- Titus Susan Merlin, Md Umar, Sajeevan Thavarool Puthiyedathu. 2021. Genomic insights into symbiosis and host adaptation of an ascidian‑associated bacterium Bacillus aryabhattai MCCB 387. Symbiosis https://doi.org/10.1007/s13199-022-00860-1 view
- Sivakumar, K.C., Thavarool Puthiyedathu, S., 2021. Challenges and prospects of Viral Envelope protein VP28‐based control strategies to combat white spot syndrome virus in penaeid shrimps: a review. Rev. Aquac. 13, 734–743. https://doi.org/10.1111/raq.12497 view
- Sivakumar, K.C., Haixiao, J., Naman, C.B., Sajeevan, T.P., 2020. Prospects of multitarget drug designing strategies by linking molecular docking and molecular dynamics to explore the protein–ligand recognition process. Drug Dev. Res. 81, 685–699. https://doi.org/10.1002/ddr.21673 view
Being an interdisciplinary field, Computational biology and bioinformatics develops and applies computational methods to analyse large amount of biological data, such as genetic sequences, cell populations or protein samples, to make novel predictions or discoveries in biology. The computational methods used include analytical methods, mathematical modelling and simulation.
The feasibility in systematic data collection by genomics and proteomics technologies has greatly widened the gap between the available data and their biological interpretation. Direct individual testing won’t be able to close this gap given the volume of data collection. Thus the crucial means of bridging this gap is provided by computational and theoretical approaches to understanding biological systems. These tasks include computer modelling of biological processes, computational administration of large-scale projects, database building and data mining, algorithm development and high-performance computing, as well as statistical and mathematical analysis.
The bioinformatics and computational biology team of our centre aim to discover and disclose genetic interactions in organisms, molecular simulations for novel drug discovery, application of molecular systematics toward conservation of marine resources and in silico approaches for revealing the complex biological reactions.
Opening of Bioinformatics Facility by Prof. K. Poulose Jacob, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Cochin University of Science and Technology in the presence ofProf. I.S. Bright Singh, Project Director (India)and Prof. William H. Gerwick, Centre for Marine Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, UCSD, USA (Project Director, USA)
Recent Updates
- Molecular identification and characterization of endophytic and associated of nitrogen fixing bacteria associated with red macroalga Kappaphycus alvarezzii using 16S rRNA and nifH gene sequencing and could identify 21 potential bacterial isolates.
- Genomic insights into symbiosis and host adaptation of an ascidian-associated bacterium Bacillus aryabhattai MCCB 387 was studied and a paper was published.
- ‘Systems and Computational Biology’was taught as a course as a part of M.Tech. Marine Biotechnology programme to14 students (2021-2022) sponsored by DBT. Strong foundation in Bioinformatics, Systems and Computational biology was laid through problem oriented approaches for skill development, in order to facilitate finding answers to questions in marine biotechnology.
- Training on bioinformatics and computational biology (2021-2022) was provided to 227 candidates at various levels such as 44 at Graduate level, 144 at Postgraduate and PhD levels, 25 at Postdoctoral and Faculty levels and 14 at Higher Secondary School level.
- Under the synthetic biology component, a CVJ Centre for Metabolic Engineering and Synthetic Biology (CMESB) sponsored by M/s Synthite Group of Industries, Kerala is getting established at the University, which will be working closely with DBT-Bioinformatics Centre.
Research Projects
- “Establishment of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology Centre for Marine Bio-resource Conservation and Sustainable Utilization” funded by Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India
- Indo-US initiatives on innovative reforms in marine biotechnology education and research and development of sustainable aquaculture production systems for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development” funded by University Grants Commission, Govt. of India (under the Indo-US 21st Century Knowledge Initiative)
Research Publications
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- Sivakumar K.C. (2021) Structure based in silico screening for antiviral lead compounds from marine sources against White Spot Syndrome Virus: A multi-target drug discovery approach view view
Thrust Areas
- Determination of the extent of perturbation of a typical marine ecosystem by human activity and generation of early warning signs in the form of accurate NGS genomic data.
