Cell Biologist

  Recently, Georgia was officially certified malaria-free by the World Health Organization (WHO). This achievement marks milestone for the country and the WHO European region. Georgia joins 45 other countries and one territory that have reached this status. The certification reflects decades of effort and investment in malaria control and elimination. Historical Context of Malaria in Georgia Malaria has affected Georgia for centuries. Before systematic control began in the early 1900s, three malaria parasite species were endemic – Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium malariae, and Plasmodium vivax. After World War II, Georgia initiated an extensive malaria elimination programme. This included the use of new medicines, insecticide spraying, and improved entomological surveillance. Key Milestones in Malaria Elimination Georgia successfully interrupted the transmission of Plasmodium falciparum by 1953. Plasmodium malariae was eliminated by 1960, followed by Plasmodium vivax in 1970. Alt...

  Recently, researchers from Banaras Hindu University identified a new species of phytopathogenic fungi named *Epicoccum indicum*. This discovery is linked to an emerging leaf spot disease affecting *Chrysopogon zizanioides*, commonly known as vetiver or khus. This discovery marks the importance of understanding plant diseases and their impacts on agriculture and medicinal plants . Identification Process *Epicoccum indicum* was identified through a combination of morpho-cultural characteristics and multigene molecular phylogenetic analyses. The phylogenetic study showed that this species forms a distinct clade, differentiating it from related species. This classification was crucial for recognising it as a new species. Importance of Vetiver *Chrysopogon zizanioides* is valued for its medicinal properties. It is used in traditional medicine for treating pain, inflammation, and infections. The discovery of *Epicoccum indicum* poses a risk to this important plant, making early dete...

  Nutritional support for tuberculosis (TB) patients and their household contacts has emerged as important factor in improving treatment outcomes. Recent findings from the RATIONS trial conducted in Jharkhand between August 2019 and August 2022 highlight the impact of nutritional interventions. The trial involved 2,800 pulmonary TB patients and over 10,000 household contacts. It demonstrated that providing nutritional support reduced new pulmonary TB cases by 48% and decreased deaths among severely underweight individuals. Key Findings from the RATIONS Trial The RATIONS trial revealed that nutritional support not only benefited TB patients but also impacted their household contacts. The data showed a marked reduction in new cases and mortality rates. For those under 35 kg, the death rate was only 7%. This indicates that nutritional interventions can enhance the overall health of both patients and their families. Economic Modelling Study A recent modelling study estimated the broad...

  Recent studies have revealed alarming vital information about the effects of microplastics on brain function. Research published in *Science Advances* indicates that microplastics may obstruct blood circulation, leading to impaired cognitive abilities. These findings stem from experiments conducted on mice, denoting the urgent need to understand the implications for human health. What Are Microplastics? Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 millimetres. They originate from the degradation of larger plastic items and from manufactured plastic pellets. These particles are ubiquitous, found in oceans, soil, and even in remote regions like Antarctic ice . Microplastics can enter the human body through various pathways, including ingestion and inhalation. Mechanisms of Impact on the Brain The study used advanced imaging techniques to observe microplastics in the mouse brain. Researchers tracked the movement of these particles in real-time. They found microplastics lodged...

  Recently, Pune has reported increase in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, with 59 individuals diagnosed, including 12 requiring ventilator support. The Maharashtra health department is investigating this sudden rise. Health officials indicate that GBS can occur after infections, but it does not lead to widespread outbreaks. About Guillain-Barré Syndrome GBS is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks peripheral nerves. This results in symptoms like weakness, numbness, and in severe cases, paralysis. The exact cause remains unclear, but infections often precede the onset of GBS symptoms. Types of Guillain-Barré Syndrome GBS encompasses several forms. The most common is Acute Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyradiculoneuropathy (AIDP), primarily seen in North America and Europe. Other types include Miller Fisher Syndrome (MFS), characterised by eye-related paralysis, and Acute Motor Axonal Neuropathy (AMAN), prevalent in certain regions like China and Japa...

