Artificial intelligence is transforming healthcare, accelerating drug discovery, improving disease detection, and helping develop vaccines faster than ever before. But a groundbreaking new study has revealed another capability that is raising serious questions worldwide.

Scientists have successfully used AI to design virus genomes under tightly controlled laboratory conditions. Researchers say the goal was to improve virus surveillance, vaccine research, and scientific understanding—not to create dangerous pathogens. However, the breakthrough has sparked concerns about biosecurity and the potential misuse of advanced AI in synthetic biology.

AI Designs Viruses? Scientists Reveal Shocking Breakthrough | Medical Revolution or Global Threat?

Can reducing sugar intake during early childhood lower the risk of dementia later in life?

A new study published in the journal Neurology suggests that limiting sugar consumption during the first two years of life may be linked to a significantly lower risk of developing dementia in adulthood.

Researchers from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology analyzed data from more than 64,000 people in the United Kingdom, comparing those born during and after the era of sugar rationing. The findings indicate that individuals exposed to lower sugar intake early in life had a 21–23% lower risk of dementia, with some cases delayed by an average of 2.6 years.

However, experts caution that this is an observational study, meaning it identifies an association rather than proving that sugar directly causes or prevents dementia.

Can Eating Less Sugar in Childhood Reduce Dementia Risk? New Study Reveals Surprising Link

Could Viagra, the widely used drug for erectile dysfunction, become part of the fight against cancer?

A new study suggests that sildenafil, commonly known by its brand name Viagra, may help slow the spread of cancer by limiting the ability of cancer cells to use cholesterol—an essential component that helps them migrate and form new tumors.

Researchers say the drug's anti-metastatic effects could become even stronger when combined with statins, which reduce cholesterol production. The findings, published in the journal Cancer Research, also indicate that patients taking sildenafil showed improved survival rates.

While the research is promising, scientists emphasize that more clinical studies are needed before Viagra can be recommended as a cancer treatment.

Viagra May Help Fight Cancer Spread? Scientists Discover Promising New Use for Sildenafil

Artificial intelligence has been used to develop a "fundamentally new" type of vaccine that could protect against large swathes of viruses and prevent pandemics, say researchers.

The team at the University of Cambridge say it is the first time a vaccine's key component has been designed entirely by AI and then trialled in people.

AI-Designed 'Universal Vaccine' Passes First Human Trial 

A promising new drug is raising hopes for bladder cancer patients by potentially reducing the need for life-changing surgery. Researchers say the treatment could mark a significant step forward in cancer care, offering patients an alternative approach while improving quality of life.

Could this breakthrough transform the future of bladder cancer treatment? Here's what the latest findings reveal.

:ngame-changer for Bladder Cancer Patients?

Cancer is perhaps the most dreaded of all long-term illnesses that come with a very high fatality rate. Now, a group of scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that a common type of mouth bacteria can potentially "melt" certain cancers.&nbsp;

<h2>The bacteria that 'melts' cancer</h2>

The hero of the moment is a bacteria called 'fusobacterium' and, as per a study by Guy's and St Thomas' and King's College London, it works exceptionally well against certain types of cancer.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/lets-talk-about-sex-baby-freud-wasnt-just-about-the-phallus-reveals-new-analysis-of-his-work-744881">'Let's talk about sex baby': Freud wasn't just about the phallus, reveals new analysis of his work</a>

This surprising finding could pave the way for new treatments, particularly for head and neck cancers.

The study, led by Dr Miguel Reis Ferreira, a consultant in head and neck cancers, revealed that "In essence, we found that when you find these bacteria within head and neck cancers, they have much better outcomes."

"The other thing that we found is that in cell cultures, this bacterium is capable of killing cancer."

Researchers were "brutally surprised" by the bacteria's apparent ability to kill cancer cells, prompting further investigation into the biological mechanisms behind this phenomenon.

"What we're finding is that this little bug is causing a better outcome based on something that it's doing inside the cancer. So we are looking for that mechanism at present, and it should be the theme for a new paper in the very short-term future," he added, as reported by The Guardian.

