Booth Id:
AS304
Category:
Cellular and Molecular Biology
Year:
2014
Finalist Names:
Verma, Abhishek
Dua, Daksh
Abstract:
Giardia intestinalis is one of the most common causes of protozoan diarrhoea worldwide, and leads to significant morbidity and mortality. The organism is ubiquitous and has been identified in the contaminated water supplies. World Health Organisation estimates around 200 million people are infected with this parasite.
In India, occurrence of this parasite is 114 per 1000 people. The purpose of the project is to promote the use of Rubusellipticus, naturally occurring wild herb as an effective, economic, safe and sustainable remedy against Giardia intestinalis. This parasite colonizes and reproduces in the small intestine leading to diarrhoea. Drugs in use not only have various side effects but also have become ineffective due to resistance developed by Giardia against them. This has prompted the investigation of a natural product, Rubusellipticus to validate the giardicidal property attributed empirically.
Experiments demonstrate that root extract of this herb can be effectively used as a natural remedy against giardiasis.
Awards Won:
Intel Foundation Cultural and Scientific Visit to China Award