International Conference on Sustainable Biotechnology [ICoSBi] 2025

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    PublicationOpen Access
    Identification of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Processed Meat Products Available in Local Markets from Five Selected Localities in Sri Lanka
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Jayakody, U; Vithanage, D
    This study focused on identifying antibiotic-resistant bacteria in processed meat products available in Sri Lankan local markets, considering the potential risks caused by inappropriate packaging and storage conditions. Five processed meat samples were purchased from five localities in Sri Lanka and examined on Luria-Bertani (LB) agar medium using both homogenised and direct culture techniques. The Kirby-Bauerdisc diffusion method was used in the Antibiotic Sensitivity Test (ABST) to determine how bacteria responded to various antibiotics. Samples that were improperly packaged revealed the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains, exhibiting resistance to both ampicillin and amoxicillin, while ciprofloxacin sensitivity was observed in every tested bacterium. DNA was extracted from the antibioticresistant bacteria. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus sp. were confirmed using Polymerase Chain Reaction(PCR) and agarose gel electrophoresis. Although PCR identified many isolates, it was unable to confirm two bacterial species; after additional DNA sequencing analysis, these two unidentified organisms were determined as Enterobacter sp. and Psychrobacter piechaudii. These results demonstrate the significance of appropriate packaging in avoiding the foodborne transmission of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.The study additionally indicates that to improve food safety and decrease antibiotic overuse, public awareness and stronger regulations are required. This study improves the understanding of how antibiotic resistance can spread through regularly consumed food products, which helps protect public health.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Unveiling Genetic Diversity of Sri Lankan Avocados using SSR Markers and Morphological Traits
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Wijesundara, V. G.; Divyanjalee, S. D.; Perera, U. I. P.; Niran, H. M. L.; Somaratne, L. H. M. Y. K.
    Avocado (Persea americana Mill.), a member of the family Lauraceae, is widely recognised as a healthpromoting fruit due to its high content of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which help lower LDL cholesterol levels. Although avocados were introduced to Sri Lanka nearly 200 years ago, the local avocado accessions remain largely uncharacterised. The present study was conducted to characterise 15 avocadoaccessions maintained in the ex-situ germplasm collection at the Fruit Research and Development Institute, Horana, using both molecular and morphological markers. Molecular characterisation was performed using four avocado-specific Short Sequence Repeat (SSR) markers.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Phenanthrene and Naphthalene Biodegradation by Soil Fungi in Agricultural Fields using Mycoremediation Techniques
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Dayawansha, I. P. S. S. M.; Dharmasiri, R. B. N.; Warnakula, S. T.; Prince, F. T.; Akber, F. A. A.; Rathnayaka, R. M. G. B. A.; Madanayaka, K. H.
    Mycoremediation is a sustainable and environmentally friendly biotechnological approach used to remediate the environment by eliminating organic contaminants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), pesticides, and heavy metals. This strategy promotes soil health while improving crop productivity. The goal of this study is to identify the soil fungi that have the ability to degrade PAHs, particularly phenanthrene and naphthalene, and to evaluate the degradation efficacy and associated toxicity of identified fungi for sustainable food production. Soil samples were collected from Galle, Matara, Colombo, and Jaffna, among other urbanised areas of Sri Lanka. To isolate fungal colonies, the collected soil samples were serially diluted and plated using the spread plate method on potato dextrose agar (PDA)medium. The isolated colonies were subjected to primary screening in Bushnell Hass (BBH) medium to assess their degradation capacity. After demonstrating positive activity, colonies were selected to assess their capacity to degrade particular PAHs. Fungal strains that showed efficient degradation were identified at the molecular level. Ten morphologically different strains of fungi were identified in the first step. Nine strains showed better PAH degradation in primary screening.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Biodegradation of Crystal Violet by Ascomycetous Fungi Isolated from Local Dump Sites: An Approach for Potential Mycoremediation of Textile Dyes
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Piyumali, S. K. K; Manamgoda,D. S.; Udayanga, D
    Dyes are integral elements used to impart colours to textile materials. The wastewater effluent generated from textile industries during the processing and treatment of the dye contains inorganic and organic compounds that are hazardous, thereby posing a serious threat to ecosystems.This study focused on the assessment of the decolourization capability of textile dyes using eleven (11) ascomycetous fungal isolates, obtained from selected local dump site habitats in Sri Lanka.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Development of a Proteinous Composite Flour for the Bakery Industry
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Divyanjalee, S.; Mathangadeera, R.; Jayasinghe, M.
