ISLAMABAD, Jun 5: In an effort to address the increasing prevalence of infectious diseases, COMSTECH, in collaboration with Karolinska Institutet, organized a one-day international seminar on “Infection Related Features of Microorganisms.” The event, held on Monday, aimed to foster collaborative research between academia and the health sector in combating infectious diseases, which pose a growing threat to global health.
Experts Highlight the Significance of Collaborative Research:
Distinguished speakers at the seminar emphasized the importance of collaborative research in understanding and addressing infectious diseases. Professor Dr. Ute Rumling, from the Department of Microbiology, Tumour and Cell Biology at Karolinska Institutet, highlighted that infectious diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. She pointed out that sub-clinical infections gradually impair functionality, making it crucial to investigate and combat these diseases effectively.
Dr. Rumling also highlighted the increasing susceptibility to infectious diseases, with up to 80% of human microbial infections caused by biofilm-forming bacteria. She emphasized that microbes within biofilms possess tolerance against antibiotics and immune responses, making them particularly challenging to treat. The emergence of new pathogens, influenced by changes in lifestyle, industrial processes, altered microbiomes, and immune statuses, further exacerbates the situation.
Academia’s Role in the Battle against Microbial Enemies:
Professor Dr. Shazia Anjum, Dean of the Faculty of Chemical and Biological Sciences at Islamia University Bahawalpur, stressed the significance of the field of study on infection-related features of microorganisms, recognizing microbes as formidable enemies of humanity. Dr. Anjum emphasized the need for collaboration and collective efforts to combat infectious diseases effectively. She commended COMSTECH’s initiatives in health capacity building and appreciated the seminar as a platform for learning, networking, and fostering collaboration among professionals in the field.
COMSTECH Aims to Address the Threat of Infectious Diseases:
The Coordinator General of COMSTECH, Professor Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, warmly welcomed the participants and expressed gratitude for their presence at the seminar. He emphasized that infectious diseases pose a significant threat to human well-being. Prof. Choudhary lamented the lack of attention given to this major cause of human mortality, stating that while substantial investments are made in areas like technology research, the development of antibiotics has been neglected.
Highlighting the pharmaceutical industry’s disinterest in antibiotic development, Prof. Choudhary emphasized the responsibility of academics to focus on infectious disease research to resolve this issue. He stressed the urgent need for collaborative efforts to combat infectious diseases effectively. The seminar was organized with the primary objective of comprehending infections at the molecular level, facilitating networking opportunities, and fostering collaboration among researchers.
Read More: Sixth main rocket engine trial for China’s crewed lunar missions sets record
Ambassadors and Diplomats Attend the Seminar:
The seminar witnessed the presence of esteemed guests, including the Ambassador of Yemen, as well as diplomats from Qatar and Uzbekistan. Additionally, a large number of national and international researchers participated in the seminar both in person and online. Ten lectures were delivered by renowned speakers, covering various aspects of infectious diseases. Each lecture was followed by an engaging question and answer session, promoting knowledge exchange and stimulating meaningful discussions.
With collaborative research at the forefront, the seminar served as a significant step toward combating the rising tide of infectious diseases. By fostering partnerships and knowledge-sharing among experts, COMSTECH continues to play a crucial role in addressing this global health challenge.
