Open Day
Open Day IBMBB had its virtual open day on October 14, 2022, with the participation of more than 100 students and researchers. The event was conducted through the Zoom platform. led by Prof. Prasanna Galhena, Prof. Shiroma Handunnetti, Prof. Jagathpriya Weerasena, Prof. Sameera Samarakoon, and Prof. Sisira Pathirana, along with the esteemed panel of academics from IBMBB, were present to introduce the MSc programs and the short courses to the participants. Additional innovative and industrial talks were given by Dr. Geethani (Head of Laboratories, Lanka Hospital Diagnostics Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Tennakoon (Head of Research and Development, Link Natural Products Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Chamendra (Founder, FADNA Food and Nature Pvt. Ltd.), and Dr. Muditha (Head of Research, John Keells Holdings). The proceedings concluded with a success note, and the student feedback for the event was excellent.
Short-term internship for undergraduates in the field of Information Technology
IBMBB, University of Colombo now entertain applications from competent individuals for a short-term (6 months) internship to develop a comprehensive intranet and online service portal. We are looking for a self-motivated and skilled individual who is seeking an internship as per fulfillment of his/her course requirement. You will gain comprehensive hands-on experience in the full software development lifecycle while improving your communications skills as well as developing your skills in teamwork. Job Description Routine Tasks Updating and maintenance of IBMBB Website Maintenance of the current Internet Payment Gateway Specific Tasks Development of IBMBB intranet User Login System Carryout required updates to the existing staff login system and student Self-Service Portal. Role-based home page for accessing intranet resources Carry out required updates and changes to the existing system. Development of Student registration system for Masters and MPhil/PhD student enrolments The system will include student registration, payment tracking, and automated reminders. Online general administration system Online leave system and automated overtime calculations for staff HR System integrating job application management, employee management, and performance management 2. Implementation and development of Document Management System 3. Development of IBMBB Services portal for Sequencing, Diagnostic and other services 4. Online Conference management system Requirements and Qualifications Required Skills Knowledge in Programming (Preferable – HTML, PHP, Java) Knowledge in Web Server Administration (Preferable – Apache) Knowledge of Content Management Systems (Preferable – WordPress, Moodle) Knowledge in Databases (MySql) English Language proficiency Required Qualifications Perusing/Completed a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field Experience in the IT field is not a major requirement How to Apply Written application accompanied with a brief curriculum-vitae should be sent via email (vacancies@ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk) to reach Senior Assistant Registrar/IBMBB, University of Colombo.
Nexus Between academy and industry; Product launch
Innovative product development has been one of the major focuses of the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology, the University of Colombo catering to the emerging national needs in the field of functional foods and related products. Long collaborative commitment with FADNATea (Food & Nature (Pvt) Ltd) and the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology was a great success which led to the development of new products which were launched to the market on the 23rd of August 2022 at the College House, University of Colombo.This occasion was graced by Mr. Seenithamby Manoharan, Senior Rural Development Specialist, World Bank, Sri Lanka as the chief guest along with Senior Professor H. D. Karunaratne, Vice Chancellor, University of Colombo, Senior Professor Udith Jayasinghe, Vice Chancellor, the University of Wayamba as a special guest, Deans and Directors of the University of Colombo, Heads of Departments, Media representatives, Registrar and Bursar, University of Colombo, Research teams and Staff members of IBMBB. All products were commercialized under the brand name of QofL which defines the Quality of Life incorporating nature’s goodness with modern science to serve new trends for beauty and wellness. All QofL brand products are developed based on natural ingredients and scientifically proven modes of delivery to enhance the quality of the life. With the launch of the newest range of diversified products, QofL transforms this concept into an innovative solution that helps people to satisfy their ever-changing needs to live a healthier and happier life. Focusing on the three key aspects;wellness, performance