PG & Research Department of Biochemistry

 mRNA technology has seen significant advancements beyond its initial use in COVID-19 vaccines.  Cancer Vaccines : Researchers are exploring mRNA vaccines tailored to specific tumors, allowing the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells more effectively. Clinical trials are underway for various cancers, including melanoma and breast cancer. Autoimmune Diseases : mRNA is being investigated as a potential treatment for autoimmune disorders. The idea is to use mRNA to encode antigens that could help retrain the immune system to reduce its attack on healthy tissues. Genetic Disorders : Scientists are working on using mRNA to replace or repair defective proteins in genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This approach aims to provide a more direct solution to underlying genetic issues. Infectious Diseases : Beyond COVID-19, mRNA vaccines are in development for diseases like influenza, Zika, and rabies. The platform's flexibility allows for...

  mRNA Technology Advances : Following the success of mRNA vaccines for COVID-19, researchers are exploring mRNA technology for other diseases, including cancer and genetic disorders. This could lead to personalized cancer vaccines tailored to individual tumors. CRISPR Developments : New CRISPR-based techniques are being developed for more precise gene editing, potentially reducing off-target effects. Researchers are also looking into CRISPR for treating genetic diseases like sickle cell anemia. Biomanufacturing : There's growing interest in using microorganisms for sustainable production of chemicals, materials, and fuels. Recent projects focus on engineering microbes to convert waste into valuable products. Synthetic Biology : Advances in synthetic biology are enabling the design of organisms with novel functions, such as bacteria that can produce pharmaceuticals or biofuels from CO2. Cell and Gene Therapies : There are ongoing clinical trials for innovative cell therapies, such ...

  Breast cancer  Breast cancer is a disease where cells in the breast tissue grow uncontrollably. It can occur in both men and women, though it’s much more common in women. Here are some key points about breast cancer: Types: Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) : The most common type, starting in the milk ducts and spreading to surrounding tissue. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) : Begins in the lobules and can also spread. Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) : A non-invasive condition where abnormal cells are found in the ducts but haven't spread. Triple-negative Breast Cancer : Lacks three common receptors (estrogen, progesterone, and HER2) and can be more aggressive. Risk Factors: Gender : Women are at higher risk. Age : Risk increases with age. Family History : Genetics can play a role; BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations increase risk. Lifestyle Factors : Obesity, alcohol consumption, and lack of physical activity can contribute. Symptoms: A lump or mass in the breast or underarm. Cha...

 Autoimmune diseases Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. There are many types, each affecting different parts of the body. Common examples include: Rheumatoid Arthritis : Affects joints and can lead to pain and deformity. Lupus (SLE) : Can affect multiple organs, causing fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes. Multiple Sclerosis : Affects the nervous system, leading to communication issues between the brain and body. Type 1 Diabetes : The immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. Hashimoto's Thyroiditis : Affects the thyroid, leading to hypothyroidism.

 In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a type of assisted reproductive technology (ART) where an egg is fertilized with sperm outside the body. IVF Process: 1. Ovulation Induction: Medications stimulate egg production. 2. Egg Retrieval: Eggs are collected through a minor surgical procedure. 3. Sperm Collection: Sperm sample is provided. 4. Fertilization: Eggs and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish. 5. Embryo Culture: Fertilized eggs (embryos) grow for 3-5 days. 6. Embryo Transfer: One or more embryos are transferred to the uterus. Types of IVF: 1. Conventional IVF: Sperm fertilizes egg naturally. 2. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): Single sperm injected into egg. 3. Donor Egg IVF: Using donated eggs. 4. Donor Sperm IVF: Using donated sperm. 5. Surrogacy IVF: Using a surrogate mother. Indications: 1. Infertility due to:     - Blocked fallopian tubes     - Low sperm count or poor motility     - Endometriosis     - Unexplained infertilit...

 Proper nutrition is crucial for pregnant and lactating women to support fetal growth, maternal health, and milk production. Pregnancy Nutrition: 1. Folic acid (800-1000 mcg/day): Prevents birth defects 2. Iron (27 mg/day): Supports fetal growth and maternal health 3. Calcium (1000 mg/day): Fetal bone development 4. Protein (70-100 g/day): Fetal growth and maternal health 5. Omega-3 fatty acids (200-300 mg/day): Fetal brain and eye development 6. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables: Essential nutrients and fiber Lactation Nutrition: 1. Calcium (1000-1300 mg/day): Milk production and bone health 2. Protein (70-100 g/day): Milk production and maternal health 3. Vitamin A (1200-1300 mcg/day): Milk production and infant vision 4. Vitamin D (600-800 IU/day): Infant bone health 5. Omega-3 fatty acids (200-300 mg/day): Infant brain and eye development 6. Adequate hydration: Supports milk production

 Major Endocrine Glands: 1. Pituitary gland 2. Thyroid gland 3. Adrenal glands 4. Pancreas 5. Ovaries (female) 6. Testes (male) 7. Hypothalamus 8. Pineal gland Functions: 1. Hormone production and regulation 2. Growth and development 3. Metabolism 4. Electrolyte balance 5. Reproduction 6. Stress response 7. Blood pressure control 8. Blood sugar regulation Hormones: 1. Insulin (glucose regulation) 2. Thyroxine (metabolism) 3. Adrenaline (stress response) 4. Estrogen (female reproduction) 5. Testosterone (male reproduction) 6. Growth hormone (growth and development) 7. Cortisol (stress response)