Cell Biologist

  The discovery of a new species of bacteria , Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis, has opened new avenues in the field of bioelectricity. This bacterium, found on the central Oregon coast, is notable for its ability to conduct electricity. Its unique features and capabilities may have implications for medicine, industry, and environmental monitoring. Historical Context of Bioelectricity The study of electricity began with ancient philosophers. Thales of Miletus was among the first to investigate static electricity. His observations laid the groundwork for future research. Alessandro Volta later used the electric properties of eels to create the first battery. This marked the transition from natural phenomena to practical applications of electricity. Characteristics of Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis Ca. Electrothrix yaqonensis is a rod-shaped bacterium. Its cells are connected end to end, forming filaments that can extend several centimetres. This structure is rare among bacteria. The species...

  The HCA aims to map cells, the fundamental building blocks of life. It seeks to revolutionize the understanding of human biology by cataloging the diversity of cells, their functions, and interactions in healthy tissues. The goal of the project is to utilize this knowledge to enhance disease diagnosis , treatment, and prevention across diverse populations. Furthermore, the HCA intends to bridge gaps in cellular biology by addressing questions of variation in cell types across individuals with different genetic backgrounds, environmental exposures, and life experiences. The project employs cutting-edge techniques, such as single-cell and spatial genomics, to map human cells. These technologies, previously unavailable at this scale, are enabling unprecedented insights into single-cell behaviors and tissue organization. Understanding cellular diversity can illuminate the underlying mechanisms of diseases and health conditions, and the HCA has already been used to identify rare cell ...

  Recent research from the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in the Netherlands has uncovered a concerning trend regarding caddisfly larvae. Evidence shows that these insects have been using microplastics in their casings since the 1970s. This finding marks the long-standing issue of environmental contamination by plastics. The study, published in the journal *Science of The Total Environment*, analysed preserved caddisfly casings, revealing the integration of synthetic materials into their natural habitats. Caddisfly Overview Caddisflies belong to the order Trichoptera. They are found globally, primarily in freshwater ecosystems like lakes and rivers. These moth-like insects lay their eggs in jelly masses. After hatching, the larvae create protective cases from nearby materials. Traditionally, these materials include sand, stones, and organic debris. Discovery of Microplastics The researchers examined 549 preserved caddisfly casings from natural history collections. They discovere...

  Zero-stage lung cancer, also known as Stage 0 lung cancer or carcinoma in situ, represents the earliest form of lung cancer. In 2023, veteran actor Sharmila Tagore publicly shared her personal battle with this condition. This stage is characterised by the presence of abnormal cells in the lining of the airways without invasive growth. What is Zero-Stage Lung Cancer? Zero-stage lung cancer is a non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) variant. It indicates that cancerous cells are confined to the inner lining of the lungs. These cells have not yet invaded surrounding tissues or spread to lymph nodes or other body parts. Early detection is crucial as it is highly treatable and often curable. Types of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer NSCLC is classified into three main types based on cell structure: Adenocarcinoma: Most common type. Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Originates in the flat cells lining the airways. Large Cell Carcinoma: Characterised by large, abnormal cells. All types can be detected ...

  Recent advancements in the treatment of gonorrhoea have emerged with the introduction of a new oral antibiotic, gepotidacin. This drug has shown promising results in clinical trials, effectively combating the increasingly resistant strains of gonorrhoea. Health authorities express concern over the rising difficulty in treating this sexually transmitted infection. About Gonorrhoea Gonorrhoea is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacterium, Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It spreads through unprotected sexual activities, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Many women may not exhibit symptoms, making it challenging to detect early. Untreated gonorrhoea can lead to severe health complications, including infertility and chronic pelvic pain, and increases the risk of HIV transmission. Gepotidacin Clinical Trial The clinical trial involved 628 participants diagnosed with uncomplicated gonorrhoea. Participants were divided into two groups – one received two doses of oral gepoti...

  Climate change is increasingly impacting various sectors, including healthcare. Recent studies highlight how climate instability threatens the global blood supply chain. Researchers warn that rising temperatures and extreme weather events jeopardise blood safety and availability. This situation poses challenges for hospitals and health services reliant on stable blood donations. The Blood Supply Chain The blood supply chain is complex. It involves several steps – identifying eligible donors, collecting blood, transporting it, testing for diseases, and distributing it to medical facilities. Each step requires infrastructure and reliable energy. Climate change threatens these components, leading to potential disruptions. Extreme Weather Events Extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, and cyclones are becoming more frequent. These events limit donor mobility and disrupt blood storage and transportation. For example, Tropical Cyclone Alfred in Australia caused reduction in...

