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...