"Recent trends in life sciences", organized by Patna University (PU)

 

 

 

PATNA: "Your pet would never die, thanks to the development of biological science. When a particular pet becomes old, just get it cloned and you will have the same pet with you," said noted molecular biologist and former Hyderabad Central University vice-chancellor S E Hasnain. 

Inaugurating a national seminar on "Recent trends in life sciences", organized by Patna University (PU) botany department at geology auditorium here on Wednesday, he said the recent advancements in biological science are proving boon for the human beings as well as the society. PU vice-chancellor Shambhu Nath Singh presided.

Hasnain pointed out the pancreas of diabetic people could now be activated by injecting insulin through remote control. The treatment of prostate cancer has also become easier now. He, however, cautioned against the misuse of recent scientific findings as it could spell disaster. Hybrid flu virus, which is much more dangerous than the normal human virus, can now be produced in laboratories and the same can also be used for killing millions of people, he said.

While biological research must be allowed without any hindrance, we must reassure our society that benefits of our research far outweigh the inherent risks and we, as responsible global citizens, are fully committed to making this world a healthier place to live, he added.

Madhusudan Choudhary of Sam Houston State University, USA, delivered R P Roy memorial lecture on "Evolution of multipartite genome structure in prokaryotes".

Prominent among those who addressed the seminar included Neel Sarovar Bhavesh of International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi, PU pro-VC J P Singh, PU science faculty dean U K Sinha and botany department head S N Sharma.

At the outset, Birendra Prasad welcomed the guests and Chaudhary Sarfuddin proposed the vote of thanks.