  In recent years, the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) has escalated in the WHO African Region. A report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa assessed the PEN-Plus approach that aims to decentralise critical health services for severe NCDs. Since its adoption, twenty African countries have improved access to essential care, addressing public health threat. About Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) NCDs are chronic diseases that are not caused by infectious agents. They progress slowly and result from a mix of genetic, environmental, and behavioural factors. Common NCDs include heart disease, diabetes , and cancers. Globally, NCDs account for 71% of deaths. In Africa, they represent portion of mortality, ranging from 27% to 88%. The PEN-Plus Approach The PEN-Plus model complements the WHO’s Package of Essential Non-communicable Disease interventions. It focuses on managing severe NCDs at the primary healthcare level. Originally developed in Rwanda, PEN-Plu...

  Signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) is a rare and aggressive form of cancer primarily affecting the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the stomach. This cancer is characterised by its distinct cell appearance, resembling a signet ring under a microscope. Despite being a subtype of adenocarcinoma, SRCC poses treatment challenges due to its rapid progression and tendency to metastasise, particularly to the peritoneum. Nature and Prevalence of SRCC SRCC is a subtype of colorectal cancer (CRC) and is known for its aggressive behaviour. Globally, SRCC accounts for about 1% of all CRC cases. However, its prevalence is notably higher in India, where it affects a disproportionately larger number of younger individuals. In central and northern India, SRCC is becoming increasingly common, posing public health challenge. Diagnosis and Challenges Diagnosing SRCC can be difficult due to its aggressive nature and late presentation. Patients often receive a diagnosis at advanced stages, making...

  Recently, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) acknowledged Type 5 diabetes as a distinct health condition during the World Diabetes Congress held in Bangkok. The condition, primarily affecting malnourished individuals, had remained largely unrecognised despite its global impact. About Type 5 Diabetes Type 5 diabetes is a malnutrition-related form of diabetes. It typically affects lean and malnourished teenagers and young adults. The condition is prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Asia and Africa. Approximately 20 to 25 million people are estimated to be affected worldwide. Unlike Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes , Type 5 diabetes is marked by a deep defect in insulin secretion rather than insulin resistance. Historical Context The condition was first documented in Jamaica in 1955 as J-type diabetes. In the 1960s, it was reported in undernourished populations across India, Pakistan, and parts of sub-Saharan Africa . The World Health Organization (WHO)...

  The rise in notified paediatric tuberculosis (TB) cases in India has become public health concern. Recent data indicates a 38 per cent increase in cases among children aged up to 14 years from 2020 to 2024. This surge is attributed to various factors, including malnutrition and the lingering effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Overview of Paediatric Tuberculosis Paediatric TB refers to tuberculosis diagnosed in children aged 14 years or younger. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), children represent a substantial portion of the overall TB burden in India. The incidence has risen sharply, with cases increasing from 102,090 in 2020 to 141,182 in 2024. Factors Contributing to Increased Cases Several factors contribute to the rising incidence of paediatric TB. Malnutrition is a key issue, weakening children’s immune systems. The transmission of TB from adult family members also plays role. Additionally, the Covid-19 pandemic has had indirect effects, with treatments dur...

  The Government of India is intensifying efforts to combat cervical cancer through the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme. The Union Health Ministry is set to enhance the capacity of frontline workers involved in the vaccination process. Recent discussions and strategies have emerged following the government’s commitment in the 2024 interim budget to promote vaccination among girls aged 9 to 14. This initiative is crucial as India accounts for proportion of global cervical cancer cases. About Human Papillomavirus (HPV) HPV is a group of over 200 viruses. More than 40 types can be transmitted through sexual contact. Certain HPV types lead to genital warts, while others are linked to cancers. Specifically, HPV types 16 and 18 are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases. The virus is the most common sexually transmitted infection worldwide, often asymptomatic. Persistent infection can lead to cancer. Importance of HPV Vaccination The HPV vaccine is essen...

  Recent research has brought into light the simultaneous occurrence of malaria and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in Nigeria. The study, led by Faith Eshofonie from the Federal University of Technology, demonstrated regional disparities in co-infection rates. The south-south and southeast regions reported higher rates, while the northwest showed lower co-morbidity despite a higher prevalence of malaria. This situation calls for integrated health strategies that encompass education, hygiene practices, and regular health screenings. About Soil-Transmitted Helminths Soil-transmitted helminths are parasitic worms that infect approximately 1.5 billion people globally. They thrive in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in communities lacking access to clean water and sanitation. Major species include Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm), Trichuris trichiura (whipworm), and hookworms (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale). These infections primarily spread thr...

