ANSO-PAS-QAU Workshop

Molecular detection and characterization of bat-borne viruses from Pakistan

23 09, 2024

“Experimental and Ethical Considerations in Non-Human Virus Research”

University of Loralai, Balochistan and Bolan University of Medical and Health Sciences (BUMHS), Quetta

August 03-05, 2024

Taking into account the Balochistan's unique ecological and socio-economic context, a three-day workshop on "Experimental and Ethical Considerations in Non-Human Virus Research" was held from August 3-5, 2024, at the University of Loralai (Balochistan) and Bolan University of Medical & Health Sciences (BUMHS), Quetta, Balochistan, which was organized by the Alliance of the National and International Science Organizations for the Belt and Road Regions (ANSO) in collaboration with the Pakistan Academy of Sciences (PAS) and Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), Islamabad, Pakistan. The workshop discussed diagnostics and research experiments, effective strategies for mitigating the risks associated with viral transmission and outbreaks, ultimately protecting the health and well-being of both humans and animals in the region.

The inaugural session commenced with a welcome address by Professor Dr. Ehsanullah Kakar, Vice Chancellor of the University of Loralai, who emphasized the importance of the workshop in addressing the experimental and ethical considerations in non-human virus research. The Chief Guest Dr. Muhammad Nawaz Kibzai (MPA) graced the occasion with his presence and highlighted the significance of the workshop in the context of advancement of the Loralai University. He emphasized the need for continuous conferences and workshops to spread valuable knowledge to our youngsters and he also appreciated the University structure is rapidly improving in a very short time and hope will improve further, and this great change will change the society. The Guest of Honor, Dr. Khalid M, Iraqi announced a collaborative initiative between the University of Karachi and Loralai University, aimed at fostering improvement and development through joint conferences and knowledge sharing. This partnership will facilitate mutual growth, enhance research opportunities, and foster a dynamic academic environment. Through cooperation, both this collaboration, both institutions will leverage their expertise and resources to achieve greater heights in education and innovation.

Prof. Dr. Zabta K. Shinwari, vice chancellor Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science & Technology (FUAST) delivered a keynote speech on role of leadership in higher education in shaping experimental and ethical standards in infectious pathogenic research. He discussed the global challenges, recent advancements in science & ethics, and importance of eveolving role of leadership in higher education in addressing local problems. He stressed that collective efforts are necessary to achieve shared goals.

Prof. Dr. Saeed Khan, President of the Pakistan Biological Safety Association (PBSA), delivered a keynote lecture on the pressing issue of climate change and its link to emerging viruses. He posed a critical question, "Are we facing the next pandemic?" Dr. Khan highlighted the alarming connection between environmental shifts and viral outbreaks, emphasizing the need for preparedness. His lecture underscored the importance of understanding the impact of climate change on viral dynamics. The presentation sparked a crucial discussion on the potential for future pandemics.

After the tea break, the students were grouped into six stations for practical exercises to gain hands-on experience and covered various aspects of non-human virus research, including biosafety protocols, laboratory techniques, and ethical considerations by Master Trainers Dr. Sadganj Baloch & Dr. Abdurauf (Fatima Jinnah Institute of Chest Diseases, Quetta), Dr. Naeem (University of Balochistan), Dr. Sidra Rehman from Quaid-i-Azam University, Dr. Ali Talha Khalil from Lady Reading Hospital in Peshawar, Dr. Sareen Fatima (AlAhmad Islamic University Quetta).

After lunch, Dr. Muhammad Ali presented "Emerging Viral Threats: Preparedness and Response." He highlighted the importance of being prepared for emerging viral threats and shared his expertise on the strategies for effective response. Dr. Liaqat Ali discussed "Use of Real-Time PCR for Detection and Quantification of Viruses," sharing his expertise on the application of real-time PCR in viral detection and quantification.

On the second day, Dr. Asad Zia, Senior scientist at Public Health Reference Laboratory, KP, in his presentation discussed international health regulations (IHRs), the diagnosis of Crimean Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, its prevalence in the month of Eid ul Azha and public health interventions. In his talk, Dr Asad pointed out that notifiable diseases must be reported by integrated disease surveillance response systems (IDSRs) because Pakistan is a signatory of IHRs. Dr. Sareen Fatima delivered a lecture on "Infection Prevention and Control: Best Practices and Global Strategies" emphasized the importance of evidence-based measures to prevent and control infections. Expert speakers shared best practices and global strategies for infection prevention and control, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach. The lecture covered key topics including hand hygiene, personal protective equipment, and environmental cleaning.

