ICGEB researchers have used a novel yeast strain isolated from the natural environment to increases ethanol production by 15.5% by fermenting glucose or rice/wheat straw (lignocellulose biomass). The strain is being metabolically engineered to be able to ferment pentose (C5) sugars — xylose and arabinose, which will further increase the yield of ethanol. India has … Continue reading ICGEB’s novel yeast strain increases ethanol production
ICGEB
Siddha drug nilavembu kudineer kills dengue virus, protects from chikungunya
ICGEB researchers have found that the Siddha medicine nilavembu kudineer provides protection against chikungunya virus and treats dengue infection. The nilavembu kudineer formulation was found t be safe for use in humans. Safety, efficacy and mode of action of the formulation will be studied using mice models. Under in vitro conditions, nilavembu kudineer (a Siddha medicine) … Continue reading Siddha drug nilavembu kudineer kills dengue virus, protects from chikungunya
Delhi researchers’ novel molecule prevents malaria disease
A team led by researchers from JNU and ICGEB, New Delhi has identified a molecule that prevents malaria parasites from invading red blood cells (RBCs) and causing the disease. It prevents the interaction between parasites and receptors found on RBCs thereby preventing the parasites from invading the RBCs. Since the molecule targets the receptors found on RBCs, it … Continue reading Delhi researchers’ novel molecule prevents malaria disease
ICGEB researchers identify distinct biomarkers for dengue, chikungunya
Researchers at Delhi’s International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) have identified specific metabolites that can potentially be used as biomarkers for distinguishing dengue and chikungunya infections and co-infection by these two viruses. The results were published in the journal Scientific Reports. Both the infections exhibit similar and overlapping symptoms in patients so making … Continue reading ICGEB researchers identify distinct biomarkers for dengue, chikungunya
ICGEB researchers adopt a novel approach to drug discovery
Researchers from the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Delhi have found a novel route to discover new drug targets and potential drugs for parasites that cause several diseases such as Loa loa nematode (roundworm) and Schistosoma mansoni platyhelminths (flatworm). The results were published in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases. Both these … Continue reading ICGEB researchers adopt a novel approach to drug discovery
A novel compound prevents, cures malaria
In a pathbreaking discovery, scientists from New Delhi’s International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and other institutions have isolated a compound that is able to completely clear malaria parasites with just a single, low-dose treatment. The compound acts on all three life stages of the malaria parasite, has prophylactic property … Continue reading A novel compound prevents, cures malaria
Will funding issues derail the Indian dengue vaccine trial?
At the peak of the dengue season, with New Delhi alone reporting over 7,600 cases and over 35 deaths, Dr. Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairperson of Biocon Limited, Bengaluru, on October 30, tweeted: “Govt is not committing to fund balance $4 m for dengue vaccine trials — disgraceful when there’s a national crisis.” India’s dengue vaccine candidate … Continue reading Will funding issues derail the Indian dengue vaccine trial?
Science Chronicle 