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore-560 065, Email: earanna7@yahoo.com) : Influence of biofertilizers on growth, biomass and biochemical constituents of Ocimum gratissimum. L. Biomed 2008, 3(2), 123-30.

Pot experiment was carried out to study the effects of inoculation of biofertilizers viz., Glomus fasciculatum, Azotobacter chroococcum and Aspergillus awamori singly or in combination on growth, biomass and biochemical constituents of Ocimum gratissimum. Inoculated plants showed increased plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, biomass, major and micro nutrients and essential oil content compared to un-inoculated plants. Dual inoculation further enhanced the growth, biomass and biochemical constituents. However, the triple inoculation with G. fasciculatum, A. chroococcum and A. awamori was found superior in enhancing growth, yield and biochemical constituents of O. gratissimum.

3 tables, 15 ref

012258   Pratibha Singh;Bhatnagar S K (Biotechnology Dep, D.D.U. Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009) : Serological and molecular properties of coat protein gene of three sugarcane mosaic virus isolates from India. Prog Agric 2008, 8(2), 194-200.

Fifteen varieties of sugarcane from seven states of India were collected for screening of Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) causing mosaic disease. Three varieties, i.e., Co 740, CoM 9006 and Co 62399 showed severe mosaic symptoms. In the present report, the molecular characterization of the coat protein gene. The nucleotide sequences of the coat protein for the three Indian isolates of SCMW were determined and compared with the coat protein sequences of SCMV isolates from other parts of the world. The isolates showed 19.3-94.9% identities of sequences from other parts of the world.

3 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

012257   Pal A;Paul A K (Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, University of Calcutta, 35, Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata-700 019) : Microbial extracellular polymeric substances: central elements in heavy metal bioremediation. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 49-64.

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) of microbial origin are a complex mixture of biopolymers comprising polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic acids, uronic acids, humic substances, lipids, etc. Bacterial secretions, shedding of cell surface materials, cell lysates and adsorption of organic constituents from the environment result in EPS formation in a wide variety of free-living bacteria as well as microbial aggregates like biofilms, bioflocs and biogranules. Irrespective of origin, EPS may be loosely attached to the cell surface or bacteria may be embedded in EPS. Compositional variation exists amongst EPS extracted from pure bacterial cultures and heterogeneous microbial communities which are regulated by the organic and inorganic constituents of the microenvironment. Functionally, EPS aid in cell-to-cell aggregation, adhesion to substratum, formation of flocs, protection from dessication and resistance to harmful exogenous materials. In addition, exopolymers serve as biosorbing agents by accumulating nutrients from the surrounding environment and also play a crucial role in biosorption of heavy metals. Being polyanionic in nature, EPS forms complexes with metal cations resulting in metal immobilization within the exopolymeric matrix. These complexes generally result from electrostatic interactions between the metal ligands and negatively charged components of biopolymers. Moreover, enzymatic activities in EPS also assist detoxification of heavy metals by transformation and subsequent precipitation in the polymeric mass. Although the core mechanism for metal binding and / or transformation using microbial exopolymer remains identical, the existence and complexity of EPS from pure bacterial cultures, biofilms, biogranules and activated sludge systems differ significantly, which in turn affects the EPS-metal interactions. Presents the features of EPS from various sources with a view to establish their role as central elements in bioremediation of heavy metals.

^iia5 tables, 134 ref

012256   Nehra K;Anju;Meenakshi;Malik K (NO, , H.No. 786-A, Sector 15-A, Hisar, Haryana) : Isolation and optimization of conditions for maximum decolorization by textile-dye decolorizing bacteria. Pollut Res 2008, 27(2), 257-64.

Studies were conducted to isolate bacteria capable of decolorizing textile dye effluent. A total of 22 different isolates showing morphological variations were isolated from six different soil samples. Out of these, six isolates which showed quantitative decolorization of the dyes were selected for evaluation of minimum inhibitory concentration, per cent decolorization and for optimization of culture conditions. All the selected isolates showed very high resistance (800-1000 μg/mL) to four commonly used textile dyes (red HE8B, orange TCL, green B and black BT) and could also utilize the dye alone as the carbon source. Maximum per cent decolorization by all the isolates was observed for the red dye, followed by orange, green and least for the black dye. For optimization of conditions for maximum decolorization, parameters such as different carbon (glucose, mannitol and sucrose) and nitrogen (urea, sodium nitrate and ammonium chloride) sources, and variable pH and temperature ranges were also tested.

2 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

012255   Najeema Beevi P A;Anoosha A (Botany Dep, Government College for Women, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Email: najeemapa@gmail.com) : In vitro propagation of Tylophora indica - a plant of high medicinal value. Biomed 2008, 3(3-4), 210-13.

Protocol for plant regeneration through indirect organogenesis from leaf derived callus cultures of Tylophora indica has been established. Best response in terms of callus induction and proliferation was observed in MS medium containing 2mg/l BA and 0 .5mg/l NAA. Maximum shoot regeneration was achieved when this callus was transferred to a medium containing 1.5mg/l KIN and 0.5mg/l IAA. The in vitro shoots were rooted in MS medium supplemented with 1 mg/l IBA. Plantlets transferred to sterile vermiculite for hardening and subsequently to garden soil and sand (3:1) recorded 90% survival.

3 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

012254   Naik N M;Jagadeesh K S;Alagawadi A R (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005) : Microbial decolorization of spentwash. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 41-8.

Spentwash is one of the most complex and cumbersome wastewater with very high BOD, COD and other organic and inorganic toxic constituents. It is dark brown colored and difficult to treat by normal biological process such as activated sludge or anaerobic lagooning. The color is due to the presence of melanoidins, caramels and other polymers. These compounds have anti oxidant properties which render them toxic to microorganisms. Spentwash disposal into the environment is hazardous and has a considerable pollution potential. It affects the aesthetic merit. Its decolorization by physical or chemical methods have been investigated and were found unsuitable. In the recent past, increasing attention has been directed towards utilizing microbial activity for decolorization of spentwash. Reveals various groups of microorganisms which have potential in spentwash decolorization. The role of enzymes in decolorization and the microbial degradation of individual compounds imparting color to spentwash are also discussed.

^iia1 illus, 58 ref

012253   Nagpal V;Srinivasaan M C;Paknikar K M (Centre for Nanobioscience, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agarkar Road, Pune-411 004) : Biodegradation of γ-hexachlorocyclohexane (Lindane) by a non-white rot fungus conidiobolus 03-1-56 isolated from litter. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 134-41.

