Life Sciences & Biotechnology
Title : | Investigate the mechanism of biofilm formation, quorum sensing molecules, and their gene expression in bacterial community during biodegradation of chlorolignin waste from pulp-paper industry |
Area of research : | Life Sciences & Biotechnology |
Principal Investigator : | Dr. Vineet Kumar, Central University Of Rajasthan |
Timeline Start Year : | 2022 |
Timeline End Year : | 2024 |
Contact info : | vineet.way18@gmail.com |
Details
Executive Summary : | The wastewater from pulp-paper industries is toxic and contains high levels of lignin, lignin residues, chlorolignin, endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), persistent organic pollutants (POPs), and various toxic heavy metals. Controlling these pollutants is difficult due to their diversity and high risk to the environment and human health. Understanding the mechanism of bioremediation and biodegradation of complex pollutants is crucial for sustainable development. Bioremediation of waste polluted sites is achieved through microbial communities coordinated by specific signal molecules called quorum sensing (QS) molecules. These molecules act as both a signal and nutrient for the growing microbial communities, providing a protected mode of growth for bacteria to survive in a stressful environment. As cell density increases, the signal produced by bacteria accumulates in the media, eliciting the expression of target genes. Identifying QS molecules and the pattern of biofilm formation is essential for understanding the biodegradation mechanism of recalcitrant pollutants in adverse environments. However, the detailed study of biofilm-forming bacterial communities, their structure, induction of ligninolytic enzymes, and detection of QS molecules to accomplish the bioremediation process of toxic pollutants at polluted sites is not yet known. The objectives of this project will focus on investigating the mechanism of biofilm formation, detection of QS molecules, bacterial community structure, and the nature of pollutants present at pulp and paper effluent contaminated sites. The project will also investigate the gene responsible for QS molecule synthesis in a contaminated environment. This research will not only establish new knowledge about environmental pollutants' biodegradation mechanisms but also help develop sustainable hazardous waste management technology. |
Organizations involved