Cell Biologist

  Recently, Kerala initiated the nPROUD (New Programme for Removal of Unused Drugs) to address the environmental and health hazards posed by expired and unused medicines. This pioneering government-led initiative aims to create a systematic approach to collect and dispose of these drugs safely. The programme will initially be piloted in Kozhikode and is expected to expand statewide based on its success. What is nPROUD Initiative? The nPROUD initiative was conceived due to the rising concerns over the improper disposal of drugs. Unused and expired medicines often end up in general waste. This practice leads to soil and water contamination, contributing to antimicrobial resistance . The Kerala Drugs Control Department aims to combat these issues through this innovative programme. Pilot Phase and Implementation The pilot phase will commence in Ulliyeri panchayat within Kozhikode Corporation. The programme will involve scheduled collection of unused medicines from homes. The public can...

  Recently, the state of Andhra Pradesh has witnessed a rise in Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) cases, prompting government action. The Chief Minister has ordered an investigation into the outbreak. Earlier this year, Maharashtra also reported rising cases of GBS. About Guillain-Barré Syndrome Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. GBS is characterised by muscle weakness and paralysis. It typically starts with weakness, tingling, or numbness in the limbs. Symptoms can progress rapidly, leading to paralysis that may last from six months to a year. The syndrome affects nerves responsible for muscle movement and sensation. While it can occur at any age, it is more common in adult males. Causes and Triggers The exact cause of GBS remains unknown. However, it often follows infections, either bacterial or viral. The immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s nerves after such infections. Some rare cases have been linked to va...

  The mpox clade Ib outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has raised public health concerns since its emergence in September 2023. Recent genomic and epidemiological studies indicate that this outbreak is primarily linked to sexual activity among professional sex workers in densely populated urban areas. As of January 2025, over 9,500 laboratory-confirmed cases have been reported, with a case fatality rate of 3.4%. Mpox Variants There are two main types (clades) of mpox : Clade 1 and Clade 2. Each clade has subtypes that differ in transmission and severity. Clade 2b (Global Outbreak, 2022-Present): Caused a major outbreak in 2022, spreading globally. Over 100,000 cases reported worldwide. Low fatality rate in Europe (4 deaths per 10,000 cases). Primarily affected gay & bisexual men and other men who have sex with men in the UK. Clade 1a (Endemic in the DRC): Found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for years. Spread through contact with animals or t...

  The recent outbreak of Sudan virus disease in Uganda has garnered global attention. The World Health Organization and the Ugandan government confirmed this outbreak, marking the ninth recorded since 1976. The index case (first identified case) is a 32-year-old male nurse from Kampala. As of February 11, there are nine confirmed cases, with the index case being the only reported death. This situation marks the ongoing challenges posed by viral infections in a rapidly changing world. Background of Sudan Virus Disease Sudan virus disease is part of the orthoebolavirus family, similar to Ebola virus disease. The first outbreak occurred in southern Sudan in 1976. The disease is characterised by severe symptoms including fever, fatigue, and bleeding. There are no specific treatments or vaccines available, making outbreaks particularly concerning. Recent Outbreak Details The current outbreak originated from a hospital cluster and a family cluster. The first case was confirmed in a nu...

  The recent identification of the Crocodile Catfish in the Bahini River (a tributary of Brahmaputra ) has sparked ecological concerns in Guwahati. This invasive species poses threat to local fish populations and the overall aquatic ecosystem. The State Fishery Department is actively analysing samples to determine the extent of the impact. This discovery marks ongoing issues related to invasive species in Assam’s waterways. About the Crocodile Catfish The Crocodile Catfish, scientifically known as Bagarius suchus, is a member of the Sisoridae family. It is also known as the giant devil catfish, crocodile goonch catfish or Asian giant river catfish. This species is notable for its size, being one of the largest freshwater catfish in Asia. It can grow over 1.5 metres long and weigh more than 50 kilograms. Its body is typically dark brown or black, featuring irregular patches. The dorsal fin extends nearly the entire length of its back. The Crocodile Catfish is classified as Near Th...

  Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) poses threat to cattle health and the dairy industry in India. The recent approval of Biolumpivaxin, a vaccine developed by Biovet, marks a very important moment in combating this disease. This vaccine is notable for being the world’s first Differentiating Infected from Vaccinated Animals (DIVA) marker vaccine. It aims to enhance disease surveillance and improve the management of infected and vaccinated cattle. About Lumpy Skin Disease Lumpy Skin Disease is a viral infection affecting cattle and buffaloes. It is characterised by skin nodules, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. The disease leads to decreased milk production and mobility issues in affected animals. Transmission primarily occurs through vector bites from insects such as mosquitoes and ticks. This disease has resulted in mortality and economic losses in the dairy sector. Biolumpivaxin – Key Features Biolumpivaxin is a groundbreaking vaccine that allows for the differentiation between vaccinated...

  Recent research has revealed findings regarding cardamom , often referred to as the ‘Queen of Spices’. An international team has identified six close relatives of Green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum ), expanding our understanding of this vital spice. This discovery may enhance spice production and conservation efforts. The research involved scientists from Denmark, India, Colombia, Czech Republic, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and the U.K. Discovery of New Cardamom Species Green cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), known as the “Queen of Spices,” was earlier thought to be the only species in its genus. Researchers have now identified six other species closely related to it. Four of these species were earlier placed under a different genus, Alpinia. Two new species—Elettaria facifera and Elettaria tulipifera—were discovered in Kerala’s Western Ghats. Geographical Findings Elettaria facifera was found in Periyar Tiger Reserve , Idukki district. Elettaria tulipifera was found in Agasthyama...