"This research reveals that these bacteria play a more complex role than previously known in their relationship with cancer—that they essentially melt head and neck cancer cells. However, this finding should be balanced by their known role in making cancers such as those in the bowel get worse."

Laboratory studies supported this, showing a dramatic reduction in viable cancer cells after exposure to the bacteria. In some cases, the number of cancer cells dropped by 70 to 99 per cent within a few days.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/two-shots-of-this-injection-every-year-gives-100-percent-prevention-from-hiv-study-744712">Two shots of THIS injection every year gives 100 percent prevention from HIV: study</a>

The research team initially anticipated a different outcome based on previous studies linking fusobacterium to the progression of bowel cancer. However, their findings showed the opposite effect in head and neck cancers. The bacteria seemed to destroy cancer cells swiftly and effectively.

An analysis of patient data from the Cancer Genome Atlas database confirmed these results. Patients with fusobacterium in their cancer had a 65 per cent lower risk of death compared to those without the bacteria. This significant finding suggests that fusobacterium could play a crucial role in future cancer treatments.

Dr Anjali Chander, the study's lead author, described the discovery as a "eureka moment" validated by international colleagues. The research team is now focused on understanding the exact mechanism by which fusobacterium kills cancer cells, with plans to publish more detailed findings soon.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cancer is perhaps the most dreaded of all long-term illnesses that come with a very high fatality rate. Now, a group of scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that a common type of mouth bacteria can potentially "melt" certain cancers.

Cancer is perhaps the most dreaded of all long-term illnesses that come with a very high fatality rate. Now, a group of scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery that a common type of mouth bacteria can potentially "melt" certain cancers. The bacteria that 'melts' cancer The hero of the moment is a bacteria called 'fusobacterium' and, as per a study by Guy's and St Thomas' and King's College London, it works exceptionally well against certain types of cancer. Also read | 'Let's talk about sex baby': Freud wasn't just about the phallus, reveals new analysis of his work This surprising finding could pave the way for new treatments, particularly for head and neck cancers. The study, led by Dr Miguel Reis Ferreira, a consultant in head and neck cancers, revealed that "In essence, we found that when you find these bacteria within head and neck cancers, they have much better outcomes." "The other thing that we found is that in cell cultures, this bacterium is capable of killing cancer." Researchers were "brutally surprised" by the bacteria's apparent ability to kill cancer cells, prompting further investigation into the biological mechanisms behind this phenomenon. "What we're finding is that this little bug is causing a better outcome based on something that it's doing inside the cancer. So we are looking for that mechanism at present, and it should be the theme for a new paper in the very short-term future," he added, as reported by The Guardian. "This research reveals that these bacteria play a more complex role than previously known in their relationship with cancer—that they essentially melt head and neck cancer cells. However, this finding should be balanced by their known role in making cancers such as those in the bowel get worse." Laboratory studies supported this, showing a dramatic reduction in viable cancer cells after exposure to the bacteria. In some cases, the number of cancer cells dropped by 70 to 99 per cent within a few days. Also read | Two shots of THIS injection every year gives 100 percent prevention from HIV: study The research team initially anticipated a different outcome based on previous studies linking fusobacterium to the progression of bowel cancer. However, their findings showed the opposite effect in head and neck cancers. The bacteria seemed to destroy cancer cells swiftly and effectively. An analysis of patient data from the Cancer Genome Atlas database confirmed these results. Patients with fusobacterium in their cancer had a 65 per cent lower risk of death compared to those without the bacteria. This significant finding suggests that fusobacterium could play a crucial role in future cancer treatments. Dr Anjali Chander, the study's lead author, described the discovery as a "eureka moment" validated by international colleagues. The research team is now focused on understanding the exact mechanism by which fusobacterium kills cancer cells, with plans to publish more detailed findings soon. (With inputs from agencies)

'Eureka moment': Scientists discover THIS common mouth bacteria can 'melt' cancer

Scientists have identified a novel method to eliminate cancer cells by using aminocyanine molecules. These molecules, commonly used&nbsp;as synthetic dyes in bioimaging, show a remarkable capability to break apart cancer cell membranes when stimulated by near-infrared light, according to ScienceAlert.