    Bakery products are commonly prepared using refined wheat flour, which lacks nutrients such as highquality proteins and minerals. The incorporation of plant-based ingredients into composite flours has emerged as a promising approach to improve the nutritional quality of bakery products. This study was focused to develop a nutritionally enhanced composite flour by blending exudate soy flour, pumpkin seed powder, and spinach powder with wheat flour and assess its functional suitability in muffin production. Four flour combinations were formulated: T1 (100% wheat as control), T2 (60% wheat + 36% soy + 2% pumpkin + 2% spinach), T3 (65% wheat + 31% soy + 2% pumpkin + 2% spinach), and T4 (70% wheat + 26% soy + 2% pumpkin + 2% spinach). Muffins prepared from these blends were subjected to a series of analyses, including proximate composition (protein, fat, ash, moisture), mineral content (Mg, Zn, Fe, Ca), antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), and sensory evaluation using a 5-point hedonic scale. Results revealed that the T2 formulation demonstrated the highest protein content (26.5%), strong antioxidant activity, and the most favourable sensory acceptance among all variations. These improvements were achieved without compromising taste, texture, or shelf-life stability. The findings confirm that replacing a portion of wheatflour with locally available, nutrient-rich ingredients can significantly improve the nutritional value of bakery products. Therefore, the study supports the practical potential of composite flours in addressing protein deficiency and promoting healthier bakery alternatives.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Effects of Green Synthesized Copper-Derived Nano Particles extracted from Piper betel to Eliminate Contaminations in tissue culture of Dracaena sanderiana Sander ex Mast. cv ‘Gold’
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Gunawardana, R.; Peiris, S. E.; Peiris, C. N.; Jayasinghe, S.
    Micropropagation is often hindered by contamination from endophytic microbes. While antibiotics are used to eliminate these without harming plant tissues, they risk promoting antibiotic resistance. This study explores a green alternative by synthesizing copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs) using antimicrobial-rich Piper betel leaf extract. The eco-friendly method uses plant biomolecules as natural reducing and stabilizingagents. The aim was to (i) produce Cu-NPs via eco-friendly plant-based synthesis, (ii) evaluate their antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and S. aureus, and (iii) assess their effectiveness in reducing microbial contamination in plant tissue culture. Cu-NPs were produced by reacting leaf extract with cupric sulphate under controlled heating and stirring. Their antibacterial activity was tested against E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus via time-kill assays, and their efficacy in reducing contamination was assessed by applying them to Dracaena sanderiana explants in vitro. 200 ppm was identified as the optimal concentration for the antibacterial activity in in vitro establishment trials of Dracaena sanderiana, 50 ppm Cu-NPs proved to be the most effective concentration, resulting in 100% survival when used both for surface sterilization and as a supplement in the culture medium, and 80% survival when used only for surface sterilization. Thefindings suggest that green-synthesised Cu-NPs from P. betel show potential as an alternative to antibiotics in plant tissue culture, with promising effects on contamination control and reduced risk of antibiotic resistance.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Detection of Polymorphism in Ethyl Methyl Sulfonate Treated Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A.Chev. mutants using RAPD markers
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Kondapperuma, C.; Hewagamage, H.; Pieris, S. E.
    Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. is an ornamental plant with significant horticultural value but limited genetic diversity, which constrains breeding for improved traits. This study aimed to generate and evaluate genetic and morphological variation in C. fruticosa using Ethyl Methyl Sulfonate (EMS) mutagenesis. In-vitro plantlets were exposed to EMS at concentrations of 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4%, for 10 minutes and their growth was monitored over nine weeks. Key morphological parameters, includingplant height, leaf number, and leaf pigmentation, were recorded to assess the impact of EMS treatment. Genomic DNA was extracted from treated and control plants, and genetic variation was evaluated using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. The results demonstrated that EMS induced concentration-dependent changes in plant morphology, with 1% EMS producing the greatest reduction in plant height and leaf number, as well as lighter leaf pigmentation. RAPD analysis revealed increasedgenetic polymorphism in EMS-treated groups compared to the control, with the highest level observed in the 1% EMS treatment. Cluster analysis further confirmed the genetic divergence between treated and control plants. These findings indicate that EMS mutagenesis, particularly at lower concentrations, is effective in generating both morphological and genetic diversity in C. fruticosa. The study provides a foundation for future breeding programs aiming to enhance the ornamental and adaptive traits of thisspecies through targeted mutation breeding.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Establishment of Micropropagation System for Mulberry (Morus alba L.)
