TOMSK, May 16. /TASS/. A microbiological laboratory for producing drugs containing Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria as well as biologically active supplements has been opened at Tomsk Polytechnic University, Acting Rector of the university Dmitry Sednev told journalists on Monday.

"Today is indeed an important moment for the university, we've been approaching it since last year. In 2021, for the 125th anniversary of the university, we reached an agreement with our partners, with EFCO Group of Companies, to open a microbiological laboratory on the basis of our university. This is really a big step forward for us in terms of both space and infrastructural equipment of the instrument base, because now we can, for example, conduct research on microbiology in an oxygen-free environment," said Sednev.

The laboratory was equipped by EFCO Group of Companies under a cooperation agreement with TPU. Repairs, purchase of equipment and necessary furniture for the laboratory are estimated at about 3 million rubles.

Once the new laboratory is opened, polytechnicians will be able to conduct a full cycle of work related to obtaining preparations containing Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. Scientists will be able to conduct research in oxygen-free conditions using new equipment - a CO2 incubator for cultivating microorganisms. These include, for example, Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. And special columns for chromatography will allow polytechnicians to work with protein preparations. Chemistry students will also be involved in the research.

"Among the promising areas of cooperation, for example, are projects on useful sugar substitutes, sweet protein, domestic probiotics and prebiotics, and biosynthesis of fats and oils. We are sure that the importance of the food industry will grow, along with its attractiveness for students, including those at TPU. EFCO has always needed a variety of specialists: we welcome biotechnologists, chemists, people who can work with their hands - mechanics, instrumentation and control engineers. In addition, we now have new areas related to unmanned aerial vehicles, materials science," said Anna Vorozhbyanova, HR Director of the Biryuch Innovation Center of EFCO Group.

The opening of the laboratory is timed to coincide with the start of the International Scientific and Practical Conference of Students and Young Scientists - Chemistry and Chemical Technology in the 21st Century at TPU. It is one of the largest Russian conferences on chemistry and chemical technology. More than 500 participants from 23 countries will present their reports over the four days of the conference.