A complex for bioecological research is being created at Vitebsk State University

July 21, Vitebsk / Sergey Kochetov - BELTA /. A hardware-software complex (HSC) for bioecological research is being created at Vitebsk State University. This was reported to a BELTA correspondent by the head of the university's chemistry department, Doctor of Biological Sciences, Professor, laureate of the State Prize of Belarus Alexander Chirkina. According to him, the HSC will enable the implementation of priority fundamental and applied scientific research, primarily in the interests of the Vitebsk region. It consists of several structural elements, including high-tech equipment for chemical and computer analysis of bio-components of ecosystems. The complex is currently under development. Nevertheless, the first experience of its application has already yielded promising results. With the help of the complex, university scientists have studied the vitamin composition of a plant unique to the region - water chestnut. Now, it is possible to talk about developing a program for cultivating the plant and obtaining useful agricultural products from water bodies. And studies of the liquid of the Chinese silkworm pupa, conducted jointly with the Department of Biophysics of BSU and the central research laboratory of Grodno Medical University, have made it possible to establish its chemical composition and discover one of the most powerful natural antioxidants. Equipping the HSC with modern instruments will enable research in three promising areas: biochemical support for sports (jointly with scientists from Polotsk State University); search and creation of drugs biocompatible with human and animal cells to optimize their activity under adverse environmental conditions; study of the human habitat (jointly with Vitebsk Technological University). The complex can also be used for research under the program "Biochemistry of a Healthy Lifestyle," for training students and preparing competitive specialists in bioecology and biochemistry, and for carrying out diploma theses, candidate and doctoral dissertations. In the future, the HSC may receive the status of a collective use center for universities in the region, Alexander Chirkina noted. -0-