Biodegradation of chlorinated pesticide γ-hexachlorocyclohexane (lindane) by a nonwhite rot fungus Conidiobolus 03-1-56 is reported for the first time. Conidiobolus 03-1-56, a phycomyceteous fungus isolated from litter, completely degraded lindane on the 5th day of incubation in the culture medium, and GC-ECD studies confirmed that lindane removal did not occur via adsorption on the fungal biomass. Degradation studies using different medium compositions showed that nitrogen/carbon limiting conditions (stress conditions) and presence of veratryl alcohol, induced the secretion of extracellular oxidative enzymes, which enhanced the rate of lindance biodegradation. Under optimum nutrient-limiting conditions, GC-ECD and GC-MS analysis showed complete absence of any degradation metabolite, indicating that lindane was completely mineralized. Assays for tannic acid utilization and lignin peroxidase showed similar enzymatic profiles between Conidiobolus 03-1-56 and standard white rot fungi Pleurotus ostreatus 1200 and Trametes versicolor 1086. Although Conidiobolus 03-1-56 showed a reduced enzyme activity compared to white rot fungi, preliminary evidence indicates that enzymes responsible for lignin degradation by white rots play a key role in lindane degradation by Conidiobolus 03-1-56.

4 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

012252   Mohit Kumar;Vidya Lakshmi C;Khanna S (Biotechnology and Bioinformatics Dep, NIIT Institute of of Information Technology, Balaji Estate, Kalkaji, New Delhi-110 019, Email: sunil.khanna@tni.edu.in) : Microbial biodiversity and in situ bioremediation of endosulfan contaminated soil. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 128-33.

Molecular characterization based on 16s rDNA gene sequence analysis of bacterial colonies isolated from endosulfan contaminated soil showed the presence of Ochrobacterum sp, Burkholderia sp, Pseudomonas alcaligenes, Pseudomonas sp and Arthrobacter sp which degraded 57-90% of à-endosulfan and 74-94% of β-endosulfan after 7days. Whole cells of Pseudomonas sp and Pseudomonas alcaligenes showed 94 and 89% uptake of à-isomer and 86 and 89% of β-endosulfan respectively in 120 min. In Pseudomonas sp, endosulfan sulfate was the major metabolite detected during the degradation of à-isomer, with minor amount of endosulfan diol while in Pseudomonas alcaligenes endosulfan diol was the only product during à-endosulfan degradation. Whole cells of Pseudomonas sp also utilized 83% of endosulfan sulfate in 120 min. In situ applications of the defined consortium consisting of Pseudomonas alcaligenes and Pseudomonas sp (1:1) in plots contaminated with endosulfan showed that 80% of α-endosulfan and 65% of β-endosulfan was degraded after 12 weeks of incubation. Endosulfan sulfate formed during endosulfan degradation was subsequently degraded to unknown metabolites. ERIC-PCR analysis indicated 80% survival of introduced population of Pseudomonas alcaligenes and Pseudomonas sp in treated plots.

6 illus, 20 ref

012251   Marh Anupama P;Vivek Babu K;Ayyanna C (NO, Al-Ameer College of Engineering, Gudivola, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh) : Effect of EDTA, potassium ferrocyanide and sodium potassium tartarate on production of ethanol from jaggery using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Pollut Res 2008, 27(1), 121-3.

Effect of chelating agents, which include EDTA, Potassium Ferrocyanide and Sodium Potassium tartarate on ethanol production from Jaggery using Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCIM 3241, was tested. The experiment was carried out in two sets. In the first set the chelating agents were added to the production medium along with the inoculum, while in the second set they were added after the concentration of organism has reached a stationary phase. It was found that addition of chelating agents along with inoculum gave better results and among the three chelating agents, EDTA resulted in 72g11 of ethanol, which is 33.3% more when compared to the control.

^ssc4 illus, 9 ref

012250   Krishan Kumar;Gill M I S;Sangwan A;Gosal S S (Horticulture Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: kkshau@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro shoot regeneration in nematode tolerant grape rootstock 1613C. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(3), 255-7.

In vitro shoot regeneration studies were carried out in rootstock 1613 C (Vitis solonis x V. labrusca var. Othello) using nodal segment and shoot tip as the explants. The MS medium supplemented with BAP and kinetin in different combinations and concentrations were used for shoot regeneration and proliferation. Maximum explant establishment was achieved when nodal segments were cultured during April. The maximum shoot regeneration in nodal segment was obtained on MS medium supplemented with BAP (1 mgl^-1) + kin (1 mgl^-1), while in shoot tips, it was obtained on MS medium supplemented with BAP (1 mgl^-1) + kin (0.5 mgl^-1). The established shoots were proliferated on MS medium supplemented with BAP (1 mgl^-1) + kin (1 mg l^-1).

2 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

012249   Kasturi K;Sambasiva Rao K R S;Suresh Kumar C (Centre For Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Andhra Pradesh, Email: kasturi.is.kondapalli21@gmail.com) : Protein modeling studies of pathogenic protein of Aspergillus fumigatus based on KEGG analysis - peptidoglycan synthesis. Res J biol Sci 2009, 1(3), 139-43.

Diseases caused by the genus Aspergillus are named aspergillosis. Two types of aspergillosis are observed: allergic and invasive. The symptoms of each type vary from no symptoms to life-threatening. Ones breathing of the spores of A.fumigatus (afm) causes aspergillosis. The metabolic pathway database KEGG analysis has facilitated identification of the pathogenic metabolic proteins which cause the disease of aspergillosis and one of the pathogenic proteins glutamine synthetase (6.3.1.2) a key enzyme of peptidoglycan biosynthesis was used for generation of 3D model using MODWEB an online modeler tool and visualized using RASMOL and further validation was done using PROCHECK so as to utilize the obtained model for further computational analysis like docking for relevant drugs.

5 illus, 5 ref

012248   Kanneganti V;Gupta A K (Plant Biotechnology Dep, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021, Email: akg54@yahoo.com) : Wall associated kinases from plants. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2008, 14(1-2), 109-18.

Wall Associated kinases (WAKs) represent a unique class of receptor-like kinase genes that span the plasma membrane and allow cells to recognize and respond to their extracellular environment 26 WAK/WAK-like genes were identified from the Arabidopsis genome. Functional studies of the different WAK members in Arabidopsis demonstrated that they are involved in various functions in plants, including pathogen resistance, heavy-metal tolerance and plant development. 125 genes from rice (subsp. Japonica) belonging to wall associated kinase gene family were identified by reiterative database searches. We isolated a new member of WAKs in rice, designated as OsiWAK1, the silencing of which led to impaired root development and sterility due to anther indehiscence. In the current review, we discuss about the isolation and identification of WAK members from various plant species, different domains found in the WAK proteins that make them unique and the various roles played by WAKs in the plant growth and development.

^iia2 illus, 1 table, 76 ref

012247   Kamaludeen S P B;Ramasamy K (NO, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Trichi, ADAC&RI Campus, Navalur, Trichy, Email: parwink@gmail.com) : Rhizoremediation of metals: harnessing microbial communities. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 80-8.