  The World Economic Forum (WEF) has released a report denoting the economic potential of addressing women’s health issues. Titled “Blueprint to Close the Women’s Health Gap,” the report reveals that improving women’s health could contribute an estimated $400 billion to global GDP by 2040. It identifies nine critical health conditions impacting women’s lives and puts stress on the need for targeted research and investment. Women’s Health Disparities Women experience 25% more years of poor health compared to men. This disparity is largely due to insufficient research and funding focused on women-specific health conditions. The report indicates that women are often overlooked in clinical trials, particularly in areas like ischemic heart disease and migraine , where only 10% include sex-specific data. Key Health Conditions Identified The report categorises nine health conditions into two groups – lifespan and health span conditions. Lifespan conditions include maternal hypertensive d...

  In early 2025, a study revealed mutations in the H5N1 avian influenza strain isolated from a human in Texas . This discovery raised alarms about the potential for the virus to evolve and pose a greater threat to human health. The research brought into light the strain’s unique genetic changes compared to those found in cattle, indicating a worrying trend in the virus’s adaptability. Recent Findings A study published on January 8, 2025, identified nine unique mutations in the H5N1 strain from a human patient. These mutations enhance the virus’s ability to replicate in human cells and increase its virulence. Impact on Agriculture Since 2024, clade 2.3.4.4b of H5N1 has affected around 928 dairy herds in the United States. Millions of birds have died due to the outbreak, denoting the virus’s widespread impact on agriculture. Human Infection Case The Texas case involved a dairy farm worker who developed symptoms after contact with infected milk. This incident puts stress on the zoono...

  Recent studies have brought into light discrepancies in cardiovascular risk assessment for individuals with HIV. Research from Massachusetts General Hospital indicates that existing risk models often miscalculate cardiovascular events, particularly among women and African descent individuals in high-income countries, while overestimating risks in low and middle-income countries. These findings are crucial for enhancing cardiovascular disease prevention strategies in the HIV population. Study Overview The study published in Lancet HIV on January 17, 2025, analysed data from the REPRIEVE trial. It focused on individuals with HIV aged 40-75 years, assessing their cardiovascular risk across various income levels globally. Key Findings Risk Underestimation – In high-income countries, cardiovascular risk was underestimated for women and black participants Risk Overestimation – In low and middle-income countries, the risk was overestimated for all individuals with HIV. Calibration Adj...

  Recent breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s disease research offer new hope for effective treatments. A team led by Professor Anirban Bhunia at the Bose Institute has explored innovative approaches to combat neurodegenerative disorders, particularly focusing on amyloid proteins, which are central to Alzheimer’s pathology. Role of Amyloid Proteins Amyloid proteins contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. They aggregate to form plaques in the brain, leading to cell death. This process causes cognitive decline and memory loss, hallmarks of the disease. Innovative Treatment Strategies Professor Bhunia’s team employed two main strategies. First, they chemically synthesised peptides to inhibit amyloid beta aggregation. Second, they repurposed Lasunadya Ghrita (LG), an Ayurvedic remedy, to target amyloid beta aggregation effectively. Lasunadya Ghrita (LG) LG is a traditional Ayurvedic medicine known for treating mental illnesses. Its non-toxic compounds were characterised for their ability to disrup...

  Recent studies have shed light on Huntington’s disease, a genetic disorder leading to the degeneration of brain cells . Despite the known genetic mutation, its delayed onset remains puzzling. New research indicates that the mutation, initially harmless, becomes harmful over time, ultimately causing neurological damage. This disease typically manifests between the ages of 30 and 50, with symptoms worsening over a period of 10 to 25 years. What is Huntington’s disease? Huntington’s disease is linked to a specific gene with a repeating DNA sequence known as CAG. In affected individuals, this sequence repeats 40 times or more, whereas in healthy individuals, it ranges from 15 to 35 repeats. The mutation’s length increases over time, with detrimental effects on neurons when exceeding 150 repeats. Research Findings A study involving 53 Huntington’s patients and 50 controls analysed half a million brain cells. Researchers discovered that CAG repeat expansions accelerate after reaching ...