enhancement, and beauty, the latest range comprises four products: SATINY, a total hair solution developed by the IBMBB; VERNOLAC a nutraceutical that enhances the quality of life for cancer patients, long-term research outcome by the IBMBB; BIO SHAPE a healthy weight management capsule improved by the IBMBB, and ORTHO-SHIELD a quick and long-lasting pain-relieving lotion specially designed for arteritis patients. The partnership with the University of Colombo strengthens the nexus between the industry and the academia, benefitting consumers in accessing value-added product rangesthat help in leading an active and happy lifestyle.Collaboration between the University of Colombo and FADNA Tea (Food and Nature (Pvt) Ltd) was supported by the University Business Linkage with the objective of transferring technologies derived from the University of Colombo into new products and services for the interest of the public. The University of Colombo being one of the leading universities in Sri Lanka has set up a platform for sustainable public-private partnerships as one of its key commitments toward the social and economic growth of the country. SATINY, with an inherent mesmerizing fragrance, developed based on the advanced aroma therapy accepted worldwide, inspireshair follicles in a biologically safer and healthier manner addressing many aspects related to the process of hair-growing. ORTHO-SHIELD, a well-refined conglomerate of natural ingredients with higher levels of pain-relieving potentials, enhances the absorption properties of active herbal ingredients stimulating and smoothening painful joints and muscles with faster and long-lasting relief effects. VERNOLAC, is a nontoxic herbal formulation developed as a nutraceutical that enhances the quality of life of cancer patients. This trailblazing nutraceutical capsule contains anti-cancer properties that help control and eliminate cancer stem cells. BIO-SHAPE also activates metabolic enzymes to enhance the fat-burning process enabling weight wellness in an effective, non-harmful, and 100% natural manner.Arresting the basics of natural metabolism and applying nature’s miraculous reactionary processes involving biologically active compounds that inhibit the excessive production of fat-forming enzymes and suppress fat formation through all-natural herbal ingredients identified and processed using advanced molecular engineering technology.
The Matriarch of IBMBB
The Matriarch of IBMBB Professor Kamani Hemamala Tennekoon is well-known to the scientific community of Sri Lanka for her dedicated contribution to various branches of science and especially to Molecular Life Sciences. Professor Tennekoon obtained her MBBS with a second-class upper division in 1979 from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. In 1981, she was recruited to the Department of Physiology as a Lecturer. In 1982, having secured a Commonwealth Scholarship she proceeded to the University of Sheffield, United Kingdom to peruse her PhD. Upon her return to the Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, after completing her post-graduate studies, she was promoted as a Senior Lecturer. She was promoted to the post of Associate Professor in Physiology in 1995, Professor in Physiology in 2002 on merit and Professor of Physiology in 2004. She served as the Director of the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) for two consecutive terms (from 2007-2012). From 2010 until her retirement, she served as the Senior Professor of Molecular Life Sciences at the IBMBB. Professor Tennekoon is an erudite scholar, a marvelous researcher and an academic of the highest caliber. She began her research career in the field of reproductive physiology and extended her research focus into molecular genetics of cancer, mitochondrial DNA and ancient DNA, population genetics, natural product development, and identification of biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma. She has supervised numerous Master and Doctoral students and authored nearly 80 publications published in international peer reviewed journals. Her excellence in research was duly recognized Prof. Tennekoon receiving the presidential research awards in the years 2001, 2005, 2010, 2012, 2015 and 2016, merit awards for scientific excellence in 2011, 2013 and 2014, SUSRED award in 2016 by the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka (NSF) and the Senate awards for research excellence in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019. She has also received several research grants from national and international funding agencies. Presidential Research Award 2015 Vice Chancellor Research Excellence Award 2018 She was the guardian of IBMBB during its difficult times and her immense contribution to uplift the IBMBB is invaluable. Since she was the successor of Professor Eric Karunanayake, founder director of IBMBB, she had the