Team for Jagannath University Research and Higher Study Society (JnURHSS)

 

Comparative Analysis: CRISPR-Based Diagnostics vs. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)

Molecular diagnostics is undergoing a strategic transition from the established PCR "gold standard" toward CRISPR-based diagnostics (CRISPR-Dx). This shift toward precision pathology addresses critical barriers in clinical accessibility, moving high-fidelity testing to the front lines. While both modalities identify nucleic acids, their divergent operational requirements create a fundamental divide in deployment feasibility.

The following technical factors differentiate these two diagnostic modalities:

* Thermal Requirements: PCR necessitates complex thermal cyclers to manage rapid fluctuations (45°C–98°C). Conversely, CRISPR is isothermal—often integrating with amplification methods like RPA or LAMP to function at room temperature—which significantly reduces equipment costs and enhances portability.

* Specificity and SNP Resolution: CRISPR leverages the trans-cleavage (collateral) activity of Cas12 and Cas13 proteins for superior molecular precision. By utilizing crRNA programming and synthetic mismatches, it differentiates single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with higher fidelity than traditional PCR.

* Sensitivity Dynamics: PCR maintains a consistent detection limit of 1–10 copies. Although CRISPR targets femtomolar (fM) to attomolar (aM) sensitivity, current field iterations like TMC-CRISPR face trade-offs, showing approximately 44% sensitivity compared to RT-PCR in low viral load (high Ct) specimens.

* Workflow Complexity: PCR demands a controlled, unidirectional lab setup, highly skilled technicians, and multi-hour protocols. CRISPR platforms, such as SHERLOCK and DETECTR, enable simplified "one-pot" or pre-amplification-free protocols, delivering results in under one hour.

These differentiators dictate the global health landscape. CRISPR-Dx is the optimal solution for resource-limited, rural clinics where PCR infrastructure is logistically impossible. However, clinical consultants must weigh CRISPR's decentralized speed against the superior analytical sensitivity of laboratory-based PCR.

#CRISPR #crisprcas9 #PCR #biotechnology #ecogenezap 

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Microplastics in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh – Occurrence, Characteristics, and Risk Implications

Cox’s Bazar, renowned for its long sandy beach and vibrant tourism industry, faces increasing environmental challenges due to plastic pollution. Microplastics—tiny plastic particles less than 5 mm—have emerged as a significant pollutant affecting coastal sediments and groundwater. Recently Ahmed et al. 2026 reported on the prevalence and potential hazards of MPs in surface sediment and shallow groundwater samples collected from 12 sites in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, from August to October 2023. Using stereomicroscopy and FTIR, MPs were quantified, with concentrations ranging from 60 to 813.33 MPs/kg in surficial sediment and 3.34 to 36.66 MPs/L in shallow groundwater, with mean values of 294.38 ± 26.61 MPs/kg and 18.91 ± 4.75 MPs/L. This report explores the occurrence, characteristics, and potential risks associated with microplastics in this region, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable waste management practices.

Dr. Hossain (muzammel3@gmail.com) is seeking a fellowship, grant for microplastics research.  

Occurrence of Microplastics

In Coastal Sediments

High Plastic Waste Input: The region experiences substantial plastic waste from tourism, fishing activities, and local communities.

Sediment Contamination: Microplastics are prevalent in the seabed sediments, accumulating over time due to ocean currents and sedimentation processes.

Sources: Fragmentation of larger plastic debris, fishing gear, and mismanaged waste contribute to sediment contamination.

In Shallow Groundwater

Infiltration Pathways: Microplastics enter shallow groundwater through surface runoff, leachates, and wastewater discharge.

Detection: Recent studies indicate the presence of microplastics in groundwater sources used for drinking and domestic purposes, raising health concerns.

Characteristics of Microplastics

Size & Shape: Predominantly fibers and fragments, varying in size from visible particles to microscopic scales.

Polymer Types: Mainly polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS), reflecting local plastic consumption patterns.

Color & Composition: Microplastics exhibit diverse colors, often matching common plastic products like bottles, caps, and fishing gear.

Surface Traits: Many microplastics show biofouling—colonization by microorganisms—affecting their transport and environmental interactions.

Risk Implications

Environmental Risks

Disruption of benthic ecosystems due to ingestion by sediment-dwelling organisms.

Alteration of sediment chemistry and physical properties, impacting habitat quality.

Human Health Risks

Potential ingestion of microplastics through contaminated groundwater sources.

Microplastics may carry toxic chemicals and pathogens, posing health hazards when ingested.

Ecological Risks

Microplastics act as vectors for persistent organic pollutants (POPs), bioaccumulating in marine and terrestrial food webs.

Impact on fisheries and local livelihoods dependent on seafood.

Evidence from Cox’s Bazar

Recent environmental assessments reveal significant microplastic concentrations in coastal sediments.

Detection of microplastics in shallow groundwater sources suggests infiltration from land-based sources.

The findings underscore the need for comprehensive policies targeting waste reduction, plastic recycling, and water quality monitoring.

Conclusion

The presence of microplastics in Cox’s Bazar’s coastal sediments and groundwater poses serious environmental and health concerns. Addressing this issue requires integrated efforts involving community awareness, stricter waste management regulations, and scientific research to monitor and mitigate microplastic pollution.

Reference

Ahmed, M., Seddique, A.A., Manik, M., Jahid, SK.A., Hossain, M.M., Pastorino, P. (2026) Occurrence, Characteristics, and Risk Implications of Microplastics in Coastal Sediments and Shallow Groundwater: Evidence from Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh.  Microplastics 5(2),64. https://doi.org/10.3390/microplastics5020064. 

Run For The River

Theme: Run For The River

Date: May 23, 2026

Organised:  CBEES & BCFRC

Event Coordinator: Dr. Md Muzammel Hossain

Run through a "water" obstacle, such as a series of foam blocks or a shallow water pit, to simulate the river's role as a habitat for aquatic life.

Run along a "riverbank" or a designated path lined with trees or other vegetation to represent the river's ecosystem.

Run through a simulated "cityscape" or a busy area to highlight the importance of rivers for human needs, such as water supply and transportation.

Run through a "polluted" area, marked by obstacles or challenges such as "oil slicks" or "chemical spills," to raise awareness about the environmental impact of human activities on rivers.

Run uphill or on uneven terrain to replicate the river's course through mountains, canyons, and valleys.

Run up a small hill or incline to simulate the melting of glaciers, which is a primary source of many rivers.

Jog or walk along a winding path, symbolizing the meandering journey of a river from its source.

Inquire or contact : Dr. Md Muzammel Hossain (muzammel3@gmail.com ).

For details visit on WFMD