Celebrating Innovation and Collaboration and Highlights from the National Conference on Biotechnology 2024
The “National Conference on Biotechnology 2024 for Bridging the Gap Between Science, Innovation, Policy, and Society,” held on June 4-5, 2024, was a resounding success. Organized by the Central Department of Biotechnology (CDBT), in collaboration with Madan Bhandari University of Science and Technology (MBUST) and the Nepalese Society of Biotechnology, this event was a remarkable convergence of experts, researchers, and policymakers dedicated to advancing biotechnology.
Day 1 Highlights
- Dr. Krishna Das Manandhar on Research Initiatives at CDBT:
– Dengue Virus Serotyping via PCR: Innovative serotyping techniques for better dengue diagnosis.
– Leishmania Diagnosis by PCR: Enhanced diagnostic methods for Leishmania.
– VLP-based Dengue Vaccine Prototype: Development of a novel vaccine using HeLa cell culture.
– Biofuel Production Advances: Sustainable biofuel production methods.
– Phage Lab and Bacteriophage Bank: Establishment of a specialized lab for enzyme extraction.
-CRISPR Cas-9 Genome Editing: Research on blast disease-free rice seeds.
-JUJU DHAU Production: Exploration of traditional dairy product benefits.
-Future Research Directions: Bio-gro fertilizers and IVF in MURRA buffalo. - MBUST’s Vision by Dr. Sarbesh Das Dangol and Dr. Bhushan Shrestha:
– Focused on research and technology addressing sustainable development and climate change. - Biomedical Research Insights by Sameer Mani Dixit:
– Extensive research on diseases such as dengue, TB, leprosy, HIV, HPV, diabetes, kidney disease, and cancer.
– Opportunities due to disease prevalence, expertise, government interest, and infrastructure.
– Challenges include high taxes, youth migration, traditional policies, and a lack of innovative ideas. - Dr. Bhushan Shrestha’s Mushroom and Yarsagumba Research:
– Development of a Mushroom germplasm and Yarsagumba center for health and economic benefits. - PhD Scholars’ Oral Presentations:
– Eans Tara Tuladhar: HIV-1 genome study in a patient with unknown fever.
– Ramanuj Rauniyar: Cytokine roles in dengue. - Special Session by Dr. Chandra Kanta Bhandari:
– Addressed national IT and technology hub aspirations.
– Advocated for policy reforms, quality education, student encouragement, and anti-corruption measures. - Panel Discussion:
– Panelists: Dr. Pramod Poudel, Dr. Buddhi Ratna Khadge, Resham Babu Amagai, and Gyandra Ghimire.
– Topics: Research policy implementation, avoiding research duplication, GMO and biosafety standardization, patent rights development, and adherence to ministerial principles.
– NARC Contributions: Protocols in tissue culture, CAS technology in rice, and marker technology. - Research Paper Presentations:
– Somakant Baral: Medicinal plant extract efficacy on biofilm and MDR E. coli.
– Prasamsa Pant: Chitosan and essential oil-based transdermal patches.
Day 2 Highlights
- Opening Session:
– Chair: Prof. Dr. Rajani Malla.
– Keynote Speech: Prof. Dr. Janardan Lamichhane on molecular biology to medicinal plants research journey. - Oral Presentations:
– Ms. Lilee Shrestha: Non-JE acute encephalitis syndrome molecular characterization.
– Dr. Sizan Sainaju: Current status of veterinary vaccines production in Nepal.
– Archana Maharjan: Analysis of recombinant immunogenic dengue antigens. - Poster Presentation Session:
– 19 diverse research posters judged by Dr. Gaurishankar Manandhar, Dr. Pooja Manandhar, and Dr. Subash Chaudhary. - Afternoon Session:
– Chaired by Dr. Gaurishankar Manandhar.
– Oral Presentation by Mr. Dipendra Kumar Mandal: Cloning of the Holin gene for bacterial lysis in carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. - Main Panel Discussion:
– Topic: Promoting entrepreneurial culture in academia.
– Panelists: Prof. Dr. Govinda Tamang, Dr. Rabindra Sapkota, Dr. Pooja Manandhar.
– Moderator: Ms. Kopila Shrestha.
– Panelists shared their journeys and discussed fostering an entrepreneurial culture in academia.
Conclusion
The National Conference on Biotechnology 2024 successfully showcased groundbreaking research and facilitated critical discussions on advancing biotechnology. The event underscored the importance of bridging the gap between science, innovation, policy, and society, setting the stage for future collaborations and innovations. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their contributions to this successful event. Together, we continue to pave the way for a brighter future in biotechnology.