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Munasinghe, S.; Priyadarshani, S. V. G. N.; Chithramali, J.
    Mulberry (Morus alba L.) is an economically and ecologically significant woody perennial widely cultivated for sericulture, pharmaceuticals, and nutraceutical applications. However, conventional propagation methods are limited by low multiplication rates, genetic heterogeneity, and vulnerability to pests and diseases. This study aimed to develop a standardised and efficient micropropagation protocol for M. alba to support large-scale, uniform plant production. Explants (nodes, stems, and leaves) from healthy threeyear- old mother plants were subjected to ten surface sterilisation treatments using combinations of Clorox (10%), AgNO₃ (0.1 g/L), Tween 20, fungicides, and antibiotics. The optimised sterilisation method achieved a contamination rate of <5% and a survival rate >90%. Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 5.0 mg/L 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 0.2 mg/L Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) yielded the highest shoot induction and shoot biomass across nodal and leaf explants. Significant callus formation was observed in nodal and stem explants, while browning -particularly in leaf cultures was mitigated using Woody Plant Medium and citric acid.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Formulation and Sensory Evaluation of a Herbal Tea Using Pomegranate Peel
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Perera, S.; Kasturiarachchi, J; Mathangadeera, R.
    This study evaluates the sensory attributes and physicochemical properties of pomegranate peel-based herbal tea formulations to determine the most acceptable blend. Sensory evaluation was conducted with a semi-trained panel (n=36) using a 9-point hedonic scale to assess aroma, brew colour, taste, astringency, aftertaste, and overall acceptability across five formulations. Statistical analysis using the Friedman test indicated significant differences in sensory acceptability among formulations (p < 0.001). Formulation 567, containing a blend of pomegranate peel powder (PPP), lemongrass powder (LP), ginger powder (GP), and cinnamon powder (CP), exhibited the highest acceptability. In addition, a comparison was made between herbal teas prepared using pomegranate peel powder and those made with coarse pomegranate peel to identify the differences and determine which is most preferred. The findings suggest that formulation 567 offers an optimal balance of sensory qualities, supporting its potential for commercial herbal tea development. This study contributes valuable insights into the utilisation of pomegranate peel waste in functional beverage formulations.
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    PublicationOpen Access
    Reduced Graphene Oxide-Based Hybrid Electrospun Nanofibers Doped with Green- Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles: An Antibacterial Wound Healing Scaffold
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Sithumini, A. G. P. M.; Rajapakshe, D. N.; De Silva, N.
    This research focuses on the development of novel antibacterial electrospun fibers composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), hydrolyzed collagen (HC), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), further modified with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) for potential wound healing applications. Green synthesis of AgNPs, using a tea extract, was verified by a colour change from yellowish-brown to dark brown and the appearance of a UVVis absorbance peak at 450 nm. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed mostly spherical AgNPs with a primary size distribution between 10 and 50 nm. Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the presence of Ag atoms (a characteristic peak at 3 keV). Particle size analysis indicated an average AgNP size of 133 nm, with a particle size distribution showing a high-intensity peak at 299 nm and a lower-intensity peak at 18.39 nm, and a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.471. SEM images of rGO-containing mats showed well-preserved fiber morphology with uniformly distributed AgNPs, in contrast to mats without rGO, where significant AgNP agglomeration covered fiber visibility. This suggests rGO's role in preventing nanoparticle aggregation and enhancing dispersion. Swelling ratio analysis demonstrated superior swelling in rGO-containing mats, reaching 390.48% after 48 hours compared to 273.6% for mats without rGO. The incorporation of rGO improves the antibacterial performance and mechanical properties of the scaffold, while green-synthesized nanoparticles further enhance the antibacterial efficacy.