Welcome to Vimal Research Society for Agro-Biotech & Cosmic Powers
A DSIR-SIRO (Gov. of India) recognized Research Institute
Plant Tissue Culture
- Leveraging our cutting-edge tissue culture facility, we develop and standardize efficient in vitro protocols for endemic, endangered, and economically important plant species—ranging from Basil, Jamun and Mentha and other regional medicinal plants. These protocols include embryo rescue, somatic embryogenesis, callus culture for secondary metabolite production, and hands-on training programs to build local expertise.
Biodiversity and metabolic profiling of Marine Algae
- Our research focuses on the biodiversity and bioactive potential of marine seaweeds along the Gujarat coast, India. A five-year study documented 225 seaweed species, including 28 new records, highlighting their ecological significance. Screening extracts for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal activities. The study also explores anticancer properties of seaweed-derived compounds targeting the PI3K/AKTs/mTOR signaling pathway.
Authentication and Metabolomics of Medicinal Plants
- The research focuses on molecular, phytochemical, authentication characterization of medicinal plants from semi-arid regions of Gujarat. We have study Chloroplast genome sequencing of key species like Commiphora wightii, Tinospora cordifolia, and Balanites aegyptiaca and other species to understand their evolutionary relationships for better identification and authentication. Metabolite profiling and phytochemical screening of over 250 medicinal plants were conducted to identify bioactive compounds and assess their antioxidant and phenolic content for potential use in herbal drug development.
Development of Non-Invasive Diagnostic Techniques
- Non-invasive techniques like Gas Discharge Visualization (GDV) and biophoton emission that are emerging as powerful tools for early detection of disease, quality assessment, and adulteration testing in plants and herbal medicines. GDV captures the plant’s electromagnetic response, reflecting its physiological state, while biophoton emission detects ultra-weak light signals associated with metabolic activity and stress. These methods are rapid, non-destructive, and require minimal sample preparation. By standardizing emission patterns and threshold values, reliable diagnostic tools can be developed for monitoring plant health, ensuring the quality of herbal formulations, and detecting early signs of disease. This approach supports safer, more effective crop production and product management.
Molecular Biology & Bioinformatics
- Our team has carried out extensive molecular biology research in the unique ecosystem of the Kutch desert, becoming the first in South Asia to sequence complete chloroplast genomes of Poaceae grasses to study their adaptive mechanisms. To date, we have generated more than 30 chloroplast and mitochondrial plant genomes, many of which represent the first genome records globally. Beyond plants, we also explore pathogenic bacterial, fungal, and marine algal genomes.
- We have developed novel DNA barcodes and molecular markers to distinguish morphologically similar and taxonomically difficult plant species where traditional methods fail. Our research extends into Genomics, Transcriptomics, Proteomics, Metabolomics, and other omics approaches, integrating these layers to achieve deeper insights into plant biology and evolution.
- • Genome Assembly, Annotation, RNA-Seq analysis, variant calling
- • Phylogeny, phylogenomics, and time-tree construction
- • Plant barcoding and marker analysis (SSR, ISSR, SNPs, RAPD)
- • Gene expression studies, RNA editing site analysis
- • Primer design, molecular kit development
- • Protein docking, evolutionary/adaptive pathway analysis
- • Sanger sequencing interpretation and next-generation sequencing (NGS) data analysis
- • NCBI GenBank and WGS submissions, large dataset mining
- • Standardization and development of novel DNA/RNA protocols
- By integrating diverse omics datasets with advanced computational tools, our ultimate aim is to unlock deeper insights into plant biology that can be translated for the betterment of agriculture, environment, and human health.
In bioinformatics, we specialize in:
Plant Disease Biology, Diagnosis & Sustainable Management
- Our research explores the genomics, systematics, and evolutionary biology of plant pathogenic fungi and bacteria, along with their complex interactions with host plants. By combining molecular tools, omics approaches, and ecological insights, we aim to develop sustainable, eco-friendly strategies for managing crop diseases.
- We are also working on non-invasive diagnostics (biophoton/GDV, molecular barcoding) to enable early detection and rapid monitoring of plant health, supporting farmers with practical tools.
- Additionally, we investigate the use of plant-derived essential oils with natural antifungal and antibacterial properties as safe alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals. These oils are being screened for their efficacy against major crop pathogens, with applications ranging from:
- • Seed treatment to reduce infection at germination,
- • Foliar sprays for managing fungal leaf diseases,
- • Post-harvest treatments to extend shelf life of fruits and vegetables, and
- • Soil/greenhouse applications to suppress soil-borne pathogens.
- This integrated approach strengthens disease resistance in crops, reduces chemical pesticide reliance, and promotes eco-friendly crop protection systems.