responsibility in leading the family of IBMBB at very early stages. Going forwards unscathed in various difficult situations while facing criticisms, her efforts to transform IBMBB as a “Centre of Excellence” in the field of Molecular Life Sciences is highly commendable. She pioneered in research and development by strengthening infrastructure and human resources, thus facilitating a conducive environment for research at IBMBB. She was the instrumental in building a research team with vibrant research fellows, currently performing extremely well in the fields of reproductive medicine, population genetics and natural product drug developments. She was an excellent teacher as well as a mentor who nurtured young scientist in the country. Her tireless work as an administrator, teacher and a mentor during her stay at the IBMBB was a blessing for a productive outcome. At the Opening Ceremony of IBMBB Delivering Welcome Address at the ICFMLS 2014 as the Conference Chair Although she pretends to be a tough character, it is well known that she is a soft heartened person who always try to help students, colleagues and especially those who seeks her assistance. She is one of the academics who had the privilege in serving University of Colombo for a period of 40 years that enabled her to gain a wealth of experience. This lifetime training is no doubt a blessing in disguise for her personnel achievements, perhaps the success story of the IBMBB, indirectly. Dear Madam, despite the mandatory retirement, IBMBB family never accept your retirement. Simply there is no substitute whatsoever and the IBMBB eagerly looks forward to your presence for many years to come. We wish that your inspiration, intellectual prowess and passion of teaching will be invaluable assets in the future as well just as it was during the past eighteen years.´´´
Trailblazer in Molecular Life Sciences – Felicitation Volume for Emeritus Professor Eric Karunanayake
Founder and Founder Director of the IBMBB, Vidya Jyothi Emeritus Professor Eric Karunanayake is truly a trailblazer in Molecular Life Sciences in Sri Lanka. Collection of essays from his postgraduate trainees and a few collaborators in this Felicitation Volume serves as evidence for his four decades of relentless dedication and leadership to advance science for the benefit of the Nation. We have made this publication available on-line for the benefit of scientists, researchers and the wider public and especially to inspire younger generations. Download PDF
President’s Awards for Scientific Research in 2021
President’s Awards for Scientific Publications in 2021 President’s Awards for Scientific Publications were given for the best 100 publications made in the year 2018 at an Online award ceremony held on the 6th of April 2021. Three researchers from IBMBB, Dr Narmada Fernando, Prof Shiroma Handunnetti and Prof Nimal Punyasiri and their collaborators received the President’s Award for the following two Scientific Publications made in the year 2018. Dr. Narmada Fernando and Prof. Shiroma Handunnetti had won the President’s Award for the above research publication along with Dr. Rajiva de Silva, Dr. Lilani Karunanayake, Dr. Nipun Lakshitha De Silva, Prof. Janaka de Silva, Prof. Senaka Rajapakse and Prof. Sunil Premawansa. Prof. Nimal Punyasiri of the IBMBB academic staff had won the President’s Award for the above research publication along with Dr. GVV Liyanaarachchi, Prof. KRR Mahanama and Dr. HPPS Somasiri.
Notice for Students
IBMBB premises remained closed from 2021-05-10 to 2021-05-23 since one staff member has been diagnosed as positive for Covid-19.
9th Biennial Scientific Sessions of the Allergy & Immunology Society of Sri Lanka (AISSL)
9th Biennial Scientific Sessions of the Allergy & Immunology Society of Sri Lanka (AISSL) The 9th Biennial Scientific Sessions of the Allergy & Immunology Society of Sri Lanka (AISSL) was held at the Conference Hall of the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo on the 26th March, 2021. The President-AISSL, Prof Shiroma Handunnetti welcomed the participants on site and on line as it was a hybrid event, and introduced the Chief Guest, Emeritus Professor Kamini Mendis. Following the President’s address by Prof Shiroma Handunnetti, sessions commenced with Free Paper Sessions. The first Professor Anura Weerasinghe Memorial Oration was delivered by Dr. Rajiva de Silva, Consultant Immunologist, Medical Research Institute & Past President-AISSL. There were six guest lectures delivered by Prof Ashley St. John, Prof. Thsashi Chang, Prof. Suranjith Seneviratne, Prof Gregory Bancroft, Dr. Dinakantha Kumararatne and Dr. Thushan de Silva. Free paper sessions were conducted under the topics Basic Immunology and Clinical Immunology. The 9th AISSL Scientific Sessions were concluded with the award ceremony for the Best presenters in Basic and Clinical Immunology and Best Poster Presentation.