- Targeted drug discovery from marine biological systems focusing on applications such as virtual screening prediction (using appropriate classification algorithm) and drug efficacy and ADMET prediction (using appropriate regression algorithms)
- Building up synthetic biology platform for biosynthesis of various molecules such as pyocyanin and human resource development in associated areas.
- Application of NGS in aquatic animal model in assessing xenobiotics deleterious to environmental health under “one health concept”
Collaborating Institutes
Department of Biotechnology, Goa University.Funding Agencies
Department of Biotechnology, Govt of IndiaOur Team
Prof. Valsamma Joseph
Dr. Silpa Bhaskaran
Dr. Prem Kumar, a Senior Scientist in the Finfish Culture Division at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE), is recognized for his contributions to finfish aquaculture and sustainable fish farming practices. His research focuses on advancing breeding, seed production, and grow-out techniques for economically important finfish species, essential for enhancing fish farming efficiency and profitability. Dr. Kumar has been instrumental in developing improved methods for breeding and rearing native fish species, supporting biodiversity conservation while boosting aquaculture productivity in India.
Dr. David Verner-Jeffreys is a Senior Scientist at WorldFish and an esteemed expert in aquatic animal health and aquaculture biosecurity. With a background in fish pathology and disease management, Dr. Verner-Jeffreys has dedicated his career to developing solutions that enhance disease prevention and sustainable health practices in aquaculture systems globally. His research focuses on combating infectious diseases that impact fish farming, particularly in developing countries, where aquaculture plays a crucial role in food security and livelihoods.
Dr. M. Shashi Shekhar, is a distinguished expert in aquatic animal health and environmental management in brackishwater aquaculture. With extensive experience in fish and shrimp health management, his work addresses critical challenges in disease prevention, environmental sustainability, and biosecurity, contributing to the growth and resilience of India’s brackishwater aquaculture sector. By emphasizing biosecurity, environmental monitoring, and eco-friendly health management practices, Dr. Shekhar has contributed to enhancing the resilience and sustainability of shrimp and fish farming.
Dr. K.V. Rajendran is a prominent aquaculture scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education (ICAR-CIFE) in India, recognized for his expertise in fish health management and aquatic animal disease control. With a focus on advancing disease diagnostics, biosecurity, and sustainable health practices in aquaculture, Dr. Rajendran’s work has greatly contributed to improving the resilience and productivity of India’s aquaculture sector. His research addresses major challenges related to fish and shellfish health, particularly in diagnosing and managing viral, bacterial, and parasitic diseases that impact farmed species.
Dr. T. Raja Swaminathan is a renowned scientist at the ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT) in Kochi, India, with expertise in fish health management, aquaculture biosecurity, and disease diagnostics. His work focuses on addressing challenges related to aquatic animal health, particularly in ensuring sustainable and safe practices in India’s aquaculture industry. Dr. Swaminathan is recognized for his contributions to the detection and control of fish and shellfish diseases, which are critical for enhancing productivity and reducing economic losses in aquaculture.
Dr. Neeraj Sood, a distinguished scientist at the ICAR-National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBFGR) in India, is recognized for his work in fish genetics, conservation, and sustainable aquaculture practices. His research focuses on the genetic characterization and conservation of fish biodiversity, which is critical for protecting valuable genetic resources and promoting sustainable aquaculture. By identifying and cataloging fish species and their genetic diversity, Dr. Sood has contributed to the preservation of native fish species, ensuring that these resources can support resilient and productive aquaculture systems in India.
Dr. B. Santhosh, a leading scientist at the Vizhinjam Regional Centre of the ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CMFRI), is known for his impactful contributions to marine aquaculture and coastal fisheries development in India. His work focuses on advancing sustainable practices in mariculture, particularly in seed production, hatchery technology, and the cultivation of high-value marine species like finfish, shellfish, and sea cucumbers. Dr. Santhosh’s research has played a critical role in supporting livelihood opportunities for coastal communities by promoting aquaculture as a viable and environmentally sustainable industry.
