A cDNA-AFLP approach was used to identify transcript and/or genes specifically expressed in response to drought in tea. Drought was artificially induced and whole genome transcript profiling was done at three different stages-6 days before wilting, 3 days before wilting and at wilting stage of both tolerant and susceptible cultivars, and genetic differences was thus visualized as polymorphisms in the transcriptome. The cDNA-AFLP technique allowed genes and transcripts to be identified in the tolerant genotype (TV-23) whose expression is responsive to drought stress. The cluster analysis revealed two types of clustering-type I separated the tolerant and susceptible cultivar, whereas type II separated the time point of sample and this may be grouped as early and late responsive transcripts. 108 transcript derived fragments were identified as differentially expressed in tolerant genotypes of which 89 sequences could be obtained. Fifty-nine of them showed homology in the public databases. Functional ontology showed genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, response to stress, protein modification process and translation. Cluster I includes five fragments and cluster II includes 25 fragments. Other genes strongly expressed in response to drought in tolerant genotype would help us in identifying and determining the genetic basis of mechanisms involved in conferring drought tolerance in tea.

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The present work is an attempt to develop transgenic hairy root system in Camellia assamica, using leaves infected by Agrobacterium rhizogenes strain LBA9402, harboring binary vector (pART27 and pBI121) carrying β-glucuronidase (gus) as reporter gene and neomycin phosphotransferase (nptII) as selection marker. The transformed hairy roots were grown in phytohormone free MS media in the presence of kanamycin 50 µg/ml. The incorporation and expression of foreign genes were checked by initial gus assay followed by PCR analysis for the presence of nptII and β-glucuronidase (gus) gene. This protocol therefore facilitates the study of gene expression system in general and for root functional genomics in particular, giving scope for transgenic hairy roots as future explants for secondary metabolite production and plantlet regeneration.

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Traditional medicine is the oldest form of medicine and modern medicine has its roots in it. The experienced folklore practitioners are very scientific in their approach and understand well the mind and body relationship. This has enabled them to treat their patients in an integrated and holistic manner. Indian system of medicine has identified around medicinal plants, of which 500 species are used in preparation of drug formulations. KiratDesh an ancient name of Tripura was well known as a land of hills and dates in the past and was very rich in flora and fauna diversity. Almost all the plants contain some chemical compounds that are beneficial to mankind and many of them are used for medicinal values. In Tripura, about 266 species have been found to have medicinal properties. Folklore practitioners of Tripura were studied for the use of indigenous medicinal plants in the treatment of bone fractures. They use a combination of herbal, physical and natural process for treatment. They know that natural resources that have nurtured the human race the secret of healing. Knowledge of Traditional medicine is like a family heirloom and is transferred by means of inheritance. This precious knowledge should be conserved and all of indigenous medicinal plants should be protected from unauthorized use for monetary gain. We recorded 23 numbers of wild indigenous medicinal plant species and formulations of 12 types of traditional medicine treatments for the cure of bone fractures. This is a preliminary study and there is more scope for further extensive research and documentation.