  Recent reports have raised alarm over Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), also known as “ zombie deer disease ,” and its potential to jump to humans. This incurable prion disease primarily affects deer and has recently been detected in feral pigs. Experts warn that if CWD evolves to infect humans, it could lead to severe neurological symptoms and even death. What Is Chronic Wasting Disease? Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) affecting deer. It is caused by misfolded proteins called prions, leading to severe neurological damage and death in affected animals. Symptoms of CWD Symptoms in infected animals include drooling, confusion, weight loss, aggression, and unsteadiness. These symptoms may appear about a year after infection. Transmission of CWD CWD spreads through saliva, urine, blood, and feces. Infected animals can transmit the disease to others, raising concerns about its potential spillover to humans. Current Spread of CWD CWD has be...

  Recent studies have advanced our understanding of gene evolution and function. In December 2024, two prominent research groups published findings that shed light on how new genes are created. One group from the University of Nevada, Reno, reported in *Molecular Biology and Evolution*, while the other from the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology in Germany published in *Genome Biology and Evolution*. These studies explored gene duplication, methylation, and the role of random DNA sequences in evolution. Genes and Chromosomes Genes are segments of DNA that determine the characteristics of an organism. Humans possess 24 chromosomes, which include 22 numbered chromosomes and two sex chromosomes (X and Y). Each person inherits one set of chromosomes from each parent, resulting in two copies of each chromosome. Identical twins originate from a single zygote, while non-identical twins arise from separate zygotes. DNA Structure and Function Each DNA molecule consists of two st...

  The Government of India is revising its regulatory framework for medical devices to enhance safety and efficiency. This initiative aims to classify approximately 1,178 medical devices into four distinct categories based on their risk profiles. The Central Drugs Standards Control Organization (CDSCO) is spearheading this effort under the Medical Device Rule, 2017. The new classifications will ensure that medical devices are approved only by the appropriate State Licensing Authorities, thereby improving oversight in the sector. Classification Categories The medical devices will be divided into four categories Interventional radiology – 186 devices Radiology therapy – 114 devices Oncology – 75 devices A new class A for non-sterile and non-measuring devices – 803 types of medical equipment. Market Growth Projections India’s medical devices market is currently valued at approximately $11 billion. Experts predict that this market will expand to $50 billion by 2030. This growth is attri...

  In January 2025, a Louisiana resident became the first person in the United States to die from the H5N1 bird flu virus. The individual, aged 65, had underlying health conditions and had been hospitalised since mid-December. Health authorities confirmed that the general public’s risk remains low, despite this tragic incident. The Louisiana Department of Health indicated that the patient contracted the virus after exposure to both a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. Fortunately, no additional infections or evidence of person-to-person transmission have been reported in the state. About H5N1 Bird Flu H5N1 is a subtype of the influenza A virus primarily affecting birds. It can occasionally infect humans, leading to severe respiratory illness. The World Health Organization has documented over 950 global cases, with a mortality rate around 50%. The virus was first identified in 1996, and outbreaks have surged since 2020, impacting various mammal species. Symptoms of Bird F...

Recent events have brought into light a serious outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 in India. Three tigers and a leopard have succumbed to the virus at the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur. This incident marks first, as it is the first recorded case of HPAI causing mortality among captive wildlife in India. Following these deaths, the Maharashtra authorities have declared a red alert for zoos across the state. Background of HPAI H5N1 HPAI H5N1 is a highly contagious virus primarily affecting birds. It has been reported to infect over 500 species, including at least 70 mammalian species. The virus has spread globally, affecting wildlife and livestock across 108 countries on five continents. Notably, it has reached extreme environments, impacting polar bears and even penguins in Antarctica. Recent Developments in Nagpur The tigers and leopard were rescued from the wild in December 2024 due to human-animal conflict . Following th...

