Biotechnology

Biography

Biography: Bina Pani Das

Abstract

Microbial insecticides are microscopic living organisms (viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa or nematodes) or the toxins produced by these organisms. During mosquito larval survey (1999), protozoan (Chilodonella uncinata), a facultative parasite was accidentally discovered killing mosquito larvae growing in paddy fields in Sonepat District, Haryana state of India. Subsequent follow up studies resulted in preparation of a semi-dry formulation (microbial control agent) wherein the parasite remains inactivated but gets reactivated within 24 hours when released in water. Ch. uncinata has many properties of a good biological control agent for mosquito vectors of human diseases including malaria and dengue viz., easily produced; robust; tolerant to desiccation; facility to recycle in environment; trans-ovarian transmission; induce blood feeding inhibition in infected adults mosquitoes and not harmful to larvivorous fish. National and international patents were filed during 2001-02 on “A Microbial Control Agent for Mosquito Vectors of Human Diseases”. So far, six countries have granted this patent including USA and Australia. Subsequently (2010-12), Ch. uncinata BP 610 strain updated at the Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi was deposited with the international depository authority-American type culture collection, USA. The formulation made out of Ch. uncinata BP 610 has a shelf life of >18 months. Using an already present, non-genetically modified organism that can survive unfavourable conditions to combat the mosquito menace is a very different and novel approach from the conventional methods. Another advantage of using such a formulation that has great utility as well as can be stored and transported relatively easily.