With the increasing successful stories of decontamination, different strategies for metal remediation are gaining importance and popularization in developing countries. Rhizoremediation, is one such promising option that harnesses the impressive capabilities of microorganisms associated with roots to degrade organic pollutants and transform toxic metals. Since it is a plant based in-situ phytorestoration technique it is proven to be economical, efficient and easy to implement under field conditions. Plants grown in metal contaminated sites harbor unique metal tolerant and resistant microbial communities in their rhizosphere. These rhizo-microflora secrete plant growth promoting substances, siderophores, phytochelators to alleviate metal toxicity, enhance the bioavailability of metals (phytoremediation) and complexation of metals (phytostabilisation). Selection of right bacteria/consortia and inoculation to seed/ roots of suitable plant species will widen the perspectives of rhizoremediation.

^iia1 illus, 66 ref

012246   Jawarkar A A;Dubey K V;Nair A;Singh S K (NO, NEERI, Nehru Marg, Nagpur-440 020, Email: aa_juwarkar@neeri.res.in) : Bioremediation of multi-metal contaminated soil using biosurfactant - a noval approach. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 142-6.

Unconventional nutrient medium, distillery spent wash (1:3) diluted) was used to produce di-rhamnolipid biosurfactant by Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain BS2. Assessed the potential of the biosurfactant as a washing agent for metal removal from multimetal contaminated soil (Cr-940 ppm; Pb-900 ppm; Cd-430 ppm; Ni-880 ppm; Cu-480 ppm). Out of the treatments of contaminated soil with tap water and rhamnolipid biosurfactant, the latter was found to be potent in mobilization of metal and decontamination of contaminated soil. Within 36 hours of leaching study, di-rhamnolipid as compared to tap water facilitated 13 folds higher removal of Cr from the heavy metal spiked soil whereas removal of Pb and Cu was 9-10 and 14 folds higher respectively. Leaching of Cd and Ni was 25 folds higher from the spiked soil. This shows that leaching behavior of biosurfactant was different for different metals. The use of wastewater for production of biosurfactant and its efficient use in metal removal make it a strong applicant for bioremediation.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

012245   Gupta S M;Ahmed Z;Narendra Kumar (NO, Defence Agricultural Research Laboratory, Haldwani-263 139) : Isolation of cDNA fragment of glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase gene from seabuckthorn. Def Sci J 2009, 59(2), 147-51.

The contribution of membrane lipids particularly the level of unsaturalion of fatty acids, to chilling sensitivity of plants has been intensively discussed. The biosynthesis of phosphatidyl glycerot represents a central pathway in lipiti metabolism in all organisms. Glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (GPAT) catalyses the first step of glycerolipid biosynthesis and, therefore, if is a potential site for triacylglycerol synthesis regulation. The cDNA for GPAT gene has been cloned and extensively characterised from several plants excluding Seabuckthorn Hippophae rhamnoides. The isolation of partial cDNA (689 bp. Accession No. EU08I817) for GPAT gene from Seabuckthorn plant has been reported for the first time that shows 97 per cent homology with the Lycopersicon esculentun at nucleotide level and 93 per cent homology with the Capsicum annuum at protein level. Full-length cloning and overexpression of GPAT from Seabuckthorn will modify the ability of vegetable crops to tolerate chilling temperature by protecting the photo synthetic machinery from photoinhibition under cold conditions.

^ssc3 illus, 23 ref

012244   Colin Scott et al (NO, CSIRO Entomology, GPO Box 1700, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia) : Enzymatic basis for pesticide bioremediation. Indian J Microbiol 2008, 48(1), 65-79.

Enzymes are central to the biology of many pesticides, influencing their modes of action, environmental fates and mechanisms of target species resistance. Since the introduction of synthetic xenobiotic pesticides, enzymes responsible for pesticide turnover have evolved rapidly, in both the target organisms and incidentally exposed biota. Such enzymes are a source of significant biotechnological potential and form the basis of several bioremediation strategies intended to reduce the environmental impacts of pesticide residues. Describes examples of enzymes possessing the major activities employed in the bioremediation of pesticide residues, and some of the strategies by which they are employed. In addition, several examples of specific achievements in enzyme engineering are considered, highlighting the growing trend in tailoring enzymatic activity to a specific biotechnologically relevant function.

^iia7 illus, 104 ref

012243   Chidambaram Pillai S;Jasmin Francy F (P.G. Plant Biology and Biotechnology Dep, V.O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, Email: drcpbotvoc@yahoo.co.in) : Pharmacognostic studies on the root of Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth. Biomed 2008, 3(1), 94-9.

Results of pharmacognostical studies on the roots of Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth are presented. The results on morpho-anatomical and pbysico-cbemical studies have been discussed. Quantitative estimation of total ash value (5.27%), acid insoluble ash (2.89%) and water-soluble ash (7.50%) may serve as useful indices for the identification of the powdered drug. Histological studies elucidating membranous periderm with deep irregular fissures, wide secondary phloem with diffusely distributed thick walled radial multiples and wider secondary xylem vessels at the centre and narrow at the periphery may also serve as useful index in the identification of the tissue.

3 tables, 13 ref

012242   Arun Sasi;Bhakyaraj R;Yogananth N;Chanthutu A;Ravikumar M (Microbiology Dep, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 422) : Effective production of biomass of Aspergillus sp using different oilcakes. Res J biol Sci 2009, 1(3), 168-77.

Growth of Aspergillus species on agriculture waste materials like ground nut oilcake, Sesamum oilcake, coconut oilcake medium in submerged fermentation were used to determining the dry biomass, crude protein, temperature stability and final pH values. A. niger and A. oryzae were isolated from marine sponges. The oil cakes were supplemented with dextrose, glucose, and lactose and different nitrogen sources such as (NH₄)₂ SO₄, NaNO₃, NH₄Cl, KNO₃, peptone, urea and yeast extract. The study proved that oil cakes are more suitable production media to enhance the biomass and protein production from Aspergillus species compared with other ordinary laboratory production media. This study also proved that among the oil cakes employed the groundnut oil cake is the most successful for the fungal biomass production and among the two Aspergillus species employed A. niger responded better in all the supplemented media producing greater biomass and protein.

3 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

012241   Anandkumar B;Maruthamuthu S (Biotechnology Dep, Sourashtra College, Madurai-625 004, Email: biocorrcecri@gmail.com) : Molecular identification and corrosion behaviour of manganese oxidizers on orthodontic wires. Curr Sci 2008, 94(7), 891-6.

Manganese oxidizing bacteria (MOB) were isolated and identified using molecular techniques (16S rRNA gene sequencing) and the electrochemical behaviour of these isolates on orthodontic wires was studied by employing polarization and impedance techniques. Staphylococcus aureus (EF516983), Bacillus pumilus (EF516984), Planococcus rifitioensis (EF516985), Lysinibacillus boronitolerans (EF516986), B. fusiformis (EF516987), L. boronitolerans (EF516988) and B. thuringiensis (EF516989) were identified as manganese oxidizers in orthodontic appliances. It is interesting to note that ten control samples did not have any manganese oxidizers. It reveals that stainless steel enhances the proliferation of manganese oxidizers and accelerates the corrosion of orthodontic wires. Since manganese is toxic to human beings and causes enhancement of nervous disorder, an in-depth study is needed in future.

