Advanced Journal of Microbiology Research

Abstract: Genome science is a new type of biology that unites genetics, molecular biology, computational biology and bioinformatics. The availability of the human genome sequence, as well as the genome sequences of several other organisms relevant to health, agriculture and the environment in Africa necessitates the development and delivery of several types and levels of training that will enhance the use of genome data and the associated computational resources. A survey of initiatives that provide opportunities for trainin…

Abstract: Scientific inquiry thrives only in a society that fosters the free flow of ideas and information. The power of online (internet) publication in democratizing science and incorporating scientists from developing countries into the scientific community is profound. The desired and obvious properties of scientific publishing such as accessibility, economy, quality, innovation, and retrieval can be more readily achieved with electronic methods. Online publication is much cheaper and faster, and that is major reason Afr…

Abstract: The genomes of various organisms have now been fully sequenced, including human and representative microbial, insect, animal and plant genomes. The research challenge in the post-genome era is to establish how genes and proteins function to bring about changes in phenotype. Some of these phenotypes, and products obtainable through modern biotechnology, are of crucial importance within the context of sustainable development of African economies. The greatest ultimate impact will be in agricultural genomics, especial…

Abstract: Conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources is essential to meet the demand for future food security. Advances in biotechnology have generated new opportunities for genetic resources conservation and utilization. Techniques like in vitro culture and cryopreservation have made it easy to collect and conserve genetic resources, especially of species that are difficult to conserve as seeds. While technologies like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) have provided too…

Abstract: The mating system in plant populations is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Proper estimates of the outcrosing rates are often required for planning breeding programmes, conservation and management of tropical trees. However, although Moringa oleifera is adapted to a mixed mating system, the proportion of selfing has not been previously estimated. The current work therefore, shows the use of AFLP markers in a mating system study of M. oleifera seed orchard. Data revealed a mixed mating system with a…

Abstract: Hepatic alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase are major enzymes in the metabolism of exogenous ethanol. These enzymes are polymorphic and are involved in alcohol drinking and risk of alcoholism in some world populations. Three hundred and seventy one samples of hair root lyzates from five Kenyan communities were screened for ADH 2, ADH 3 and ALDH 2 polymorphisms via isoelectric focusing. Additional information on alcohol drinking behaviour, alcohol intake, frequency of alcohol drinking, preference of alc…

Abstract: The genetic modification of plants by gene technology is of immense potential benefits, but there may be possible risks. The advantages and social concerns of plant gene technology are discussed.[...]

Abstract: Cyanobacteria are one of the earth’s most ancient life forms. Evidence of their existence on earth, derived from fossil records, encompasses a period of some 3.5 billion years in the late Precambrian era. Cyanobacteria are the dominant phytoplanton group in eutrophic freshwater bodies worldwide. They have caused animal poisoning in many parts of the world and may present risks to human health through drinking and recreational activity. Cyanobacteria produce two main groups of toxin namely neurotoxins and peptide he…

Abstract: The effects of water deficit induced by polyethylene glycol-6000 on some cowpea varieties, which belong to the national germplasm in Senegal are reported. Our results showed that, the length of the epicotyl was not affected by water deficit but the length of primary root was influenced only in Mouride variety. Water deficit influenced mostly the number of lateral roots. The 985 variety showed a great increase of its lateral root numbers and could be considered a drought tolerant variety. In contrast, the IT81D-1137…

Abstract: Effects of different treatment methods on the germination of seeds of Parkia biglobosa (mimosaceae) were carried out. Prior treatment of seeds with sulphuric acid, wet heat and mechanical scarification were found to induce germination of the dormant seeds. These methods could be applied to raise seedlings of the plant for field propagation.[...]

Abstract: This study with some agro-byproducts was carried out to provide information on the use of fermentation by-products; brewer’s dried grains (BDG), rice bran (RB), palm kernel meal (PKM) and corn bran (CB). Changes in the nutrient compositions of some selected agro industrial by-products on biodegradation with Trichoderma viride and their feeding value as an energy source for layers were investigated. The protein in BDG, RB, PKM and CB increased by 87, 68, 32 and 61%, respectively, when they were fermented with the fu…

Abstract: Changes in the protein, sugar and cellulose of three agro-industrial by-products after fermentation with Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and Penicillium sp. in solid state were determined. Cellulose was significantly reduced (P[...]

Abstract: Spacer region between 16S and 23 S rRNA genes of thirteen lactic acid bacteria strains from Burkina Faso fermented milk samples were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus fermentum, Streptococcus thermophilus, Pediococcus spp, Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp mesenteroides were identified. The Lactobacillus group was the predominant bacteria. Plasmids identified ranged between 2000 and 4000 bp. Exopolysaccharides (EPS) production varied…

Abstract: The rDNA 18S region of Colletotrichum circinans and C. coccodes was amplified by PCR to evaluate this DNA region as a tool for species delineation. PCR amplification of the 18S of both species produced 1.65 Kb long fragments that covered most of the entire 18S rDNA molecule. DGGE analysis of the amplified fragments distinguished C. circinans from C. coccodes isolates. This result provides molecular evidence that supports the current treatment of C. circinans as a species distinct from C. coccodes, in spite of the f…

Abstract: Thioesterases play a central role in determining chain lengths of fatty acids in oil storage tissues and have been isolated from a number of plant sources. While in some species enzymes that are specialized for the predominant fatty acids in the tissues examined have been found, in others, enzymes that are active over a broad range were observed. We have isolated a cDNA clone from the developing kernel of the oil palm Elaeis guineensis which encodes a thioesterase enzyme. Its highest homology was to the Brassica na…