The environmental impacts of genetically modified crops
Reading Time: < 1 minuteUniversity of Toronto Genetically modified (GM) crops are widely used worldwide, but their environmental effects need to be explored more. New research, published in a recent issue of “Science” looks at common genetic modifications in four crops: soybean, corn, cotton, and canola. Although GM crops can produce more yield and profits, it can lead to […]
Going green marks significant milestone
Reading Time: 3 minutesThis partnership marks a significant milestone in The Petri Dish’s journey toward greater environmental responsibility. The newspaper now uses Nextgreen’s “NeuWhite” paper, which holds the MyHijau mark, a certification recognised by the Malaysian government’s green recognition scheme and the SIRIM Eco Label. By embracing a greener paper choice, The Petri Dish reinforces its commitment to […]
Feed Your Mind: Unlocking the Power of the Gut-Brain Axis through Daily Diet
Reading Time: 2 minutesHave you ever felt butterflies in your stomach when you’re nervous about something? Do you know that there is a strong connection between the gut and cognitive function? Food delivers a multitude of interconnected signals, rich in sensory, nutrition, and other information to the brain as it enters the mouth and travels through the digestive […]
ISAAA Inc holds public briefing for Filipino farmers
Reading Time: 2 minutesISAAA Inc, in partnership with the Philippine Biotechnology for Agriculture and Fisheries of the Department of Agriculture (DA Biotech Program Office) and the Asian Farmer’s Network (ASFARNET), recently held a public briefing titled Biotech for Filipino Farmers: A Public Briefing on the Philippine Biotechnology and Biosafety Regulations in Iloilo City. This public briefing, part of […]
Paper highlights evolution of Ghana’s media reportage on GMOs
Reading Time: < 1 minuteMedia coverage of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) has significantly influenced public perception of this technology. A study published in GM Crops & Food explores the evolution of media reportage on GMOs in Ghana following the approval of Bt cowpea, the country’s first genetically modified crop, in 2022. The study analyzed GMO stories reported by three […]
Landmark ruling as Ghana court dismisses suit challenging GM products
Reading Time: 2 minutesGhana’s Human Rights Court has dismissed a lawsuit challenging the introduction of genetically modified (GM) products into the country, putting an end to a nine-year court battle between the country’s National Biosafety Authority (NBA) and civil society groups. This landmark decision is a significant victory in Ghana’s efforts to deliver Maruca pod borer (PBR) resistant […]
SPM school leavers must embrace STEM, TVET courses
Reading Time: 2 minutesI have recently come across a concerning trend that I feel must be addressed. SPM school leavers might have been dissuaded from pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) courses due to misconceptions about career prospects and income potential. I am sharing my perspective on this issue […]
Takeda’s Qdenga® Dengue Vaccine Approved for Use in Malaysia
Reading Time: 2 minutesThe fight against dengue fever in Malaysia takes a significant leap forward with the introduction of Takeda’s Qdenga® (Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine [Live, Attenuated]). This innovative vaccine, recently approved by the Drug Control Authority (DCA) Malaysia, offers protection against all four dengue virus serotypes for individuals aged four years and above. It is now available in […]
Revisiting the importance of childhood immunisation
Reading Time: 2 minutesThe measles outbreak in Penampang, Sabah this past January is an example of suboptimal vaccine coverage in a population. This further emphasises the importance of immunisation, which saves millions of lives every year and prevents many children from disability. Locally, the Ministry of Health has ensured that every child in Malaysia has access to the […]
Mesenchymal Stem Cells : Pioneering regenerative medicine
Reading Time: 4 minutesStem cell research holds immense potential for advancing our understanding of human biology, developing new treatments for various diseases, and revolutionising regenerative medicine. Cell biologist and The Petri Dish science journalist Dr. Muganti Rajah gives the low down on mesenchymal stem cells – also known as medicine’s blank cheque, for their ability to be turned […]