^ssc4 illus, 4 tables, 44 ref

012240   Amanjot Singh;Grover A (Plant Molecular Biology Dep, Delhi South Campus Univ, New Delhi-110 021, Email: anil.anilgrover@gmail.com) : Genetic engineering for heat tolerance in plants. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2008, 14(1-2), 155-66.

High temperature tolerance has been genetically engineered in plants mainly by over-expressing the heat shock protein genes or indirectly by altering levels of heat shock transcription factor proteins. Apart from heat shock proteins, thermotolerance has also been altered by elevating levels of osmolytes, increasing levels of cell detoxification enzymes and through altering membrane fluidity. It is suggested that Hsps may be directly implicated in thermotolerance as agents that minimize damage to cell proteins. The other three above approaches leading to thermotolerance in transgenic experiments though operate in their own specific ways but indirectly might be aiding in creation of more reductive and energy-rich cellular environment, thereby minimizing the accumulation of damaged proteins. Intervention in protein metabolism such that accumulation of damaged proteins is minimized thus appears to be the main target for genetically-engineering crops against high temperature stress.

1 illus, 88 ref

012239   Abirami K;Singh S K;Room Singh;Mohapatra T; Raj Kumar A (NO, Indian Institute of Spices Research, Calicut, Kerala) : Genetic diversity studies on polyembryonic and monoembryonic mango genotypes using molecualr markers. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(3), 258-62.

Twelve polyembryonic and ten monoembryonic mango genotypes were examined using random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers with 50 decamer primers of arbitrary sequence. Out of the 50 primers screened, 30 were informative and showed good amplification of mango DNA. Cluster analysis based on the RAPD markers produced a dendrogram of the genetic relatedness among the 22 polyembryonic and monoembryonic genotypes. The major bifurcations in the dendrogram separated the genotypes based on their embryo type. The grouping indicates that monoembryonic and polyembryonic genotypes have a different genetic base with different geographical origin. Among the monoembryonic genotypes, Sensation and Tommy Atkins were quite dose based on their common geographical origin. The monoembryonic hybrid, Pusa Arunima developed at IARI, New Delhi formed a unique cluster, while the polyembryonic genotype Starch did not group with any other and formed a distinct cluster. Results suggested the highly heterozygous nature of different genotypes.

2 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

011347   Suresh V;Srinivasarao D (NO, Center for Biotechnology Acharya Nagarjuna Univ Nagarjuna Nagar, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, Email: sureshvalli@gmail.com) : Plantibodies. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 120-5.

The use of plant tissues to obtain antibodies has emerged as a significant method of producing many recombinant proteins, for therapeutic use. Such antibodies are called plantibodies. Genetic engineering techniques and the tools of molecular biology are used to study plantibodies and such studies include sequencing of DNA, the discovery of restriction enzymes etc. These tools, which are used to synthesize human antibodies, have stimulated much research and discoveries. Production of complex protein that is folded, processed, easily purified and can be shown to be safe for pharmaceutical use using the tool transgene expression is popularly called molecular farming of proteins. This article presents a general review on the subject, discussing the successful accomplishments in this line of research during the past years and the several applications of plant-produced antibodies so far tried out.

17 ref

011346   Srinivasa Reddy K;Joji Reddy L;Ravindra Babu P;Rama Rao B;Sambasiva Rao K R S (Biotechnology Dep, Loyola Academy, Secunderabad, Andhra Pradesh, Email: kovvuri99@gmail.com) : Effect of stimulators on citric acid production by Aspergillus niger MTCC 281 through submerged fermentation. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 77-85.

The stimulating effect of four additives phytate, vegetable oil and methanol, were evaluated on citric acid production by Aspergillus niger MTCC 281 grown on cheese whey (CW). The addition of methanol at 15 and 30 g/kg CW at the initial stages of fermentation increased citric acid production, whereas a reduction in citric acid production was observed with a higher concentration of methanol. The production of citric acid increased while adding 15 g vegetable oil/kg CW, where as levels higher than 30 g vegetable oil/kg CW had an inhibitory effect on citric acid production. Supplementation with a high concentration of phytate decreased citric acid production. However, a low level of phytate had no adverse or stimulating effect. The second optimization employed a central composite design (CCD), where the variables selected were phytate (2.5 - 85 g/kg CW), vegetable oil (2.5 - 85 g/kg CW) & methanol (2.5 - 85 g/kg CW). Using the five-level CCD, the two independent variables, phytate and methanol, were identified to have effects on citric acid production at 72 and 120 hrs. The predicted optimum concentration of stimulators for citric acid production was phytate 19.6 g, vegetable oil 28.9 g/kg & methanol 40.9 g/kg CW. After optimization, citric acid production reached the maximum 95.7 g/kg CW at 120 hrs when fermentation was carried out with the optimized concentration of stimulators.

3 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

011345   Sharma A;Bardhan D;Patel R (Department of P.G. Studies and Research in Biological Sciences, Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur (M.P.), Email: anjoo_1999@yahoo.com) : Optimization of physical parameters for lipase production from Arthrobacter sp. BGCC#490. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(2), 178-83.

The physical parameters for the production of thermostable, alkaline lipase from Arthrobacter sp. BGCC# 490 were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM), employing face centered central composite design (FCCCD). The design was employed by selecting pH, temperature and incubation period as the model factors and to achieve maximum yield, interaction of these factors was studied by RSM. A second-order quadratic model and response surface method showed that the optimum conditions for lipase production (pH 10.0, temperature 40°C and incubation period 48 h) resulted in 1.6-fold increase in lipase production (13.75 Euml^-1), as compared to the initial level (8.6 EUml^-1) after 48 h of incubation, whereas its value predicted by the quadratic model was 12.8 EUml^-1. Lipase showed stability in the pH range 8-10 and temperature range 40-60°C, with maximum activity at pH 9.0 and temperature 50°C. Lipase activity was enhanced in the presence of K⁺, Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ ions, but inhibited by Hg²⁺ ions. The enzyme exhibited high activity in the presence of acetone, isopropanol and ethanol, but was unaffected by methanol. These properties suggest that the lipase may find potential applications in the detergent industry. Also demonstrated the feasibility of using experimental design tools to optimize physical parameters for lipase production by an indigenous Arthrobacter sp.

011344   Shanthi V;Rojabegam H;Yogananth N;Bhakyaraj R;Chanthuru A;Sasi A (PG and Research Dep of Microbiology, J.J. College of Arts and Science, Pudukkottai-622 404) : Rapid in vitro propagation of medicinally important Rhinacanthus nasutus (L) kurz and screening for its antibacterial activity. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 114-19.

