PG & Research Department of Biochemistry

Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial nutrient that plays several important roles in the body. Here are some key points about B12: Functions Red Blood Cell Formation : B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells, helping to prevent anemia. Nerve Health : It supports the maintenance of the myelin sheath, which protects nerves. DNA Synthesis : B12 is vital for proper DNA formation and cell division. Energy Production : It aids in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates for energy. Sources Animal Products : Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy are primary sources. Fortified Foods : Some plant-based foods and cereals are fortified with B12. Supplements : Available in various forms, including tablets, sublinguals, and injections. Deficiency A deficiency can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, nerve problems (tingling or numbness), and cognitive difficulties. Vegans and vegetarians are at higher risk since B12 is primarily found in animal products. R...

  A medicinal plant, also known as an herbal medicine, is a plant or plant part that is used to treat or prevent disease, or to promote general health:        Definition A medicinal plant is a plant whose parts are used as a medicine to treat a condition or disease.   Uses Medicinal plants are used in traditional and conventional medicine, as well as in cosmetics, food supplements, and other natural health products.   History The use of medicinal plants dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their use in Egypt, Greece, China, and India. Safety Some medicinal plants contain dangerous substances and should be used carefully. Herbal supplements are not regulated by the FDA and have not been tested in clinical trials. Interactions Herbal supplements can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines and cause adverse drug reactions. Symptoms  If you experience nausea, dizziness, headache, swelling, upset stomach, or breathing dif...

  Pigeon droppings can contain diseases that can make people sick, including: Cryptococcosis A fungal disease that can cause meningitis or a chest infection. It's found in soil contaminated by pigeon droppings, especially in areas where pigeons roost or nest. People with compromised immune systems are at higher risk of infection. Histoplasmosis A fungal disease caused by breathing in the fungus that grows in pigeon droppings. Symptoms include fever, fatigue, and chest pains, but most infections are mild or have no symptoms. People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of infection. Psittacosis A flu-like illness that's usually mild in humans, but can rarely cause serious illness. Salmonella A bacterial infection that can cause diarrhea. People can become infected by breathing in dust or water droplets that contain contaminated bird droppings Wet down the work area to prevent dust from spreading Contain the area with plastic sheeting before using a...

  Immunology   Immunology is  the study of the immune system and its function a nd is a branch of medical and biological sciences.   It covers a wide range of topics, including: Structure and function: How the immune system works Disorders: What happens when the immune system doesn't function properly Blood banking: How blood is banked Immunization: How people are immunized Edward Jenner is credited with the origins of immunology after he discovered that cowpox protected against smallpox in 1796. He called this procedure vaccination, which is still used today. Impact on other diseases Immune responses can contribute to the development of many common disorders, including metabolic, cardiovascular, and neurodegenerative conditions. Influence of other medical specialties Immunology has been influenced by other medical specialties, such as transfusion and transplantation medicine . Impact of sex hormones Sex hormones can affect the immune system,...

  MUTAGENESIS Mutagenesis is the process through which genetic mutations are induced or occur spontaneously in an organism's DNA. These mutations can lead to changes in the structure or function of proteins, and they play a crucial role in evolution, development, and disease. 1. Types of Mutagenesis Spontaneous Mutagenesis: Occurs naturally due to errors in DNA replication, spontaneous chemical changes, or environmental factors. Induced Mutagenesis: Resulting from exposure to external agents (mutagens) that increase the rate of mutations. This includes: Chemical Mutagens: Substances that cause mutations through chemical reactions, such as base analogs, alkylating agents, and intercalating agents. Physical Mutagens: Environmental factors like ultraviolet (UV) light and ionizing radiation (X-rays, gamma rays) that can cause DNA damage. Biological Mutagens: Some viruses can integrate their genetic material into the host DNA, leading to mutations. 2. Mechanisms of Mutagenesis Poin...

Medicinal Plants   Medicinal plants have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are gaining recognition in modern healthcare for their therapeutic properties. Here’s an overview: Medicinal Plants and Their Uses Tulsi (Holy Basil) Uses : Adaptogen, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial. Benefits : Supports immune function, reduces stress, and may help with respiratory issues. Ashwagandha Uses : Adaptogen, stress relief, anti-anxiety. Benefits : Improves energy levels, reduces cortisol levels, and supports overall vitality. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Active Compound : Curcumin. Uses : Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant. Benefits : May help in managing arthritis, improving digestion, and supporting liver health. Ginger Uses : Anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, digestive aid. Benefits : Effective for motion sickness, nausea, and reducing muscle pain. Garlic (Allium sativum) Uses : Antimicrobial, cardiovascular health. Benefits : May lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels,...

  Recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology Recombinant DNA (rDNA) technology involves combining DNA from different sources to create new genetic combinations. This powerful tool has revolutionized biotechnology, medicine, and agriculture. Here’s an overview: Key Concepts of Recombinant DNA Technology Basic Principles : DNA Isolation : Extracting DNA from organisms. Cutting DNA : Using restriction enzymes to cut DNA at specific sequences, creating "sticky ends" for easy joining. Ligation : Joining the DNA fragments together using DNA ligase, forming a recombinant molecule. Vectors : Vectors are DNA molecules used to carry foreign genetic material into a host cell. Common vectors include plasmids, bacteriophages, and yeast artificial chromosomes (YACs). Transformation : The process of introducing the recombinant DNA into host cells (e.g., bacteria, yeast, or plant cells) so they can replicate and express the new genetic material. Selection and Screening : Selecting transformed cells t...