National Institute for Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering

There are five research divisions at NIBGE namely, Agricultural Biotechnology, Health Biotechnology, Industrial Biotechnology, Environmental Biotechnology and Technical Services divisions. In agriculture research sector, the relationship of gemini viruses with cotton leaf curl disease has been understood at molecular level. Development of GM crops by genetic engineering is a routine. Insect and disease resistant cotton varieties have been released. Biofertilizer's with the trade name BioPower have been launched for various crops, use of those not only reduces the inputs of chemical fertilizers but also enhances the yield to significant levels. In the area of health, NIBGE is the first institute to develop PCR based tests for various diseases. Industrial progression has a direct link with country’s economy. Globally, biotechnology industry has been very instrumental in uplifting the overall socio-economic level of societies. Biotechnology linked industries have been carefully listed for research endeavours. We have developed strains and enzymes/endogene compounds for various industrial processes. Upgradation of fossil fuels is a multifaceted endeavour that may play its role in enhancing the economic feasiablity of various processes linked to the industries viz., chemical industry, cement industry, power generation industry etc. Gene mining of extreme habitats is also one of the research focuses of Industrial Biotechnology Division. During 2003, Tasman spirit oil spill at Karachi, 1.7 Km long beach area was cleaned using bioremediation technology developed at Environmental Biotechnology Division of NIBGE. Efforts are underway to establish a culture collection at NIBGE as a bioresource centre. Similarly, efforts have been put to design processes to combat environmental pollution/threats for various industries as well as for urban environment in general. To disseminate the fruits of our scientific endeavours to the end users, a commercial unit Pakistan Innovative Biotechnology Service has been established which mediates between different industries/ public sector organisations and NIBGE for the development of various processes and provision of commercial services.