Introduction In molecular biology and biochemistry, molecular blotting is a fundamental laboratory method used to detect and analyze biological macromolecules such as DNA, RNA, and proteins. The technique involves separating these molecules through electrophoresis and transferring them from a gel matrix onto a solid support membrane (commonly nitrocellulose or nylon). Once immobilized, they can be […]
Introduction The term mycorrhiza comes from the Greek words mykes (fungus) and rhiza (root), literally meaning “fungus root.” Mycorrhiza refers to the typically symbiotic association between a fungus and the roots of a plant. These fungi either live inside the root tissues or on the root surface, forming a unique biological partnership. In a healthy
Introduction Rhizobium is a remarkable bacterium known for its unique symbiotic relationship with the roots of leguminous plants. Found primarily in root nodules of plants like peas, beans, and lentils, Rhizobium plays a crucial role in biological nitrogen fixation. This process converts atmospheric nitrogen, which plants cannot directly use, into ammonia—a soluble form that plants
Introduction Bacillus subtilis is a Gram-positive, endospore-forming bacterium commonly found in soil, air, water, and decaying plant matter. This rod-shaped, motile microorganism is a facultative aerobe, meaning it can survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. Known for producing resistant endospores, B. subtilis can endure extreme heat, dehydration, and UV radiation. Thanks to its well-studied
Introduction The field of microbiology known as food microbiology focuses on techniques for preventing the growth of microorganisms, particularly foodborne pathogens and spoilage microbes, in food during handling, processing, and storage. Food microbiologists study the microbes that are essential to food production. This broad subject known as food microbiology includes the pathogens that cause foodborne
Introduction India is home to several prestigious institutions offering top-notch education and research opportunities in microbiology. From foundational molecular studies to cutting-edge biotechnology applications, these universities are nurturing the next generation of microbiologists. This article highlights the top 10 universities in India for Microbiology for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, based on academic excellence, research output,
Introduction The human immune system is a complex network of specialized cells, tissues, and organs designed to protect the body against infections, cancer, and foreign invaders. At the heart of this system are the immune cells—each with a unique function in detecting, responding to, and remembering pathogens. These vital defenders originate from a common source:
Introduction to Biochar Biochar: Thermally treated biomass that consists primarily of carbon. Biochar, commonly known as black carbon, is produced from organic materials high in carbon (C) and is frequently discovered in soils in extremely stable solid forms, such as deposits. Bio-chars can last for thousands of years in the soil at various depths. Charcoal,
Introduction to RNA Ribonucleic acid (RNA) is a fundamental biomolecule present in most living organisms and many viruses. It consists of a ribose sugar, phosphate backbone, and nitrogenous bases — adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and uracil (U) (in place of thymine in DNA). The majority of RNA is single-stranded, however there are particular
Introduction to Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when microorganisms—such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—evolve to survive exposure to drugs that once killed or inhibited them. It poses a major threat to global health, food security, and development. According to WHO, by 2050, AMR could cause 10 million deaths annually if not controlled.
