The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2024

 N

obel Prize in Chemistry 2024 is about pro￾teins, life’s ingenious chemical tools. David Baker 

has succeeded with the almost impossible feat 

of building entirely new kinds of proteins. Demis 

Hassabis and John Jumper have developed an AI 

model to solve a 50-year-old problem: predicting 

proteins’ complex structures. These discoveries 

hold enormous potential. 

The diversity of life testifes to proteins’ amazing capacity 

as chemical tools. They control and drive all the chemi￾cal reactions that together are the basis of life. Proteins 

also function as hormones, signal substances, antibodies 

and the building blocks of diferent tissues. 

“One of the discoveries being recognised this year 

concerns the construction of spectacular proteins. The 

other is about fulflling a 50-year-old dream: predicting 

protein structures from their amino acid sequences. 

Both of these discoveries open up vast possibilities,” 

says Heiner Linke, Chair of the Nobel Committee for 

Chemistry.

Proteins generally consist of 20 diferent amino acids, 

which can be described as life’s building blocks. In 2003, 

David Baker succeeded in using these blocks to design 

a new protein that was unlike any other protein. Since 

then, his research group has produced one imaginative 

protein creation after another, including proteins that 

can be used as pharmaceuticals, vaccines, nanomaterials 

and tiny sensors. 

The second discovery concerns the prediction of protein 

structures. In proteins, amino acids are linked together 

in long strings that fold up to make a three-dimensional 

structure, which is decisive for the protein’s function. 

Since the 1970s, researchers had tried to predict protein 

structures from amino acid sequences, but this was 

notoriously difcult. However, four years ago, there was 

a stunning breakthrough.

In 2020, Demis Hassabis and John Jumper presented an 

AI model called AlphaFold2. With its help, they have 

been able to predict the structure of virtually all the 200 

million proteins that researchers have identifed. Since 

their breakthrough, AlphaFold2 has been used by more 

than two million people from 190 countries. Among 

a myriad of scientifc applications, researchers can 

now better understand antibiotic resistance and create 

images of enzymes that can decompose plastic.

Life could not exist without proteins. That we can now 

predict protein structures and design our own proteins 

Nobel Prize 2024 in medicine for their groundbreaking discovery of microRNA and its crucial role in post-transcriptional gene regulation.

 

Tiny RNAs with profound physiological importance

Gene regulation by microRNA, first revealed by Ambros and Ruvkun, has been at work

for hundreds of millions of years. This mechanism has enabled the evolution of

increasingly complex organisms. We know from genetic research that cells and tissues

do not develop normally without microRNAs. Abnormal regulation by microRNA can

contribute to cancer, and mutations in genes coding for microRNAs have been found in

humans, causing conditions such as congenital hearing loss, eye and skeletal disorders.

Mutations in one of the proteins required for microRNA production result in the DICER1

syndrome, a rare but severe syndrome linked to cancer in various organs and tissues.

Ambros and Ruvkun’s seminal discovery in the small worm C. elegans was unexpected,

and revealed a new dimension to gene regulation, essential for all complex life form.

🧀🍞🦠Microbial fermented food festival 🥮

 

Chandipura Virus: A Deadly Threat

 

Introduction

The Chandipura virus (CHPV) is an emerging pathogen that has garnered attention due to its rapid and often fatal impact on infected individuals. Discovered in 1965 in the village of Chandipura in Maharashtra, India, this virus belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, the same family that includes the rabies virus. Despite its relatively obscure status in global health discourse, CHPV has caused several outbreaks in India, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality, particularly among children.

The Virus and Its Transmission

CHPV is an RNA virus and exhibits a bullet-shaped structure characteristic of the Rhabdoviridae family. It primarily targets the central nervous system, leading to encephalitis—a severe inflammation of the brain. The virus is believed to be transmitted through the bite of infected sandflies, specifically Phlebotomus species. Sandflies are vectors known for spreading other diseases like leishmaniasis, making them a significant public health concern.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The incubation period for CHPV is relatively short, typically ranging from two to five days. Initial symptoms include high fever, headaches, vomiting, and seizures, quickly progressing to more severe neurological manifestations such as altered mental status, coma, and, in many cases, death. The rapid progression of the disease often leaves little time for effective medical intervention.

Diagnosis of CHPV can be challenging due to its symptomatic similarities with other viral encephalitis infections. Laboratory tests, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), are essential for confirming the presence of the virus. These tests detect viral RNA and specific antibodies against CHPV, respectively.

Treatment and Prevention

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for CHPV. Management of the disease primarily focuses on supportive care to alleviate symptoms and maintain vital functions. This includes measures like controlling fever, preventing seizures, and ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition. Given the high mortality rate associated with CHPV, early detection and supportive care are crucial in improving patient outcomes.

Preventive measures are vital in controlling the spread of CHPV. Reducing sandfly populations through insecticide use, improving sanitation, and using protective measures such as bed nets and repellents can significantly decrease the risk of transmission. Public health education is also essential to inform communities about the risks and preventive strategies associated with CHPV.

