10
Mar
Two faculty members from the Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Dr. Afsana Bhuiyan Toma, Assistant Professor and Md. Anwar Hossain Adib, Lecturer have received separate research grants from the Ministry of Science and Technology Research
Synopsis of the research proposal:
Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial microbes in the rhizosphere that enhance plant growth through nutrient solubilization, nitrogen fixation, and pathogen suppression. Given Bangladesh's agricultural challenges, PGPR-based solutions offer a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, improving soil fertility, root development, and crop resilience.PGPR are classified into extracellular (ePGPR) and intracellular (iPGPR) types based on their interaction with plant roots. ePGPR, residing in the rhizosphere or root surface, aid in nutrient uptake, organic matter decomposition, and disease resistance. iPGPR, living within root cells, directly contribute to nitrogen fixation, immune system enhancement, and stress tolerance. Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), an essential leguminous crop in Bangladesh, has significant potential for PGPR-based improvements. Despite its adaptability and soil-enriching properties, suitable PGPR strains for cowpea remain unidentified. This study aims to isolate and characterize ePGPR and iPGPR from the cowpea rhizosphere, assessing their potential to enhance soil health, nutrient availability, reducing agrochemical use and mitigating environmental pollution, ultimately contributing to sustainable agriculture in Bangladesh.
Synopsis of the research proposal:
Street food and beverages are popular in Bangladesh, but they pose significant public health risks due to microbial contamination. Common street beverages, such as lassi, sugarcane juice, and lemonade, are often exposed to contamination through vendors’ hands, utensils, and water sources. The lack of proper sanitation, refrigeration, and waste management at vending locations further exacerbates the problem. Studies have detected various foodborne pathogens, including Salmonella spp., E. coli, and Staphylococcus aureus, in these foods, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
Salmonellosis, caused by Salmonella spp., is a major health concern, often linked to contaminated food and water. The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella strains further threatens public health by limiting treatment options and increasing mortality risks. In Bangladesh, foodborne illnesses affect approximately 30 million people annually, with many fatalities, particularly among children. The growing resistance to antibiotics highlights the urgent need for monitoring and managing these pathogens effectively. This study aims to isolate and evaluate Salmonella from different street foods and beverages in Dhaka city and assess their multidrug resistance. Given the alarming global shortage of effective antibiotics, this research will provide crucial insights into the safety of street foods and contribute to public health risk management strategies in Bangladesh.