Callus cultures were obtained from leaf and stem explants of Rhinacanthus nasutus L. on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D), Indole acetic acid (IAA), a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA), N⁶-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Kinetin (Kin). The highest frequency (68.00%) of callus induction was observed in MS medium containing 1.5 mgL^-1 2,4-D + 0.5 mgL^-1 kin (leaf explants). Development of adventitious shoots occurred when the apical bud and nodal segments were cultured in MS medium supplemented with BAP, Kin, IAA and NAA. Shoots differentiation was best (5-6 shoots) in nodal segments on MS medium containing 1.5 mgL^-1 BAP + 0.5 mgL^-1 IAA. Rhinacanthus nasutus L. was tested for antibacterial activity against four important human pathogens. Powdered leaf material was extracted with two different solvents viz., Chloroform and Ethyl acetate + Chloroform solvents using Soxhlet apparatus. Among the two solvents tested, Ethyl acetate + Chloroform extract showed significant activity when compared to chloroform solvent.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

011343   Saiprasad G V S;Mythili J B;Nagesh M;Joshi R; Ravishankar K V;Anand L (Biotechnology Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta Lake Post, Bangalore-560 089, Email: gvssaiprasad@yahoo.co.in) : Changes in polygalacturonase, cellulase and pectin methylesterase activities and sugars during fruit ripening in banana varieties ney poovan and robusta in response to ethylene treatment. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(1), 1-5.

The activity profiles of the cell wall hydrolytic enzymes polygalacturonase, cellulase and pectin methylesterase under both control and ethylene treated conditions indicated considerable variation in two varieties of banana viz., Ney Poovan and Robusta. Induction of polygalacturonase and cellulase activity upon ethylene treatment was observed in both the varieties although the induction of PG in Ney Poovan was 4x greater than that of Robusta, while cellulase activity started declining towards the final stages of ripening in Ney Poovan samples unlike in Robusta where it continued rising up to a stage before final sampling. For pectin methylesterase, induction was observed only during the initial stages of ripening in Robusta but was observed initially and during final stages of ripening for Ney Poovan samples. Total soluble (TSS) increased with increase in ripening in induced and uninduced samples of both the varieties while the reducing sugar content also showed similar trend except for the induced samples of Ney Poovan, which maintained constant reducing sugar content two days after harvest. In terms of sugar content, Ney Poovan recorded higher TSS and reducing sugar contents as compared to Robusta.

2 illus, 22 ref

011342   Reginald M;Helen Diana Y (Botany and Research Centre Dep, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Role of the micro alga Dunaliella salina in salt biotechnology. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 273-7.

The ability of algae to produce oxygen in phytosynthesis as well as their uptake rates of N and P make them effective components of any biological system. The organisms living in solar saltworks constitute a biological system, which are able to aid or harm salt production. Systems aiding salt production maintain stable species composition and concentrations. They produce and accumulate sufficient organic matter to enrich the biota, prevent leakage and also increase the solar energy absorption. The natural conditions do not support more salt production and there is a requirement for the biological management. The naturally available organic and inorganic nutrients support the development of Dunaliella salinai algal blooms which are beneficial for solar salt heat absorption resulting in faster evaporation and an increase in the salt quality.

2 tables, 12 ref

011341   Nithya S;Sumithira P (Dr. MGR Janaki Arts and Science College for Women, , Durgabhai Deshmukh Road, R.A. Puram, Chennai, Email: nithyasiva@hotmail.com) : Efficacy of bacteriophage therapy against septicemia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa in mice. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 71-6.

The effect of the bacteriophage therapy against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, using a mice model was attemted in the present study. Lytic phages were isolated from sewage sample using MTCC-3541 and it was partially purified using PEG and NaCl. The selected phage was found to be effective against a clinical isolate (Pseudomonas aeruginosa in vitro. Blood sepsis was induced to mice in vivo using the clinical isolate. Phage therapy was given to these mice at different time periods. The efficacy of phage against the infection was observed to be most effective during the simultaneous inoculation of phage and infection where ^~1 viable cell/ 0.1ml of blood was observed after treatment. Administration of phage prior the day of infection showed minor effect of about ^~ 18 viable cells/0.1ml of blood; whereas a day after the infection it was more effective (^~3 viable cells/0.1ml of blood) compared to the antibiotic therapy with Ciprofloxacin (^~7 viable cells/0.1ml of blood). The efficacy of phage was observed along with that of a combination of antibiotics in mice.

2 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

011340   Muthezhilan R;Newton Raja A;Abirami D; Jayalakshmi S (NO, AMET Univ, 135, East Coast Road, Kanathur, Chennai, Email: mycomuthu@gmail.com) : Pectinase enzyme from an estuarine strain of Aspergillus fumigatus. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 64-70.

Pectinolytic enzymes have widespread biotechnological applications. Among the applications, Primary screening for pectinase producing fungi was done in pectinase agar medium based on the zone formation. Compared to water samples, sediment samples harbored more number of pectinase producing fungi. Totally 14 strains were isolated and five were found to be potential. Those five strains were identified as Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, Mucor hiemalis, Penicillium citrinum, Penicillum oxalicum. Among the 5 strains, based on their zone formation, Aspergillus fumigatus were selected for the optimization study. Enzymatic activity was maximum at 35°C, pH 5.5 and at 2% of salt concentration, Oil cake shown to be an ideal carbon source and peptone, an ideal nitrogen source, and maximum activity was observed at 72hrs of incubation.

6 tables, 38 ref

011339   Geetha M;GeethaRamani D (Dr. MGR Janaki Arts and Science College for Women, , Durgabhai Deshmukh Road, R.A. Puram, Chennai, Email: geetha_bhuvana@yahoo.com) : Optimization of alternate carbon and nitrogen source for novel peptide antibiotic produced by soil actinomycetes. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 86-91.

The Actinomycetes isolates AR, G1, from Western Ghats soil, which showed potent antimicrobial activity were used for the study. Microscopic examination showed that the isolates belong to Streptomyces sp. Alternate carbon and nitrogen sources were supplemented to the fermentation medium and checked for antibiotic production by well diffusion method against test organisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans). Thermostability, Acetone precipitation, Ammonium sulphate precipitation and addition of chloramphenicol to the medium were done to confirm the peptide nature of the antibiotic. The molecular range of the antibiotic was determined by plating dialyzed filtrates in well-diffusion method.

4 tables, 4 ref

011338   Chattopadhyay T;Biswas T;Chatterjee M;Mandal N;Bhattacharyya S (Crop Research Unit & Dept. of Biotechnology, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia-741 252) : Biochemical and SSR marker based characterization of some Bengal landraces of rice suffixed with `sail' in their name. Indian J Genet Pl Breed 2008, 68(1), 15-20.

