• Rahman M. Identification, Molecular and Proteomic Characterisation of Brassica rapa Seed Storage Proteins with Allergenic and Antimicrobial Potential. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) thesis submitted to Southern Cross University. Submitted on 1st September 2020.

The thesis is major in molecular, proteomic, allergomic, nutritional and complementary medicinal aspect of rapeseed protein. The study included (i) optimisation of new protocols and novel methodologies for designing proteomic experiments, (ii) proteomic sample preparation including protein extraction, purification and modification using digestion and other bio-chemical processes, (iii) mass spectrometric data acquisition, (iv) data analysis and (v) generation of results-with my teammates and Bioinformaticians. Proteins were then modelled three-dimensionally using best-practice methods and pipelines. Functional characterization of yet uncharacterized proteins were performed. The major proteins were further analyses for their antimicrobial potential assay.  

Outcome: The thesis was recommended ‘A’, the highest recommendation awards from both the external thesis examiners. 

Three major seed storage proteins have been identified and characterized in rapeseed Brassica rapa, one for the first time. SIX journal articles on (a) method development and optimization for single seed protein extraction and analysis, (b) molecular and allergenic characterisation of napin, (c) literature review-1, (d) proteomic, in vitro and in silico exploration of antimicrobial potential of major rapeseed proteins (e) an 1D-SDS-PAGE-LC-MS/MS shotgun proteomic study, bioinformatic molecular characterization and allergenicity prediction and (f) literature review-2 have been published [More details].

Combining the proteomic data obtained from the above studies with other genomic and proteomic datasets developed in house at Southern Cross University, a new reference genome for Brassica rapa subsp. trilocularis R-o-18 chromosome-scale genome assembly has been deposited in the NCBI GenBank database (accession GCA_017639395.1, SCU_BraROA_2.3) and genome annotation is now available in EMBL-EBI Ensembl Plant Genome portal. 

• Rahman M. Chemical and biological screening of Ecbolium linneanum (Family- Acanthaceae) leaves and stems extracts. Masters of Pharmacy thesis submitted to Pharmacy Discipline, Khulna University.

Outcome: The thesis presentation was graded the highest mark for the substantial research work and presentation. One paper is under publication process from this work. 

• Rahman M. Chemical and Biological Investigations of Cnicus arvensis (Asteraceae)  Masters of Pharmacy project thesis submitted to Department of Pharmacy, The University of Asia Pacific.

Outcome: The study revealed a wide range of bioactive components with multiple bioactivity. One paper has been published from this work and another paper has been published from the extension of this work. 

• Rahman M. Phytochemical and pharmacological screening of Lannea coromandelica (Houtt.) Merr. (Anacardiaceae) extract. Bachelor of Pharmacy (Hons.) thesis submitted to Pharmacy Discipline, Khulna University

Outcome: The extract of Lannea coromandelica was found to have antimicrobial, analgesic, antidiahorreal and antioxidant activities. One paper has been published from this work.