  The Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) has recently raised concerns regarding adverse drug reactions (ADRs) linked to widely used beta blocker medications. These drugs, including metoprolol, propranolol, and atenolol, are commonly prescribed for heart-related conditions. The IPC’s findings tell the importance of monitoring these medications due to the potential for severe side effects, such as hypokalaemia, which can be life-threatening. About Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) Adverse drug reactions refer to harmful, unintended effects resulting from medication use. ADRs can arise from a single dose or prolonged use of a drug. They may also occur due to drug interactions, emphasising the need for careful monitoring by healthcare professionals. Beta Blockers and Their Uses Beta blockers are medications primarily used to treat various cardiovascular conditions. They help manage hypertension, prevent heart attacks, and control abnormal heart rhythms. Additionally, beta blockers are ...

  Recent research has revealed a promising approach to combat malaria by targeting the lipid transport in Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes. The study, published in PLOS Biology, marks the critical role of lipophorin in the development of Plasmodium falciparum, the malaria parasite. By inhibiting lipid metabolism, particularly through the use of broad-spectrum lipase inhibitors, researchers demonstrated that it is possible to induce sterility in female mosquitoes. This innovative strategy could lead to advancements in mosquito control and malaria prevention. The Role of Lipophorin in Mosquito Development Lipophorin is essential for transporting lipids within the mosquito. It facilitates the transfer of vital nutrients required for egg development. Disruption of lipophorin function can severely affect the survival of mosquito embryos. Impact of Lipase Inhibitors on Mosquito Fertility Exposing adult female mosquitoes to lipase inhibitors, such as orlistat, before an infectious blood mea...

  China’s disease control authority recently announced a pilot monitoring system aimed at tracking pneumonia of unknown origin. This initiative comes in response to an expected rise in respiratory infections during the winter months. The country has already observed an increase in overall infections, particularly in northern provinces, with human metapneumovirus (HMPV) emerging as a notable pathogen among younger populations. Despite viral social media claims about a health emergency , no official declaration has been made. About Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) Human metapneumovirus is a respiratory virus first identified in 2001. It belongs to the Pneumoviridae family, which includes other viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). HMPV causes infections resembling the common cold, affecting both upper and lower respiratory tracts. The virus is most prevalent during winter and early spring, with children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals at higher risk for complic...

  Recent advancements in cancer treatment have emerged from researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology-Guwahati (IIT-G) and the Bose Institute, Kolkata. They have developed an innovative injectable hydrogel that offers localised treatment for cancer , particularly breast cancer. This hydrogel acts as a stable reservoir for anti-cancer drugs, releasing them in a controlled manner while protecting healthy cells from damage. The findings were published in the journal Materials Horizons, indicating leap forward in cancer therapy. What is the Hydrogel? The hydrogel is a three-dimensional polymer network that is water-based. It is designed to absorb and retain fluids, mimicking living tissues. This unique structure makes it suitable for various biomedical applications, particularly in drug delivery systems. Composition of the Hydrogel The hydrogel is composed of ultra-short peptides, which are biocompatible and biodegradable protein building blocks. Its formulation ensures that it...

  The Uttarakhand Forest Department has established two gardens in Haldwani, showcasing plant species referenced in ancient Indian epics. These gardens, named Ramayana Vatika and Mahabharata Vatika, aim to highlight the ecological wisdom embedded in these texts. Mahabharata Vatika Overview Mahabharata Vatika spans one acre and features 37 plant species mentioned in the epic. Chief Conservator of Forests Sanjeev Chaturvedi emphasised the research behind selecting these species. The garden features important plant species such as: Ecological Significance The garden puts stress on the importance of forests as depicted in the Mahabharata. It references the Vana Parva, which discusses tree planting and wildlife conservation . The epic highlights the mutual dependence of tigers and forests, a concept vital to contemporary conservation efforts. Cultural Connections Chaturvedi brought into light that the Mahabharata teaches the spiritual significance of planting trees. He mentioned Bhish...