Finding solution to human's challenges: intensify exploration of modern biotechnology techniques - Prof. Adetunji tells stakeholders

Kingsley Abavo, (Managing Editor)

Prof. Charles Oluwaseun Adetunji 

In search of solution to the sundry challenges confronting man, the need to intensify exploration of modern biotechnology techniques, as  replacement for traditional isolation techniques, applied in microbiology research; and industrial production processes, have been emphasized.

As technology like 'whole genome' and next-generation sequencing techniques, have been suggested.

'Whole genome' (In the fields of molecular biology and genetics, a genome is all the genetic information of an organism. It consists of nucleotide sequences of DNA - Wikipedia.)

 

(A genome is an organism's complete set of genetic instructions. Each genome contains all of the information needed to build that organism and allow it to grow and develop), another source said.

Prof. Charles Oluwaseun Adetunji of the Edo State University Uzairue, made the emphasis while delivering the Institution's 11th inaugural lecture series.

The lecture titled: 'Microbial Biosphere: The Global Impact And Under Explored Currency', was under the chairmanship of the University's Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor.

Prof. Adetunji also said there is need to identify some new human microbiomes that can be used to manage, suppress, and prevent pathogens or resolve other health related challenges.

"Microbial biotechnology would go a long way to provide safer alternative to synthetic drugs, biocides and antibiotics with benefit of benign to plants, animals and humans".

He further stated; that there is a need to acknowledge the possible economic benefits that may abound in various diversity of microorganisms, particularly those surviving in extreme conditions because they might be the answer to revolutionizing industrial biotechnology.

Prof. Adetunji who is of the department of Faculty of Sciences, also tasked the relevant stakeholders to pay more attention to lessons learned from the past, to prevent future conflicts between fuel and food; and be more adventurous beyond current stereotypic approach, to technology.

Continuing, he called for more attention on some key factors that could boost different countries' bioeconomy; such as sustainability, social skills, education, communication, entrepreneurship and knowledge transfer.

Prof Adetunji reiterated the need to place more emphasis on the role of interdisciplinary network programs; as one of the key drivers of a bioeconomy through the application of beneficial microorganisms.

This he pointed out could be achieved by involving research centers, policymakers, industries and societies in the eventual actualization of the United, to take or close proximity with microorganisms which eventually colonize the gastrointestinal tract of the host, in a way that they both undergo growth and evolution together.

"The most significant thing about the microphone-host interaction; is that it is a symbiotic favorable crosstalk because there is interdependency for survival and other vital functions".

He said the only way that could ensure sustainability in bioeconomy is to apply some principle, that must be strictly adhered to; which includes the use of renewable resource from agricultural waste such as feedstock for the production of product of high value, organic materials, and plant biomass.

Further, Prof. Adetunji stated it may be difficult to standardize the production process following some  challenges; that may be associated with the development of the microbial bioeconomy, to the genetic composition of the different microorganisms that varies significantly, from one specie to another.

He concluded, that in searching for ample solution to the diverse challenges facing humanity; "sustainable opportunities involving the application of microbes are becoming common phenomenal in the development of novel products; and solutions to food insecurity, environmental degradation, disease threat and the effects of climate change.

"Hence, there is a need for effective communication of novel innovations, to guide policy formulations."

Addressing the gathering earlier, the Vice Chancellor, Engr. Prof. Emmanuel Aluyor said the 11th lecture series of the University, marks another significant milestone in its remarkable journey of seven years of existence.

Prof. Aluyor was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (administration), Prof. Anthony Obioma Nwaopara.

The Vice Chancellor congratulated Prof. Adetunji for his outstanding achievements, noting that his elevation to the rank of professor; and global recognition for his scholarly work, was well deserved.

He noted that his confidence, and expertise have become an inspiration to young African academia.

Continuing, Prof. Aluyor disclosed: "recently the University hosted a team of Senior Medical Doctors from the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to accredit the University's residency programme for Medical Doctors, at the University Teaching Hospital."

As the first set of Medical Doctors of the University were earlier this year inducted, and in the process graduated her second set of Medical Doctors.

 Also, the University has graduated her second set of Law students and are presently at the Nigerian Law School, the Vice Chancellor asserted.

"One of the hallmarks of the Institution is the uninterrupted academic calendar that we have diligently maintained, the University has demonstrated resilience and unwavering commitment to providing quality education, without compromising on the academic progression of the students; both the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes."

The Vice Chancellor however, showered encomium on the management and staff for their unwavering dedication to duty, tireless efforts and commitment to excellence which he noted; have significantly contributed to the towering image, of the Institution.