Research Scholar

Farah Deeba, PhD student at University of Punjab (Pakistan)
David W. Wood, faculty mentor

Background

• Hometown: Lahore, Pakistan
• Degrees received: Master of Philosophy in zoology, University of the Punjab, Pakistan

What is the issue or problem addresses in your research?

Pathogenic fungi (Alternaria alternata, Penicillium digitatum, Neurospora sp., Aspergillus fumigatus) cause severe damage to fruits and vegetables and are responsible for considerable annual low yields. This research seeks to test safer and environmentally more sound biological control measure to control these pathogenic fungi as compared to chemically harmful fungicides.

What methodology did you use in your research?

Research was conducted to develop a low cost and time effective bacterial chitinase production process. The best bacterial chitinase producers were screened, identified and the chitinases were partially purified (ammonium sulfate precipitation) and then purified by ionic exchange chromatography. The minimum effective inhibition concentration of each chitinase was estimated against four different fungi.

What are the purpose/rationale and implications of your research?

To provide an eco-friendly, cost effective natural biological approach for the control of fungi to prevent fruit and vegetable damage.