Research and Future Directions

Ongoing research is crucial to understand the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and potential treatment options for CHPV better. Scientists are exploring vaccine development, antiviral drugs, and more effective diagnostic tools. Additionally, studies on the ecological aspects of sandfly vectors and their control can provide valuable insights into preventing future outbreaks.

The Chandipura virus remains a significant public health threat, particularly in regions where sandflies are prevalent. While progress has been made in understanding this virus, much work remains to be done to develop effective treatments and preventive measures. Increased awareness, research, and public health initiatives are essential in combating this deadly virus and mitigating its impact on vulnerable populations.

Structure Chandipura virus

(https://nmji.in/neuropathogenesis-by-chandipura-virus-an-acute-encephalitis-syndrome-in-india/)

References

• Mishra, A. C., et al. (2001). Chandipura virus: A major cause of acute encephalitis in children in Andhra Pradesh, India. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 7(6), 992-993.
• Rao, B. L., et al. (2003). Chandipura virus: A newly recognized cause of acute encephalitis syndrome in India. Clinical Infectious Diseases, 36(7), 917-921.
• Pavri, K. M. (1986). Clinical, virological, and serological aspects of Chandipura virus infection. Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 80(2), 197-202.

The Brain-Eating Amoeba : Naegleria fowleri Infection

Naegleria fowleri, commonly referred to as the "brain-eating amoeba," is a free-living, thermophilic amoeba found in warm freshwater environments. It is infamous for causing a rare but often fatal brain infection called primary amebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Naegleria fowleri, including its biology, transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Biology and Habitat:

Naegleria fowleri is a single-celled organism that thrives in warm freshwater bodies such as lakes, hot springs, and poorly maintained swimming pools. The amoeba has three life stages:

Cyst Stage: During unfavorable conditions, the amoeba encysts, becoming a hardy, dormant form that can survive extreme environments.

Trophozoite Stage: This is the feeding, replicating, and infective form of the amoeba. It consumes bacteria and other organic matter in the water.

Flagellate Stage: In response to certain stimuli, trophozoites can transform into a temporary, motile form with two flagella, aiding in their movement.

Transmission:

Naegleria fowleri infection occurs when contaminated water enters the body through the nose, typically during activities such as swimming, diving, or using inadequately chlorinated recreational water. The amoeba then travels up the olfactory nerve to the brain, where it causes severe inflammation and destruction of brain tissue.

Symptoms:

The onset of PAM symptoms usually occurs within 1 to 9 days after exposure. Early symptoms are nonspecific and can mimic bacterial meningitis, making early diagnosis challenging. Initial symptoms include:

• Severe headache
• Fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stiff neck
• As the infection progresses, more severe neurological symptoms develop, such as:
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Coma

Diagnosis:

Diagnosing PAM requires a high index of suspicion, especially in patients with a history of recent freshwater exposure. Diagnostic methods include:

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis: Examination of CSF obtained via lumbar puncture can reveal elevated white blood cell counts, elevated protein levels, and low glucose levels. The presence of motile trophozoites in a wet mount preparation is a definitive indicator.

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR): This molecular technique can detect Naegleria fowleri DNA in CSF samples with high sensitivity and specificity.

Imaging: CT scans or MRI of the brain can show cerebral edema and other abnormalities indicative of PAM.

Treatment

The prognosis for PAM is generally poor, with a mortality rate exceeding 97%. However, early diagnosis and aggressive treatment can improve survival chances. Treatment options include:

Amphotericin B: This antifungal agent is the cornerstone of PAM treatment. It can be administered intravenously and intrathecally (directly into the spinal canal).

Miltefosine: Originally developed as an anti-leishmanial drug, miltefosine has shown promise in treating PAM due to its amoebicidal properties.

Other Medications: Additional drugs like rifampin, azithromycin, fluconazole, and dexamethasone are often used in combination with the primary treatments to enhance efficacy and manage inflammation.

Prevention

Given the high fatality rate of PAM, prevention is crucial. Recommendations to reduce the risk of Naegleria fowleri infection include:

• Avoid swimming or diving in warm freshwater bodies, especially during hot weather when water temperatures are elevated.
• Use nose clips or keep your head above water when engaging in water-related activities in freshwater environments.
• Ensure that swimming pools and hot tubs are adequately chlorinated and well-maintained.
• Avoid disturbing sediment in shallow, warm freshwater areas, as this can release amoebas into the water column.
  

Naegleria fowleri's life-cycle

Admission For Academic Year 2024-25

 

🔬National Science Day 2024 🔬:Seminar: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

 

Shri Vyankatesh Arts, Commerce & Science College,

Deulgaon Raja

Department of Microbiology

Seminar: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

Date: February 28, 2024

Occasion: National Science Day-2024

Theme: Indigenous Technologies for Viksit Bharat

Resource Person: Dr. U. P. Mogle Professor & Head, Dept. of Botany, J. E. S College, Jalna)

President: Mr. B.U. Kale (Assistant Professor & Head, Department of Chemistry)

Venue: Auditorium, S.V. College, Deulgaon Raja

Glimpses of Seminar: