Cell Biologist

  Recent research reveals that modern-day Indians likely descend from three ancestral groups linked to Iranian and Central Asian cultures. This study published in the journal Cell provides vital information about the genetic history of India, denoting the complex interactions of migration and social practices over thousands of years. Ancestral Groups The study identifies three main ancestral groups. These are Neolithic Iranian farmers, Eurasian Steppe pastoralists, and South Asian hunter-gatherers. Each group contributed to the genetic makeup of contemporary Indians. These contributions reflect ancient migrations that shaped the population’s genetic diversity. Migration Patterns Genetic evidence suggests that the initial migration to India occurred around 50,000 years ago from Africa. This migration laid the foundation for the genetic structure of Indian populations. Subsequent gene flow from Neanderthals and Denisovans added 1-2 per cent to the genetic composition of modern India...

  The Nipah virus poses public health threat due to its high mortality rate and potential for outbreaks. Recently, India made a major advancement in combating this virus. The National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune developed a portable test kit that can detect the Nipah virus within minutes. This innovation is crucial for high-risk areas like Kerala and West Bengal, where outbreaks have been frequent. Overview of Nipah Virus Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus primarily transmitted from fruit bats to humans. It can also spread through contaminated food or direct human contact. The virus causes severe illnesses ranging from mild respiratory symptoms to fatal encephalitis. The mortality rate can exceed 50%, making it one of the most lethal viral diseases. Recent Developments in Testing The newly developed LAMP-based point-of-care test kit provides rapid results without needing a laboratory. This kit is expected to enhance early detection and containment efforts in outbreak-prone r...

  Recent studies have brought into light the potential of Favipiravir as a treatment for the Chandipura virus (CHPV). Conducted by the National Institute of Virology in Pune, these preclinical trials indicate that Favipiravir can reduce viral load and improve survival rates in infected animals. The Chandipura virus is endemic to central India and primarily affects children, leading to severe symptoms such as high fever and seizures. About the Chandipura Virus The Chandipura virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family and is transmitted by sandflies. It was first identified in 1965 in Nagpur, Maharashtra. The virus causes encephalitis, leading to inflammation of the brain. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, altered consciousness, and convulsions. Transmission and Vector CHPV is primarily transmitted by female Phlebotomine sandflies, which are most active during the early monsoon season. Studies have indicated that certain mosquito species, particularly Aedes aegypti, could also trans...

  In recent years, India has made strides in addressing sickle cell disease (SCD) through newborn screening initiatives. A study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) brought into light the effectiveness of early diagnosis and treatment. This research, spanning from 2019 to 2024, tested over 63,000 newborns across high-prevalence areas. The findings suggest that early intervention can drastically reduce mortality rates associated with SCD. Importance of Newborn Screening Newborn screening for SCD is crucial. SCD is a serious inherited blood disorder that, if undetected, can lead to severe health complications. These include infections, anaemia, and strokes in infants. Early detection allows for timely treatment, improving the quality of life for affected children. Study Overview The ICMR study involved seven centres in India, focusing on tribal and high-risk regions. It aimed to identify cases of SCD and assess the effectiveness of early interventions. The st...

  The International Society of Blood Transfusion officially recognised a new blood group system named EMM -negative, also known as Gwada negative. This designation emerged from the unique case of a woman from Guadeloupe who is the only known individual to possess this rare blood type. The discovery puts stress on advancements in transfusion medicine and genetic research. What is Gwada Negative? Gwada negative refers to the EMM-negative blood group system, identified by the absence of the EMM antigen on red blood cells. This antigen is a high-incidence antigen, present in almost all humans. The lack of such a common antigen is medically and has led to the classification of this blood type as the 48th globally recognised system in transfusion science. Discovery Process The identification of the EMM-negative blood type began in 2011 when the woman underwent routine blood tests. Initial attempts to classify her blood were inconclusive due to the lack of technology. In 2019, advancement...

  The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced its first global guideline for managing sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy. This initiative addresses health challenge impacting both mothers and infants. SCD is characterised by crescent-shaped red blood cells that can obstruct blood flow, leading to severe health complications. The risks associated with SCD escalate during pregnancy, increasing the likelihood of maternal mortality and obstetric complications. About Sickle Cell Disease Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder. It causes red blood cells to become rigid and shaped like sickles. This abnormality can lead to blockages in blood vessels. Symptoms include severe pain, anaemia, and increased susceptibility to infections. The prevalence of SCD is particularly high in malaria-endemic regions, with sub-Saharan Africa accounting for the majority of cases. Risks During Pregnancy Pregnancy poses heightened risks for women with SCD. These women face ly incre...

  The 78th World Health Assembly made history by unanimously adopting the resolution titled ‘Skin diseases as a global public health priority’. This resolution marks shift in recognising skin health as a critical aspect of global public health. The decision reflects years of advocacy and the need for better funding and attention towards skin diseases, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Historical Context The resolution emerged from years of advocacy led by dermatologists and organisations like the International League of Dermatologic Societies (ILDS). Skin diseases affect approximately 1.9 billion people worldwide, yet they have been historically neglected. This resolution aims to change the narrative, denoting skin health as integral to human dignity and social equity. Voices from Low-Resource Settings Experts from regions with limited dermatologic care stress the urgency of this initiative. There is a critical need for increased funding and integration of s...