ILIGAN CITY (PIA) – Biology professors of Mountain View College in Valencia City, Bukidnon highlighted the significance of cytogenomic data for medicinal and endemic plants during the Visual Abstract Poster Competition of the 5th Regional Health Research Conference here on Nov. 17.
Dr. Nancy Morada presented her team’s study that showcases cytogenomic data for four Philippine medicinal plants as a model system of data collection for other plants.
Morada emphasized that researchers pursuing genomics research should incorporate cytogenomic analysis in their work plans to obtain information about genome size and chromosome number. She cited the importance of such data in choosing the appropriate sequencing approach and assembly validation.
According to Morada, the medicinal plants being studied could be potential sources for plant-based drugs. Hence, they seek funding support and collaboration to pursue their research.
“We are calling for collaboration and research funding to help us do this research. This cannot only be applicable to plants but maybe in the field of genetic engineering that could be potential, specifically in gene therapy and also in newborn screening,” she said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Eliazar Alumbro Peniton Jr., presented their study on the cytogenomic analysis of Panax Ginseng and Aralia elata species that are commonly found in China, South Korea and somewhere in Russia. He said that they would like to bring the techniques to the Philippines knowing that it is a habitat of diverse floral species.
“We have that opportunity to study our plants in order for us to develop them in a way that will be beneficial for our health and even for plant breedings. Similarly, to upgrade and develop our research as well,” he said.
Dr. Peniton studied at Sahmyook University in South Korea through a scholarship program. Together with Dr. Morada, they seek to forge collaborations with government agencies or other stakeholders that can help them in pursuing and implementing their studies. They can be reached through (email) [email protected] or (mobile number) +63-915-279-1506.
Dr. Peniton also conveyed appreciation to the Northern Mindanao Consortium for Health Research and Development for giving them the platform to showcase the findings and results of their studies. (LELAntonio/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