Twenty five rice landraces of undivided Bengal (name of all these landraces have 'sail' or 'Shali' in their suffix) which were popular before popularization of semi-dwarf high yielding varieties, either for cooking, puffing, popping and flash flood tolerance have been studied using biochemical parameters and their linked SSR markers. Except Shali (blockish small bold), and Shali (golden long) all genotypes contain more than 24% amylose. RM190 linked with amylose content generated a rare allele in Shali (golden long). Another linked marker RM251 could not explain the differential amylose content in studied rice genotypes. RM 236, a SSR marker linked with rice bran content shows a rare allele (160bp) in Shali (blakish small bold) and Netaisail. Rabansail, Kobirajsail, Mallicksail and Kakudsail have intermediate gelatinization temperature and remaining genotypes have high gelatinization temperature as indicated by alkali spreading value. Linked marker, RM 253 could not explain the difference in alkali spreading values. Screening the genotypes with RM 219, linked with submergence tolerance in rice, generated 4 alleles, viz., 192bp, 204bp, 220bp and 240bp. Allele 1 (192bp) is present in Hardijhingasail and Sankarsail only, and may be considered as a rare allele. None of the genotypes contained 85% or more similarity between each other at molecular level that suggests the absence of duplication of the landraces. RM 206 generated six alleles although polymorphism information content (PIC) value was found to be higher in case of RM 253 (0.491). So both the markers could be used for diversity analysis in rice.

3 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

011337   Bhat G;Bhat S;Kuruvinashetti M S (Biotechnology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: smangala67@rediffmail.com) : Molecular analysis of endochitinase gene cloned from trichoderma spp.. Indian J Genet Pl Breed 2008, 68(1), 68-72.

Genes encoding endochitinase (chit46) were cloned from two native species of Trichoderma viz., Trichoderma viride IABT1012 and Trichoderma harzianum IABT1015 through PCR amplification using specific primers. The nucleotide sequence of cloned gene indicated the presence of reading frame of 1290 nucleotides. Similar to other chitinases these chitinase genes have chitinase active site (FDGIDVDWE), putative chitin binding site (XXXSXGG), 21 amino acid signal peptide and secondary processing site at 32-33rd amino acid position. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that these two genes fall in a same cluster and more related to reported T. harzianum endochitinase.

3 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

011336   Balaji S;Bhat A I;Eapen S J (Biotechnology Dep, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Univ, Manipal, Email: aib65@yahoo.com) : Phylogenetic reexamination of Cucumber mosaic virus isolates based on 1a, 2a, 3a and 3b proteins. Indian J Virol 2008, 19(1), 17-25.

The protein based phylogenetic trees based on 21 isolates of Cucumber mosaic virus estimated for la, 2a, 3a and 3b proteins, suggest that the 3a movement protein (MP) and 3b coat protein (CP) were congruent and indicated no significant difference (p-value= 0.699 > 0.05) in the branch lengths. The conservation might be due to the coordination of CP with MP. Hence it supports the earlier sub grouping of CMV based on 1a and 3a proteins in addition to coat protein. In the CP and MP phylogenies, on the basis of branch length the subgroup IA appears ancestral to the subgroup IB. Drastic variations of branch length was also observed in a few isolates. There are significant variations in the branch length between la and 2a proteins indicating that the RNAs had independent evolutionary histories.

4 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

011335   Arora A (Plant Physiology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012) : Getting more colourful flowers by painting with genes. Indian Hort 2008, 53(4), 21-3.

Scientists have recognized the potential of plant and flower pigmentation as a tool for elucidating some of the basic principles of genetics and biochemistry. The biosynthesis of flower pigments can be used as a system for studying the temporal and spatial control of gene expression and the compartmentalization of metabolites in a cell. Because of the commercial value of flowers, their pigmentation has also been a subject of applied research for nearly four centuries. Until recently, it was only possible to develop new varieties by traditional breeding techniques, i.e. continuous crossing and selection, and to a lesser extent, by mutation breeding. Today, however, transgenic approaches are also being introduced. The impressive results of traditional breeding are obvious to anyone who visits flower exhibition and auctions. These varieties, with their range of colours and patterns, constitute an enormous mutant collection for ornamental beautification and scientific studies.

ref

010332   Wathore T S;Patil M B (Univ Dep of Biochemistry, L.I.T. Premises, Nagpur Univ, Nagpur-440 033, Email: trupti_wt@yahoo.co.in) : Production of thermostable alkaline proteinase by Aspergillus fumigatus. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 779-87.

Indigenously isolated Aspergillus fumigatus was found to produce thermostable alkaline proteinase in a medium containing wheat bran after 8 days of incubation at 30°C with initial pH 10. Additional carbon sources like arabinose, pectin and inulin and nitrogen sources such as ammonium nitrate, ammonium phosphate and yeast extract increased enzyme production. Metal ions like K⁺, Zn⁺⁺ and Mn⁺⁺ stimulated the synthesis of proteinase production. However sodium, potassium and ZSM salts of zeolites and EDTA inhibited enzyme synthesis. The partially purified enzyme exhibited broad range of pH stability from pH 9 to pH 11 at 60°C. The optimum pH and temperature was found to be 10.5 and 55°C, respectively. The enzyme was stable at 80°C for 20 minutes. The heavy metal ions like CO⁺⁺, Pb⁺⁺, Mn⁺⁺ and Zn⁺⁺ did not inhibit the enzyme activity. It was stable with the organic solvents like petroleum ether followed by isoamyl alcohol. The partially purified proteinase also exhibited compatibility with detergents. It was found to retain 100% activity with Active wheel and Vim at 37°C for 30 minutes indicating the possible suitability of its exploitation in detergent industries.

6 illus, 14 tables, 32 ref

010331   Vani N;Suganthi R (School of Biotechnology, Dr.G.R.Damodaran College of Science, Coimbatore-641 014, Email: vani_grd@rediffmail.com) : Isolation and characterization of an extracellular protease by Bacillus subtilis from poultry soil. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 753-8.

Bacillus species are versatile chemoheterotrophs capable of respiration using a variety of simple organic compounds (Sugars, Amino acids Organic acids). Bacillus sp. produces many different extracellular hydrolytic enzymes, which include proteases (Markland and Smith 1971; Priest, 1977). Proteases execute a large variety of functions and have important biotechnological applications in detergents, leather industry, food industry, Pharmaceutical industry and bioremediation processes (Anwar and Saleemuddin, 1998; Gupta et al. 2002). Many different types of bacteria produce extracellular enzymes. In this study, attempts have been made to compare the production of protease from Bacillus subtilis and to characterize the enzyme activity. Bacillus subtilis was subjected to different substrates and the protease activity was assayed by the method of Lowry's et al. (1951). It was also subjected to different optimum pH, temperature, carbon source and nitrogen source at which Bacillus subtilis showed the highest protease activity was recorded. Therefore the appreciably high enzyme activity and stability at high temperature and pH makes Bacillus subtilis an industrially promising organism with special interest for basic and applied research.

