Biotechnology and Fisheries Products Research Section

The Biotechnology and Fisheries Products Research Section was set up in 1995 as a new arm of Fisheries Research Institute. As a relatively new section, the research capability and capacity are still being developed. Two main fields of research carried out are bioextraction from aquatic organisms and seafood safety. Research on bioremediation in controlling aquatic pollution is also being pursued. Funding for the research project planned is sourced from the central government and the Intensification of Research in Priority Areas (IRPA) programme.

Objectives

• To screen and identify marine organisms that have potential to be exploited for nutriceutical, pharmaceutical and other value added products.
  
• To identify appropriate technologies for aquatic-based nutriceuticals and other value added products.
  
• To provide scientific information for the management of the seafood industry and to serve as the 'National Reference Laboratory' especially in terms of seafood safety and quality assurance.
  
• To develop technologies for bioremediation.
  

Programmes

Biotechnology
Plans are being drawn up to undertake research on extraction of nutriceutical compounds (e.g. unsaturated fatty acid such as EPA, DHA, enzymes, bioflavourant etc) and pharmaceutical compound (vitamin, anticancer, antifungal, antibacteria, antimicrobial, drug etc) from aquatic organisms and also by-products of the fish processing industry. At present research on extraction of bioactive compounds (antifungal, antibacterial and anticancer) from seaweeds and sea cucumber is on going.

Seafood Safety and Quality Assurance

The main objective of this research is to address national and international requirements for food safety and to assist seafood trade. At the moment research is being conducted to assess the extent of chemical and biological contaminants (biotoxin, microorganisms, pathogens, histamine, formaldehyde and harmful dinoflagellates) in seafood, seafood product, culturing and harvesting waters. The results from this research programme will assist in assuring the safety of food from water.