  Recent developments in the study of blackflies have implications for managing river blindness, a serious parasitic disease. A team from the Zoological Survey of India has published findings in an international journal that highlight the importance of accurate species identification for effective control strategies. About River Blindness River blindness, or onchocerciasis, is caused by the parasitic worm Onchocerca volvulus. The disease is transmitted through the bites of infected blackflies, which breed in fast-flowing rivers. Symptoms include severe itching, skin conditions, and potential blindness. It is a leading cause of infection-related blindness globally. The Role of Blackflies Blackflies, particularly the Simuliidae family, are small and often go unnoticed. They are the primary vectors for transmitting the river blindness parasite. Accurate identification of blackfly species is essential. There are over 2,400 species of Simuliidae, but only a few transmit O. volvulus. DN...

  Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) is a rare but aggressive form of leukaemia. This blood cancer arises from a genetic mutation involving the fusion of PML and RARA genes. The result is decrease in white blood cells and platelets. This reduction hampers the body’s ability to fight infections and manage bleeding. APL can cause severe internal bleeding, particularly in vital organs. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to death within days. However, early diagnosis and treatment can lead to high cure rates. About APL Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) is classified as a subtype of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). It represents 10-15% of newly diagnosed AML cases. The median age for diagnosis is approximately 34 years. The male-to-female ratio is about 1.5:1. Symptoms include sudden bleeding from the gums and nose, fatigue, fever, and bone pain. These symptoms can mimic other conditions, complicating diagnosis. Diagnostic Challenges Current diagnostic tests for APL are time-consum...

  The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its first-ever reports about the serious shortage of medicines and tests for dangerous fungal infections . This concern is particularly pressing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The reports highlight the urgent need for new research and development to fix these problems. Fungal Infections Fungal infections are becoming a public health concern. Common ones like candida—which causes mouth and vaginal infections—are getting harder to treat because antifungal resistance. These infections mostly affect people who are already very sick or have weak immune systems, such as those getting cancer treatment, living with HIV, or who have had organ transplants. Fungal infections range from superficial to invasive diseases. Invasive fungal diseases (IFDs) account for over 6.5 million infections and approximately 3.8 million deaths worldwide each year. The mortality rate for IFDs can exceed 50% despite treatment. Antifungal Treatment ...

  Neuroscientists have observed for the first time how structures deep in the brain are activated when the brain becomes aware of its own thoughts, known as conscious perception 1 . The brain is constantly bombarded with sights, sounds and other stimuli, but people are only ever aware of a sliver of the world around them — the taste of a piece of chocolate or the sound of someone’s voice, for example. Researchers have long known that the outer layer of the brain, called the cerebral cortex, plays a part in this experience of being aware of specific thoughts. The involvement of deeper brain structures has been much harder to elucidate, because they can be accessed only with invasive surgery. Designing experiments to test the concept in animals is also tricky. But studying these regions would allow researchers to broaden their theories of consciousness beyond the brain’s outer wrapping, say researchers. “The field of consciousness studies has evoked a lot of criticism and scepticis...

  Recently, the Union Health Ministry released the national guidelines on medical oxygen management and announced a national capacity building programme. The National Capacity Building Programme on Oxygen Management, led by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with AIIMS, New Delhi, aims to enhance the management of medical oxygen across healthcare facilities in India. The programme is a response to the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly regarding oxygen supply and infrastructure. National Guidelines on Medical Oxygen Management The National Guidelines on Medical Oxygen Management guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for the effective procurement, storage, and administration of medical oxygen . They focus on ensuring patient safety, improving clinical outcomes, and preparing for emergencies. The guidelines aim to standardise practices across healthcare facilities. Training Master Trainers The capacity building programme aims t...

  The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has advanced its efforts in combating tuberculosis (TB) through genomic sequencing initiative. As of March 2025, DBT has sequenced 10,000 samples of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, part of a larger goal to sequence 32,500 samples. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of drug-resistant TB and its unique genomic features in India. The project aligns with the government’s ambition to eradicate TB by 2025, ahead of the World Health Organisation’s target of 2030. Dare2eraD TB Programme Launched on World TB Day in March 2022, the Dare2eraD TB programme focuses on eradicating TB through genomic research. It is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Science & Technology and the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The initiative includes the Indian Tuberculosis Genomic Surveillance Consortium (InTGS), which plays a very important role in monitoring TB strains. Objectives of the Programme The primary objectives are: To sequence ...