Abstract

Abstract
“Blessed be Allah, the Best of Creators” [23:15]
In the early 20th century, researchers began to unravel the great potential of microorganisms to
improve the health of humans with the discovery of drugs such as Penicillin. These compounds
known as antibiotics are produced by bacteria and fungi to fight off other organisms. It was these
revolutionary compounds that transformed modern health care and were key in reducing the burden
of infectious diseases, saving millions of lives.
Allah says in the Holy Qur’an,
“And He has subjected to you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth: all this is
from Him. In that surely are Signs for a people who reflect.” [45:14]
From cattle to E.coli, it is the great beneficence of Allah that He has gifted humans with the capability
to harness the power of nature and His creation. However, when this early work into microorganisms
was being undertaken, no one could have predicted the great potential they could have for humans.
While it is important to find cures to diseases and other human maladies through directed research,
the last 100 years of science has repeatedly shown us that basic science, that is open ended
inquisitiveness leads the way in finding new cures and new possibilities.
My talk will highlight how basic science research especially into microorganisms such as bacteria
and viruses has helped to revolutionize the way we treat diseases and has driven our understanding
of the building blocks of life. I will discuss specific examples of the origins of biotechnology, drug
discovery, molecular biology, and the latest gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR. My aim will
be to inspire and to educate the attendees (both scientific & nonscientific) about the wonders of basic
science as a vessel to improve the world.