Biofilm biology & Bioremediation:
Marine bacterial biofilms are much proficient agents as they are highly adaptable to variable environmental conditions and efficiently remediate organic and inorganic pollutant. We are interested to reveal the biofilm biology, genetic regulation of biofilm formation and bioremediation.
Our laboratory recently established the relationship between quorum sensing (QS) genes, biofilm formation and PAH degradation. A biofilm-forming marine bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa N6P6 was isolated and found that phenanthrene and pyrene degradation was greatly affected by biofilm growth and quorum sensing genes (lasI and rhlI) expression. Similarly, mercury volatilization mediated by bacterial biofilm was elucidated in mercury resistant biofilm forming marine bacterium B. thuringiensis PW-05. Furthermore, high expression of merA gene, responsible for Hg2+ volatilization, in marine Bacillus sp. biofilm confirmed the superiority of bacterial biofilm in metal bioremediation. Marine bacterial biofilm-EPS was utilized as a capping agent in the synthesis of CdS (cadmium sulphide) nanoparticles which ultimately enhanced the cadmium bioremediation through biosorption.
Nano-remediation:
The concept of nanotechnology based bioremediation aids much more effectiveness and sustainability in remediation of toxic pollutants. The biosynthesis of nanoparticles from microorganisms (fungus) has profound influence on the size, stability and adsorption capacity of nanoparticles. Iron nanoparticles such as nano zerovalent iron (nZVI), maghemite (Fe2O3), and magnetite (Fe3O4) efficiently remove heavy metals from ground water by using magnetic solid phase extraction process. Our laboratory aims on synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles from manglicolous fungi and their application on sequestration heavy metals from contaminated water.
PGPR-biofilm for plant growth promotion and ecosystem services:
Our lab is committed to explore the PGPR-biofilm interactions for enhancing plant growth and fostering ecosystem services, particularly within the mangrove ecosystem. Equipped with state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities, we aim to delve into the intricate relationships between PGPR-biofilm and understanding their role in improving plant health. Our research seeks to unlock the potential of these microorganisms in promoting plant growth and, enhancing soil fertility, in presence of various environmental stressors. By focusing on mangroves and other plant species, we hope to contribute to the restoration and conservation efforts of these vital ecosystems, which play a crucial role in coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration. Our future work aims to pave the way for developing innovative biotechnological solutions aimed at reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers and fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Host-pathogen interaction in the aquatic animals:
The research focus of our laboratory is to speculate the molecular interaction between different potent fish pathogens and host aquatic animals, for facilitating better therapeutic intervention in aquaculture industry. In that context, we are interested to investigate into the existence of novel Immunoglobulins like IgZ/IgT in Indian major carp (IMCs), tissue-specific expression profile of different Immunoglobulin isotypes during pathogenic assault and mechanism leading to its diversification, which is not yet reported.
We have partially cloned IgZ heavy chain isotype in IMC, Catla catla, sequenced and demonstrated its transcript expression pattern on pathogenic induction and currently focusing on the full length cloning and protein expression of novel Ig isotype. We are working to find out how the B cell subsets are modulated by these innate immune molecules and its downstream signaling cascade involving TNF superfamily molecules in inducing quicker immunoglobulin synthesis.
Mapping the biodiversity and ecological studies of the reclaimed sites:
The research is focused on the estimation of biodiversity including bacterial and fungal diversity of the ecologically restored and reclaimed sites. This includes the ecological studies, estimation of the current status and recommendation for the rehabilitation of the sites as per standard guidelines.