  In 2024, researchers from the ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research (IISR) in Kozhikode discovered a new fungal disease affecting ginger crops in Kodagu, Karnataka. The disease, caused by the pathogen Pyricularia spp., poses threat to ginger cultivation. This is the first recorded incidence of Pyricularia affecting ginger, a plant previously unaffected by this pathogen. Identification of the Disease The disease manifests as yellowing leaves with dark olive-green spots. These symptoms appear in the early stages and can lead to rapid spread across fields. Once established, the infection can cover large areas within hours, resulting in severe crop loss and plant death. Although the rhizomes remain unaffected, the premature leaf yellowing disrupts proper rhizome formation, causing losses of up to 30% in rhizome weight for farmers. Climatic Conditions and Spread The spread of the disease is closely linked to specific climatic conditions in Kodagu. The region experienced dew fall...

  The Union Budget 2025 introduced changes to import duties on life-saving drugs. The government has waived import duties on 36 essential medications and reduced it for an additional six. This initiative aims to make critical treatments more affordable for patients in India. Despite the reduction in costs, most imported drugs remain under patent protection, keeping them expensive. Changes in Import Duties The basic customs duty on life-saving medicines is set at 5%. The 2025 Budget now exempts 36 drugs used for cancer and rare diseases from any import duty. Additionally, the import duty for six other life-saving drugs has been reduced to 5% from 7.5%. Another 37 drugs under patient assistance programs are also exempted from the duty. This policy supports patients reliant on imported medications for severe medical conditions. Goods and Services Tax on Medicines All finished formulations of medicines attract a GST of 12%. However, specific medicines for critically ill patients are ...

  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is spearheading the development of a human vaccine candidate against the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 . This initiative comes in response to recent outbreaks that have posed threats to both animal and human health in India. The ICMR is inviting eligible organisations and manufacturers to collaborate in this critical research and development effort. H5N1 Outbreaks Avian influenza H5N1 is a severe strain of bird flu. It has caused outbreaks in India in 2021, 2023, and 2024. These outbreaks primarily affected poultry and wild birds. The economic impact on the poultry industry has been substantial. Public health concerns have also escalated due to the zoonotic nature of the virus. Public Health Risks H5N1 poses a grave public health risk due to its high mortality rate and potential for a global pandemic. The virus can mutate, allowing sustained human-to-human transmission. Although human cases are rare, they can lead to severe o...

  Recently, Uganda initiated a groundbreaking clinical trial for a vaccine targeting the Sudan species of the Ebola virus. This move, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and global partners, follows the confirmation of an outbreak on January 30. The speed of this trial is unprecedented, marking advancement in emergency vaccine research. About Ebola Virus Ebola is a severe disease caused by orthoebolaviruses, first identified in 1976. It primarily affects humans and primates, with transmission occurring through contact with infected bodily fluids. The virus is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa, with fruit bats as its natural hosts. Symptoms can appear between two to 21 days post-infection, leading to a high fatality rate. Vaccine Development and Clinical Trial The current clinical trial is the first to assess a vaccine specifically for the Sudan virus variant. The candidate vaccine is a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) vaccine, donated by the non-pro...

  The Indian Institute of Technology Madras recently launched the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas (BCGA). This initiative aims to enhance cancer research in India. It addresses the under-representation of Indian genetic data in global cancer studies. The launch comes ahead of World Cancer Day and marks the increasing cancer incidence in the country. Overview of the Bharat Cancer Genome Atlas The BCGA is a comprehensive database of genetic variants linked to breast cancer in India. It collects data from breast cancer patients across the country. The goal is to identify specific biomarkers for early detection and develop targeted treatment strategies. Significance of the Initiative This initiative is crucial for understanding the unique genetic landscape of Indian cancers. The database will aid in the identification of cancer-specific biomarkers. It will also facilitate the development of diagnostic kits and targeted therapies tailored to the Indian population. Research and Collaboration...

  The Zika virus has emerged as public health concern in Pune district, Maharashtra. In 2024, Pune accounted for 125 out of 151 confirmed cases of Zika reported across India. This spike in cases has attracted attention from health authorities and the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO confirmed that no severe complications such as microcephaly or Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) have been linked to these cases in India. How is Zika Virus Transmitted? Zika virus is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. The virus can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy. Other transmission routes include sexual contact, blood transfusions, and organ transplants. Awareness of these transmission methods is crucial for prevention. Current Situation in India In 2024, Maharashtra reported the highest number of Zika cases in India. It had 140 confirmed cases, with Pune being the epic...

  Recent studies have revealed a promising bacterial strain that can degrade per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Commonly referred to as “ forever chemicals ,” Researchers from the University at Buffalo have identified Labrys portucalensis F11 (F11), a bacterial strain capable of breaking down these hazardous substances effectively. About PFAS and Their Impact PFAS have been in use since the 1950s. They are found in various products such as nonstick cookware and firefighting foams. Their strong carbon-fluorine bonds make them resistant to natural degradation processes. This persistence raises environmental and health concerns, as they can accumulate in water and soil. Discovery of Labrys portucalensis F11 The F11 strain was isolated from contaminated soil in Portugal. It has shown the ability to metabolise harmful contaminants, including pharmaceuticals. However, its potential to degrade PFAS was previously unexplored. Tests revealed that F11 could degrade over 90% of perfl...