5 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

010330   Suryam A;Singara Charya M A (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal, Andhra Pradesh, Email: suryam_aruri@yahoo.co.in) : Pectin methyl esterase (PME) production by six fruit rot fungi. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 793-6.

Pectins are very complex polysaccharides found in primary and middle lamella of the fruits and vegetables. Pectin Methyl Esterase (E.C.3.1 1.11) breaks the pectin by hydrolysis and generates Poly Galacturonic Acid (PGA) and methanol. PME activity was estimated in pectin supplemented Asthana and Hawker's broth for in vitro and fruits like Grapes, Sapota, Mango, Apples and Tomatoes for in vivo studies. Six fruit rot fungi viz., Rhizoctonia solani, Mucor racemosus, Rhizopus stolanifer, Penicillium citrinum, Aspergillus flavus and A. niger were tried to estimate the PME in vivo and in vitro. Aspergillus niger and A.flavus produced higher PME after 14th day of incubation period and both these species are responsible for higher PME after 4"' day of incubation period in grape juice extract, and hence, can be used in fruit juice technology.

2 tables, 13 ref

010329   Singh M P;Pandey V K;Pandey A K;Srivastava A K;Vishwakarma N K;Singh V K (Biotechnology Dep, V.B.S. Purvanchal Univ, Jaunpur-222 001, Email: mohanbio_62@yahoo.co.in) : Production of xylanase by white rot fungi on wheat straw. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 859-62.

Six species of white rot fungi i.e. Pleurotus citrinopileatus, P. eryngii, P. flabellatus, P. florida, P. ostreatus and P. sajor-caju were grown on wheat straw under in vitro as well as in vivo condition. Maximum activity of xylanase (3.2.1.8) under in vitro condition was observed on the 10th day of incubation by P. eryngii (23.33 Uh^-1mL^-1) followed by P. citrinopileatus (20.88 Uh^-1mL^-1) and P. ostreatus (13.33 Uh^-1mL^-1) on the 15th day. After 15^-1 day there was decrease in the enzyme activities till the end of the experiment. Under in vivo condition also P. eryngii showed maximum xylanase activity on hot water treated (21.88 Uh^-1ml^-1) as well as chemically treated (12.64 Uh^-1mL^-1) wheat straw. Hot water treated substrate supported better production of the enzyme than chemically treated substrate.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

010328   Shinde D B;Gujar B V;Patil H B;Satpute S A; Kashid U B (College of Agricultural Biotechnology, , Latur, Maharashtra) : Protocol for isolation of genomic DNA from livestock blood for microsatellite analysis. Indian J Anim Res 2008, 42(4), 279-81.

Isolation of pure high molecular weight genomic DNA is a pre-requisite in microsatellite studies. The phenol-chloroform method of DNA extraction from whole blood usually involves several steps which are time consuming. Further the phenol is corrosive and toxic. A simple procedure called High salt method was further optimized for isolation of high molecular weight genomic DNA from much lesser quantity of buffalo blood i.e. only from 200 μl, which helped in avoiding wastage of blood sample and also saving costly chemicals. The optimized High salt method produced good yield of pure high molecular weight genomic DNA.

2 illus, 12 ref

010327   Sharma P;Asthir B (Oilseeds Section. Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, PAU, Ludiana-141 004, Email: Pushp20@yahoo.com) : Role of sucrose catabolising enzymes associated with fibre elongation in hybrid and parental lines of cotton. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 457-60.

Role of sucrose catabolising enzymes viz. acid invertase, neutral invertase and sucrose synthase (in the cleavage direction) in relation to soluble sugars were studied in hybrid and its parental lines of cotton. Higher activities of soluble acid invertase, sucrose synthase and low sugars in intra-hirsutum hybrid (Fateh) indicates the faster metabolic state during the elongation phase of fibre growth. Fibre elongation may probably be requiring more glucose and fructose for its onward utilization to generate carbon for primary wall formation. In general, acid invertase was the pre-dominant sucrose hydrolyzing enzyme followed by sucrose synthase in hybrid and its parental lines. On the whole, total free sugars declines during the entire growth and development period of fibre formation. Parental lines had higher amount of both reducing and non-reducing sugars than the hybrid. The probable role of sucrose hydrolysing/ catabolising enzymes in relation to fibre elongation in hybrid and parental lines has been discussed.

5 tables, 18 ref

010326   Sharma A K;Yadav A S;Bajaj A;Rai A K;Mir F A; Lone S A (Molecular Biology and Seed Technology Laboratory, Govt Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya, (MVM), Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh) : Novel in vitro micropropagation protocol for the conservation of Mimosa pudica L. - a multipurpose medicinal plant. Flora Fauna 2008, 14(2), 223-8.

Demonstrated a novel protocol for mass propagation of plant Mimosa pudica L. via direct organogen-esis from axillary segment, nodal segment, internodes and shoot tip explant on M.S. medium supplemented with different concentration of growth regulators. Addition of NAA (1.0 mg l^-1) with BAP (4.0 mg l^-1) showed enhanced number of shoot development with the emergence of large number of shoot buds at the base of the explants, which later on differentiated into shoots. As a result of which a large number of shoots i.e. 64 and 46 have been generated respectively. However, decrease in concentration of NAA (0.2 mg l^-1) and BAP (1.0 mg l^-1) was found to induce rapid elongation and induction of roots. Further, uniform root induction was found in NAA (1.0 mg l^-1). Rooted plantlets were transplanted in potting mixture under controlled polyhouse conditions followed by their successful establishment in the field.

3 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

010325   Satheeshkumar P K;Murugiah V;Gupta A K (Plant Biotechnology Dep, School of Biotechnology, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021, Email: akg54@sify.com) : Isolation of good quality RNA from the woody species Casuarina equisetifolia. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 789-92.

Casuarina equisetifolia belongs to the family of Casuarinaceae. It possesses many unique characters like tolerance to saline salt, temperature, drought etc. To evaluate the gene pool of these plants, there should be an efficient RNA extraction protocol, which can give good quality RNA. In the trials we have experienced that many of the published protocols for RNA extraction in woody plants failed to yield good quality RNA. Therefore we have developed a protocol to isolate RNA from the secondary branches/ needles and callus of this tree species. The protocol described here is simple, fast, effective and cheap using very common lab chemicals. The RNA extracted was of very good quality with an average A_260/280 value of 1.8. The amount of RNA obtained was also found to be as high as 25-30 μg/100mg of tissue. Reverse transcription was done using this RNA sample and the cDNA obtained was found to be useful in RAPD-PCR experiments.

2 illus, 20 ref

010324   Sarlach R S;Sekhon P S;Sohu R S;Gill M S (Plant Breeding Dep, Genetics and Biotechnology, PAU, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: rashpal_041@hotmail.com) : Parawilt in Bt cotton and its amelioration. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 323-6.

