GUEST LECTURE

Department:  Chemistry		Date 5th May 2026
Class/ Target audience	PG Chemistry
Name, Designation and Professional Details of the Resource Person: Dr P. Mary Anupama, Head, Dept of Biochemistry, SJCW(A)

 

Report on Guest Lecture on Nucleic Acids

A guest lecture on “Nucleic Acids” was delivered by Dr. P. Mary Anupama to the postgraduate Chemistry students of St. Joseph's College for Women on 5th May 2026. The session aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the chemistry, structure, and biological significance of nucleic acids, with special emphasis on the experimental proofs underlying nucleic acid structure.

The lecture began with an introduction to nucleic acids and their role as the genetic material of living organisms. Detailed explanations were provided on the structural organization of nucleotides and nucleosides. The speaker elaborated on the chemical and experimental proofs demonstrating that nitrogen bases are linked to ribose through the N9 position in purines. Hydrolysis studies, methylation experiments, X-ray crystallography, and stability analyses were discussed systematically.

Further, the session highlighted the chemical evidence supporting the furanose form of ribose and deoxyribose in nucleic acids. The lecture also explained the significance of phosphodiester linkages and the experimental proofs supporting the 3′–5′ phosphate linkage in nucleic acids. Students were introduced to the pioneering contributions of scientists such as Rosalind Franklin, Watson, Crick, and Todd in elucidating DNA structure.

A detailed description of the typical B-DNA structure was presented, including antiparallel strands, complementary base pairing, hydrogen bonding, helical dimensions, and the biological importance of major and minor grooves. The lecture successfully connected biochemical concepts with structural chemistry, helping students appreciate the molecular basis of heredity.

The session was highly interactive and informative. Students actively participated in discussions and clarified their doubts regarding nucleic acid chemistry and molecular structure. The lecture greatly enriched their conceptual understanding of advanced biomolecular chemistry topics.

 First year biochemis

try students have completed the certificate course in general physiology and recieved their certificates

 DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY

Report on World Health Day

Date- 7^th April, 2026                                      

REPORT

Faculty coordinator- Dr P. Mary Anupama and Dr Mousami Shankar Addala

 

World Health Day 2026 Celebrations at St. Joseph's College for Women. The Department of Biochemistry, St. Joseph's College for Women, observed World Health Day 2026 on April 7, 2026, with great enthusiasm. The event was conducted online, and 13 students participated in creating posters on the theme "Healthy Eating and Healthy Living". The posters showcased the students' understanding of the importance of nutrition and wellness in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The event aimed to promote awareness about the significance of healthy eating habits and regular physical activity in preventing diseases. The Department of Biochemistry, St. Joseph's College for Women, is known for its excellent infrastructure and experienced faculty, including Dr. P. Mary Anupama and Dr. A. Mousami Sankar

For teenage girls, this day is particularly significant as it's a crucial period of physical, emotional, and social changes. During adolescence, girls are more vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron and iodine, which can impact their growth and development. unicef.org

 healthline.com

 A balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein is vital for their overall health and well-being. This day serves as a reminder for teenage girls to prioritize their health by adopting healthy habits, such as:

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins

Staying hydrated and limiting sugary drinks.

Engaging in regular physical activity,

Practicing self-care and stress management.

 

By focusing on their health, teenage girls can set themselves up for a lifetime of wellness and empowerment.

 

 

 

Nature visit to Zoo- Outreach activity

Date- 29^th March, 2025                                              

REPORT

Faculty coordinator- Dr P. Mary Anupama

Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Visakhapatnam has an establishment of over 60 years and has recently changed a lot making the environment favourable for the animals. They mimicked the animal’s natural environment and provided them with good facilities and also protection from visitors. To see, appreciate and also adopt, Dr P. Mary Anupama has visited the Zoo with 3 students who are animal lovers and 2 rangers who had to learn about animals and nature.

Dr Anupama has adopted love birds for one year by paying Rs. 5000/-. The curator approved receipt of the amount and display board of Dr Anupama would be kept at adoption. The students promised to promote the adoption activity of animals as empathy is important for coexistence.