Dr. Victoria Alday-Sanz is a renowned aquaculture expert at National Aquaculture Group (NAQUA) in Saudi Arabia, recognized globally for her work in shrimp health management, biosecurity, and sustainable aquaculture practices. With a background in veterinary science and extensive experience in aquatic animal health, Dr. Alday-Sanz has played a critical role in advancing shrimp farming practices to enhance productivity while maintaining rigorous biosecurity standards. Her work is instrumental in addressing major health challenges in shrimp aquaculture, particularly in the prevention and management of viral and bacterial diseases that can impact large-scale operations.
J.M.P.K. Jayasinghe is a distinguished figure in aquaculture, known for his contributions to sustainable fish farming practices, particularly in Asia. With a focus on innovative aquaculture technologies and resource management, he has dedicated his career to improving the productivity, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of aquaculture systems. Jayasinghe has been involved in developing best practices that help small-scale and commercial farmers enhance yields while minimizing the environmental impact, which is crucial for both economic growth and ecological health.
Dr. Vasant Kripa is the former Secretary of the Coastal Aquaculture Authority (CAA) in Chennai, India, and a highly respected scientist in marine biology, coastal aquaculture, and environmental management. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Kripa has been instrumental in developing policies and practices that promote sustainable and responsible coastal aquaculture in India. Her work has focused on balancing the growth of aquaculture with environmental conservation, ensuring that coastal ecosystems remain resilient and productive.
Dr. K.M. Shankar is the Vice Chairman of the Asian Fisheries Society, Indian Branch, and former Dean of the College of Fisheries in Mangalore, India. A highly respected figure in fish health management and aquaculture, Dr. Shankar has contributed significantly to advancing aquaculture science, particularly in aquatic animal health, biotechnology, and sustainable fisheries. His research focuses on pathogen detection, disease management, and biosecurity in aquaculture, addressing key challenges to improve productivity and sustainability in the industry.
Prof. Arun K. Dhar is a Professor and Director of the Aquaculture Pathology Laboratory at the School of Animal & Comparative Biomedical Sciences, The University of Arizona, USA. An expert in aquaculture pathology and virology, Prof. Dhar is highly regarded for his research on diseases affecting shrimp and other aquatic species. His work focuses on identifying, understanding, and managing viral pathogens that pose significant threats to aquaculture industries globally.
Dr. Iddya Karunasagar is a distinguished Indian microbiologist and food safety expert, known for his pioneering work in aquatic microbiology, aquaculture health, and public health. His research focuses on seafood safety and disease management in aquaculture, with significant contributions to understanding and controlling microbial pathogens, such as Vibrio species, which affect marine organisms. His work has helped develop diagnostic tools and strategies that promote sustainability in aquaculture and ensure safer seafood.
Dr. Pramoda Kumar Sahoo is the Director-cum-ICAR National Professor at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA). A leading expert in fish health management and aquatic animal diseases, Dr. Sahoo’s work focuses on advancing disease control, immunology, and molecular biology in freshwater aquaculture. His research is pivotal in improving the health, resilience, and sustainability of India’s aquaculture industry, which plays a vital role in food security and rural livelihoods.
Dr. Rohana Subasinghe is the Managing Director of FutureFish, a consultancy specializing in sustainable aquaculture and fisheries development. With over 30 years of experience in aquaculture, aquatic animal health, and international fisheries, Dr. Subasinghe is a globally recognized expert dedicated to promoting sustainable practices that support food security, environmental protection, and socioeconomic growth.
Dr. Eduardo Leano is the Director General of the Network of Aquaculture Centres in Asia-Pacific (NACA), an intergovernmental organization focused on sustainable aquaculture development in the Asia-Pacific region. With a strong background in aquatic animal health and pathology, Dr. Leano has dedicated his career to advancing sustainable aquaculture practices, improving disease management, and promoting biosecurity within the industry.