Parawilt, of cotton, involves sudden drooping of leaves when irrigation is applied after long dry spell. It was first reported in Punjab in kharif 2004 in Bt cotton hybrid trial. During 2006, serious out break of Parawilt was observed in Bt cotton hybrids in cotton Belt of Punjab. Thereafter, experiments to investigate role of factors like ridge making to reduce water stagnation effect, time of irrigation application and ethylene inhibitors were conducted at farmer's field where parawilt incidence up to 40% was recorded when irrigated the field after long dry spell. It was observed that the symptoms of parawilt started appearing with in 36-48 hrs of applying irrigation. There was no difference in parawilt incidence when irrigation was applied during morning, evening or at night. But when ridges were made manually before irrigation, the crop showed no parawilt although flat irrigation resulted in parawilt. Among the remedial measures, use of ethylene production inhibitor like cobalt chloride @ 10μg mL^-1 was applied before and after irrigation. The foliar application of inhibitor of ethylene production (Cobalt chloride @ 10 μg mL^-1 during 36-48 hr after irrigation helped in complete recovery from parawilt within 5-7 days of spray. However, there was no recovery when permanent wilting has already set in. This investigation immensely demonstrated the beneficial effect of inhibitors of ethylene production resulting in recovery of the wilted plants due to neutralization of ethylene action. To confirm the role of ethylene production in parawilt, such symptoms were artificially induced by applying ethephon - an ethylene producing chemical. These wilted plants showed recovery in a week's time when sprayed with ethylene inhibitors (cobalt chloride or silver nitrate @ 10μg mL^-1). The synchrony of parawilt with ethephon application and further recovery by ethylene inhibitors suggested the role of ethylene in causing parawilt.

1 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

010323   Ramchander M;Prasad M S K;Vasavi D;Girisham S;Reddy S M (Biochemistry Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: sivasrigirisham@yahoo.co.in) : Production of asparaginases by four anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria isolated from leather industry effluents. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 485-7.

Production of antileukemic enzyme L-asparaginase by four anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria isolated from Leather industry effluents was investigated and discussed in this paper. Rps.rutila was a good producer of asparaginase, followed by Rb.capsulatus, Rsp.rubrum and Rps.acidophila. No positive correlation between asparaginase activity and biomass production could be obtained. Degree of asparaginase production varied with the bacterium and incubation period.

2 tables, 13 ref

010322   Muthusivaramapandian M;Arrivukkarasan S; Aravindan R;Viruthagiri T (Chemical Enginering Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: donaravind@yahoo.com) : Perspectives and applications of anticancer enzyme L-asparaginase. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 851-4.

Cancer, an incurable disease that causes about 22.8% of all deaths remains as a challenging one for the scientists. It is very obvious that we were in the critic position to search for new drugs that have very low side effects with very high activity against cancerous cells. In such an emergency we were supposed to turn over to the natural drugs, the Biomolecules especially the enzymes for curing such drastic diseases. L-Asparaginase is a therapeutic enzyme against the Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and has been produced from various sources that could be used as a drug against ALL after proper modification or immobilization. The quench for Eukaryotic microorganisms that may produce minimal side effects with high activity could yield enzyme to the expectations.

12 ref

010321   Kusuma M P;Chandana Lakshmi M V V (NO, , D. No. 45-53-1/2, Abidnagar, Akkayapalem, Visakhapatnam-530 016, Email: mpkusuma@rediffmail.com) : Effect of pectinase concentration produced utilizing whole wheat flour on the colour yield of enzyme extracted carotenoids. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 777-8.

Batch fermentation was carried out using cereal raw materials by Aspergillus flavus. It was found that utilizing whole wheat flour as a cheap and readily available cereal raw material, it was possible to obtain pectinlyase activity at a very acceptable yield. A comparative study was carried out to estimate (3 -carotene extracted from Daucas carrota (carrot) utilizing the obtained crude enzyme and commercially purchased enzyme. It was found that carotenoid concentration extracted by crude enzyme was appreciably equivalent to that of commercial enzyme.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

010320   Chandra Prabha A;Rama Subbu R;Kulloli S K (Plant Biology and Plant Biotechnology Dep, Ayya Nadar Janaki Ammal College, Sivakasi, Tamil Nadu, Email: racprabha@yahoo.com) : Micropropagation of Aristolochia indica L. (Aristolochiaceae). Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 409-11.

A micropropagation protocol has been standardized for an important medicinal plant Aristolochia indica L. using shoot tip and nodal explants. The synergetic effect of BAP at 1.0 mg/L induced more number of adventitious shoots from the nodal explants. In vitro shoots were excised from shoot clumps and transferred to rooting medium containing IAA and IBA. Maximum number of roots were induced in medium containing IBA (1.0 mg/L). Plantlets thus developed were successfully transferred to green house. The plantlets showed high survival rate (65%).

1 table, 9 ref

010319   Chandana Lakshmi M V V;Kusuma M P;Sridevi V (NO, , D. No. 45-53, 1/2 Abidnagar, Akkayyapalem, Visakhapatanm-530 016, Email: mpkusuma@rediffmail.com) : Phenol degradation by Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(4), 835-8.

Phenolic compounds are hazardous pollutants and they enter the environment through wastewater discharges from a variety of industries. As a consequence, it is necessary to reduce phenolic concentration of industrial effluents. Biological method of reducing phenolic content is more economical than that by physico-chemical methods. In the present study phenol biodegradation in a batch reactor using the pure culture of Pseudomonas putida and Pseudomonas fluorescens was attempted. The main objective of this work is to determine the kinetics of phenol biodegradation by measuring the biomass growth rate and phenol concentration as a function of time in a batch reactor. The kinetic constants, specific growth rate (μ_max), inhibition coefficient for phenol (k_i) and half saturation coefficient for phenol(k_s) were determined using Haldane equation. The length of the lag phase before the exponential growth phase increased linearly with the increase in the concentration of phenol. P. putida showed a greater value of specific growth rate than P. fluorescens. Therefore, selection of pure culture of P. putida could lead to higher efficiencies of phenol degradation than P. fluorescens.

3 illus, 10 ref

009157   Vyas M K;Dixit S P;Kumar S;Wickramaratne S H G;Jagdeep Kaur;Singh N P;Singh M K (NO, Central Institute of Research on Goats, Makhdoom, Farah, Mathura) : Single strand conformation polymorphism at growth hormone gene in Jamunapari breed of goat. Indian J Small Rumin 2008, 14(2), 205-10.

The genomic DNA was isolated from 140 blood samples of Jamunapari flock maintained at Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom. Three fragments of growth hormone gene (gGH) having both the intronic and exonic regions were amplified by PCR. The PCR-SSCP protocol was standardized to detect genetic variants at gGH in this breed of goat. SSCP analysis of fragment from 1011 to 1,344, 1401 to 1604 and from 1705 to 2093 bp of gGH gene revealed 7, 5 and 4 electrophoretic patterns, respectively. The preliminary results showed that SSCP analysis is a valuable tool for the establishment of allelic variants in the genes that express hormones associated with production traits.

3 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref