Two Madras University PhD scholars win awards for their dissertations on biological applications of nanotechnology

PhD scholars Shalini Thomas and Elakkiya Krishnamoorthy from the National Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, University of Madras (UoM) won awards for their outstanding doctoral dissertations at an international conference held in Ropar, Punjab recently.

His theses were based on research aimed at obtaining different products by changing the composition and structure of calcium phosphate-based materials in biogenic hydroxyapatite, the component in bones and teeth that gives them their hardness. Dr. Shalini created a hemostatic sponge that can accelerate clotting and reduce clotting time to less than a minute. Dr. Elakkiya’s research focused on obtaining a bioactive glass that could be used to replace the worn enamel layer on teeth with several applications. Their products also have other bioapplications.

S. Balakumar, Head of Laboratory at UoM National Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, said: “Hemostatic sponge could have excellent use in accident situations, while bioactive glass could be a solution to dental problems experienced by many people due to tooth enamel loss.” With the research results, after examining the porosity and structural details, it will be possible to produce the scaffold or any suitable material required for medical intervention on bones and teeth within half a day. “These products are produced indigenously and can have a huge impact on regenerative engineering in the country,” he observed.

Following the success in the laboratory, Dr. Shalini is now working on creating an A4 size hemostatic sponge for real-time testing. Dr. Elakkiya’s different products can be used for different functions, such as reducing infection or promoting faster growth. Dr. Shalini’s research received support from the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister’s Research Fund, while Dr. Elakkiya’s work was supported by Anusandhan National Research Foundation, Department of Science and Technology.

The duo has now joined the Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, as part of the ANRF National Postdoctoral Fellowship. Dr. Elakkiya said, “I want to continue biomaterial-based research for a while longer.” After the two-year fellowship, he/she will choose to join a newly established company to gain exposure and experience in the industry. After graduating from government school in his hometown Panruti, he joined Chettinad Academy of Research and Education for postgraduate studies before moving to UoM for masters and PhD.

Dr. Shalini joined the same institution after her studies in Chennai. He said he always wanted to get into research when he came across related sciences and found the concepts interesting. His work at IIT Madras includes research on replacement of tissues in the spinal dura.