Scientific validation of the potent anti-inflammatory and immunostimulatory activity of the concoction of Corriandrum sativum (Koththamalli) and Cosnium fenetratum (Venivelgeta), a traditional Sri Lankan home remedy
With the intension of value addition to Sri Lankan traditional medicine, a study on investigating immunomodulatory effects of a concoction comprising Coriandrum sativum (Koththamalli) and Coscinium fenestratum (Venivelgeta) was conducted by a team of academics of the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo. Koththamalli and Venivelgeta have long been used in Sri Lankan traditional medicine to treat cold, fever, runny nose, cough., etc. However, it has not been yet scientifically validated to confirm the immunomodulatory effect of Koththamalli and Venivelgeta. Therefore, this study for the first time scientifically validates the therapeutic claim of Sri Lankan traditional use of the Koththamalli and Venivelgeta. The present study have shown that Koththamalli and Venivelgeta have immunomodulatory effect while keeping the immune system in balance; stimulating it when there’s something to fight and down regulating it when it’s overactive. The concoction was made according to traditional Sri Lankan medicinal practice, by boiling 30 g each of Koththamalli seeds and Venivelgeta stem in 1920 ml of water in a copper vessel till it reached approximately 240 ml. The freeze-dried concoction was used to assess the immunomodulatory effects by using the human equivalent dose (HED) that is relevant for testing its effects in rats. It was calculated that human equivalent dose is equal to (HED-183 mg/kg). Anti-inflammatory activity of the concoction was assessed by investigating the production of nitric oxide (NO), expression of iNOS enzyme, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) by rat peritoneal cells. Immunostimulatory activity of the concoction was determined by assessing the specific haemagglutination antibodies raised against sheep red blood cells. It was observed that the concoction of Koththamalli and Venivelgeta has exhibited potent anti-inflammatory as well as immunostimulatory activities. Together these results scientifically validate the therapeutic use of the concoction of Koththamalli and Venivelgeta in Sri Lankan traditional medicinal system for immunomodulatory effects.
Research News: Virtual Screening of Inhibitors Against Spike Glycoprotein of 2019 Novel Corona Virus: a Drug Repurposing Approach
The novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a human and animal pathogen recently emerged in the city of Wuhan in Hubei province of China, causing a spectrum of severe respiratory illnesses.Corona viruses makes entry in to human cells through its spike protein that binds to cell surface receptors. Wide spread of 2019-nCoV has been attributed to relatively high affinity of S protein to its receptor. Although highly important, unavailability of a high-resolution crystal structure and solvent accessible binding surface has made it a tedious target for current rapid virtual screening research groups. A homology model of the receptor binding domain (RBD) of 2019 -n CoV spike protein that is reasonably acceptable for drug screening was prepared using a high resolution crystal structure of SARS corona virus (SARS CoV) spike protein. Data obtained from RBD- receptor docking experiments and from molecular dynamics experiments were used to map a RBD- Receptor interaction hotspot that can be used to design small molecule inhibitors. The hot spot was then used for virtual screening of more than 3300 drugs approved by FDA and other authorities for clinical use. A cardiac glycoside (dgitoxin), two anthracyclines (zorubicin and aclarubicin), a tetracycline derivative (rolitetracycline), a cephalosporin (cefoperazone) and a food dye (E-155) were predicted to be most potent inhibitors of RBD – receptor interaction. An anti-asthmatic drug (zafirlukast) and several other drugs (itrazol, fazadinium, troglitazone, gliquidone, Idarubicin, Oxacillin) were found to be high affinity binders that may have a potential to inhibit RBD – receptor interaction. Results of present study suggest the potential of Zorubicin and its analogsas prophylactic medications or use in preventive measures.