"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."

- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam

#genetic

Good News

French Company Develops 'Superplants' to Purify Indoor Air 30 Times More Than Regular Houseplants

A small business in France has made a breakthrough in the fight against indoor air pollution by creating genetically-enhanced houseplants that can remove indoor pollutants up to 30 times more effectively than regular houseplants. Neoplants, the company behind this innovation, recognized the need to address the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in households. These compounds, found in items such as paint, treated wood, and household cleaners, can lead to health issues like inflammation and irritation. By modifying the genetic makeup of houseplants, Neoplants have enhanced their natural ability to absorb and process pollutants like formaldehyde. The modified plants no longer store the toxins but instead convert them into plant matter. This breakthrough also improves the plants' microbiome, enabling them to more efficiently absorb and process VOCs. The first product from Neoplants, called the Neo P1, is a Devil's ivy plant that comes with a custom-designed tall stand to optimize its air-cleaning properties. Initial tests conducted by the Ecole Mines-Telecom of Lille University showed that the Neo P1 is equivalent to having 30 regular houseplants in terms of air purification effectiveness. The founders of Neoplants aim to provide a sustainable solution to indoor air pollution while reducing the burden of maintenance for plant owners. The Neo P1 is expected to be available for delivery in August 2024. With the growing awareness of environmental issues and the importance of clean indoor air, these 'superplants' offer a promising solution. By harnessing the power of genetic enhancements, Neoplants is paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future.

8 Nov 2023
Good News

Large Study of 80,000 Migraine Sufferers Uncovers Commonalities That May Lead to Potential Treatment

A groundbreaking study involving 80,000 migraine sufferers has revealed significant breakthroughs in understanding the underlying genetic pathways of this debilitating condition. The research, conducted by an international team led by deCODE Genetics in Iceland, offers hope for potential new treatments for the millions of people affected by migraines. Migraines affect approximately one in five women, one in 16 men, and one in 11 children, with women experiencing attacks three times more frequently. The study analyzed genetic data from over 1.3 million participants, with a focus on the two main subtypes of migraines: migraine with aura and migraine without aura. The findings shed light on specific genes that impact one subtype of migraine over the other, revealing new biological pathways that could be targeted for therapeutic development. The study identified associations with 44 variants, including 12 novel ones. Of particular interest is the discovery of a rare variant in the KCNK5 gene, which confers significant protection against severe migraines and brain aneurysms. This finding suggests a potential common pathway between the two conditions or the misclassification of early brain aneurysms as migraines. The study's lead researcher, Professor Kari Stefansson, highlighted the identification of rare variants and their potential as drug targets for future treatment development. The research opens up new possibilities for personalized therapies that may effectively address different types of migraines.

27 Oct 2023
Good News

The Whys and Hows

Unravelling the Genetic Mystery: Are North Indians of Aryan Descent?

The question of whether North Indians are of Aryan origin has been a subject of debate for many years. The Aryan theory suggests that the ancient Aryans migrated from Central Asia to India thousands of years ago, bringing with them their language, culture, and genetic traits. While there is evidence to support this theory, it remains a contentious issue. Recent genetic studies have shed new light on the question of North Indian origins. Researchers have found that the genetic makeup of North Indians is a complex mixture of several different groups, including indigenous people, migrants from Central Asia, and other regions. While these studies suggest that there is some genetic evidence to support the Aryan migration theory, it is important to note that the genetic makeup of North Indians is not uniform. There is significant genetic diversity within North India, with different regions and communities having distinct genetic profiles. The debate over North Indian origins is an important one, as it has implications for our understanding of the country's history and culture. However, it is important not to reduce the complex history of North India to a single theory or explanation. As our understanding of genetics and human migration continues to evolve, it is likely that our understanding of North Indian origins will also change. However, what is clear is that North India is a diverse and complex region, with a rich history and culture that cannot be reduced to a single theory or explanation.

18 May 2023
The Whys and Hows

Star Citizens

An Inspiring Journey of a Tribal Boy From Gadchiroli Who Becomes a Successful Scientist in the US!

Bhaskar Halami’s life serves as an example of what can be accomplished by sheer effort and resolve. Life was tough in Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district where he was brought up in a tribal community by his parents who could hardly afford one square meal in a day. Today, Halami is working as a senior scientist in the Research and Development section of Sirnaomics Inc, a biopharmaceutical company in Maryland, USA. The company conducts research in genetic medicines while Halami handles RNA synthesis and production.  There was a time in Halami's life when, due to poverty, the family would just consume rice powder cooked in water. This was the case with 90% of his village residents. As luck would have it, Halami’s father got a job as a cook in a school which was 100 km away from their home.  The family shifted there and Halami too enrolled in a school. He very well knew the importance of education and went on to complete his graduation and got a  Master’s in Chemistry as well. Halami was hired in 2003 as an assistant professor at Nagpur's reputed Laxminarayan Institute of Technology (LIT). He pursued a Ph.D. in the United States and focused on DNA and RNA since he saw a lot of potential in this area of research. He now gets a lot of offers from recruiters looking for expertise in the DNA/RNA field. Halami attributes his accomplishment to his hardworking parents who paid for his education even with their meagre salaries. During his visits to India, Halami counsels students about careers and strategies to attain their goals. He does this by visiting schools, ashram schools, colleges, and even by hosting meetings with students at his home.  

18 Nov 2022
Star Citizens

Archives