Mr. Amjad Khan delivered a talk on " Plant viruses: Symptoms, Detection, and Control Measures" emphasizing the need for protecting plants from emerging pathogens. Dr. Fazal Akbar presented a keynote lecture on "Economical and Ethical Considerations in Antiviral Medicinal Plants Research," discussing the potential of medicinal plants in antiviral research and the ethical considerations involved in such research. Dr. Ali Talha Khalil, Assistant Professor and Consultant in the Department of Pathology, Lady Reading Hospital MTI, Peshawar, in his talk, emphasized the significance of continuous process improvement and quality management systems in laboratories and healthcare setups. While speaking to the students and faculty, Dr. Khalil, proposed that the institutions should embrace new philosophies for improving their services and the leadership in institutions should provide support to such bright minds who are willing to undertake innovative approaches.

Mr. Sajid Ali Shah, a Ph.D. student, discussed the human-animal interface as a critical zone for influenza virus transmission. Influenza viruses can jump from animals to humans through close contact at farms, markets, and slaughterhouses. Animal influenza viruses can mutate and adapt to infect humans, leading to severe disease, pandemics, or zoonotic outbreaks. Understanding and monitoring this interface is crucial for early detection and prevention of interspecies transmission, protecting public health. Dr. Muhammad Ali, discussed Zoonotic viruses associated with animal slaughtering, it’s precautions and biological safety. He highlighted case reports of a few viral infections that needs precautionary measures while slaughtering animals.

In the concluding ceremony, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Azam Kakar appreciated the students of Loralai, giving hope and talking about the future opportunities for the students at the national and international levels. He stresses the importance of collaborations and knowledge sharings during conferences/workshops.

Panel Discussion--“Non-human viruses pose a future threat?”

August 05, 2024

The 3rd day of the workshop was at Bolan University of Medical & Health Sciences (BUMHS), Quetta, Balochistan. A panel discussion was held on "Non-Human Viruses Pose a Future Threat?" moderated by Dr. Laiba Achakzai. The awareness session and panel discussion were part of the “ANSO-PAS-QAU workshop on Experimental and Ethical Considerations in Non-Human Virus Research” held from August 03-05 at Balochistan (University of Loralai and BUMHS). Dr. Muhammad Ali (Principal Investigator of the ANSO project and Associate professor at Quaid-i-Azam University) discussed in his talk that bats are natural reservoirs for more than 300 viruses, including coronaviruses, filoviruses (such as Ebola and Marburg), and rabies, among others. These viruses can spill over to humans and other animals through direct or indirect contact with bats, their excreta, or through intermediate hosts. The risk of transmission is heightened by factors such as habitat encroachment and close interactions of animals/bats with humans. Monitoring these viruses in bat populations is crucial for preventing potential outbreaks and managing public health risks. Despite these risks, bats are vital to ecosystems as pollinators and insect & pests eaters, and hence are savings billions of dollars by performing these useful actions. Other panelists in this discussion were Dr. Nadeem Samad, Dr. Ali Talha Khalil, Dr. Farida Kakar, Dr. Safia Mengal, and Dr. Laiba Achakzai (as moderator).

The workshop fostered collaboration and provided critical training to enhance the region's preparedness for emerging viral threats. The event highlights the importance of a unified, scientifically-informed approach to managing viral infections, ensuring the health and safety of vulnerable communities in Pakistan's northern regions and beyond, through collective efforts and molecular expertise.

Background of the workshop

Balochistan, a vast and diverse province in southwestern Pakistan, is home to a unique array of environment and ecosystems. The region's strategic location, bordering Iran and Afghanistan, makes it a critical hub for trade across international borders. The province's rugged terrain and limited healthcare infrastructure pose significant challenges to the detection, prevention, and control of viral outbreaks. Furthermore, the region's rich biodiversity, including a wide range of animal species, increases the risk of zoonotic transmission of viruses.

Source: Dr. Muhammad Ali

Department of Biotechnology, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad