Discovery of Medicinal Compound in Makhana by Bihar Agricultural University

IN NEWS: Discovery of Medicinal Compound in Makhana by Bihar Agricultural University

ANALYSIS

1. Breakthrough Identification of a Novel Bioactive Compound
   • Scientists at Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, have identified a unique compound, N-(2-iodophenyl) methane sulfonamide, naturally occurring in makhana (fox nut) for the first time.
   • The compound is a sulfonamide derivative of iodobenzene, known for its pharmacological potential.
   • This discovery adds significant scientific value to makhana, traditionally consumed as a nutritious snack.
2. Potential Health and Industry Impact
   • The compound's medicinal properties highlight makhana’s therapeutic value, positioning it as a bioactive and nutraceutical resource.
   • The finding can:
     • Increase global recognition of makhana
     • Boost market value
     • Attract interest from pharmaceutical industries
     • Expand makhana’s role in the nutraceutical sector
   • Researchers emphasize makhana’s antioxidant and therapeutic properties beyond its nutritional benefits.
3. Institutional Significance and Farmer Benefits
   • BAU’s leadership, including Vice-Chancellor D. R. Singh, notes that the discovery underscores the university’s commitment to:
     • Innovation in agricultural sciences
     • Promoting farmer welfare
     • Establishing Bihar as a center for modern agri-based research
   • The discovery is expected to encourage farmers to integrate traditional cultivation practices with scientific advancements.
4. Patent and Research Team
   • Dr. Anil Kumar Singh, Director of Research at BAU, has filed a patent for the discovery.
   • The research was conducted in BAU’s NABL-accredited laboratory.
   • Key team members include:
     • V. Shajeeda Banu (Plant Biotechnology)
     • Pritam Ganguly (Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry)
     • Anil Kumar (Horticulture)
     • Dr. Anil Kumar Singh (Director of Research)
5. Broader Implications
   • Reinforces the importance of exploring traditional foods for hidden medicinal compounds.
   • Positions makhana as more than a dietary snack—transforming it into a commercially valuable medicinal resource.
   • Could influence global snacking habits and open new avenues for agri-based innovation from Bihar.

NECESSARY STATIC PART (AS PER INPUT DATA)

• Product: Makhana (Fox Nut)
• New Compound Identified: N-(2-iodophenyl) methane sulfonamide
• Institution: Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour
• Key Officials & Researchers:
  • D. R. Singh (Vice-Chancellor)
  • Dr. Anil Kumar Singh (Director of Research; Patent filed)
  • V. Shajeeda Banu (Plant Biotechnology)
  • Pritam Ganguly (Soil Science & Agricultural Chemistry)
  • Anil Kumar (Horticulture)
• Laboratory: NABL-accredited facility of BAU
• Properties Highlighted: Antioxidant, therapeutic, medicinal, nutraceutical potential
• Context: Traditional nutritious food now recognized as a source of a naturally occurring pharmacological compound

Updated – 09 Dec 2024 ; 8:43 PM | News Source: Times of India