Chemist James Tour from Rice University, who spoke to ScienceAlert,&nbsp;describes this&nbsp;technique as a "whole new generation of molecular machines" – aptly named molecular jackhammers.

In comparison to their predecessors, Feringa-type motors, these molecular jackhammers demonstrate over a million times faster mechanical motion. Moreover, they can be activated with near-infrared light instead of visible light.

The use of near-infrared light holds significant importance, as it facilitates deeper penetration into the body.

This breakthrough could potentially revolutionise the treatment of cancers in bones and organs, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/its-in-your-gut-microbes-in-stomach-may-contribute-to-social-anxiety-disorder-finds-study-674305">Also read |&nbsp;‘It’s in your gut’: Microbes in gut may contribute to social anxiety disorder, finds study</a>

<h2>Impressive results in lab tests and mouse trials</h2>

In experiments conducted on cultured cancer cells, the molecular jackhammer method exhibited a staggering 99 per cent success rate in destroying cells.

Moving from lab settings to living organisms, the approach was tested on mice with melanoma tumours, resulting in half of the animals becoming cancer-free.

Aminocyanine molecules possess a unique structure and chemical properties that synchronise with the right stimulus – near-infrared light.

Also watch |&nbsp;Almost 300,000 women to be given drug to prevent breast cancer

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/almost-300000-women-to-be-given-drug-to-prevent-breast-cancer-656132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

As these molecules move, the electrons within them form plasmons, collective vibrating entities that induce movement throughout the entire molecule.

The plasmons, resembling molecular arms, connect with cancer cell membranes and, through vibrational movements, dismantle them.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/research-team-converts-human-cells-into-bots-that-repaired-tissue-damage-673808">Also read |&nbsp;Research team converts human cells into ‘bots’ that repaired tissue damage</a>

While these findings are in their early stages, the researchers are positive&nbsp;about the potential applications of this biomechanical technique in cancer treatment.

The ongoing exploration of other molecules with similar capabilities marks the next phase of this promising research.

(With inputs from agencies)

Scientists have identified a novel method to eliminate cancer cells by using aminocyanine molecules. These molecules, commonly used as synthetic dyes in bioimaging, show a remarkable capability to break apart cancer cell membranes when stimulated by near-infrared light, according to ScienceAlert.

Scientists have identified a novel method to eliminate cancer cells by using aminocyanine molecules. These molecules, commonly used as synthetic dyes in bioimaging, show a remarkable capability to break apart cancer cell membranes when stimulated by near-infrared light, according to ScienceAlert. Chemist James Tour from Rice University, who spoke to ScienceAlert, describes this technique as a "whole new generation of molecular machines" – aptly named molecular jackhammers. In comparison to their predecessors, Feringa-type motors, these molecular jackhammers demonstrate over a million times faster mechanical motion. Moreover, they can be activated with near-infrared light instead of visible light. The use of near-infrared light holds significant importance, as it facilitates deeper penetration into the body. This breakthrough could potentially revolutionise the treatment of cancers in bones and organs, eliminating the need for invasive surgeries. Also read | ‘It’s in your gut’: Microbes in gut may contribute to social anxiety disorder, finds study Impressive results in lab tests and mouse trials In experiments conducted on cultured cancer cells, the molecular jackhammer method exhibited a staggering 99 per cent success rate in destroying cells. Moving from lab settings to living organisms, the approach was tested on mice with melanoma tumours, resulting in half of the animals becoming cancer-free. Aminocyanine molecules possess a unique structure and chemical properties that synchronise with the right stimulus – near-infrared light. Also watch | Almost 300,000 women to be given drug to prevent breast cancer As these molecules move, the electrons within them form plasmons, collective vibrating entities that induce movement throughout the entire molecule. The plasmons, resembling molecular arms, connect with cancer cell membranes and, through vibrational movements, dismantle them. Also read | Research team converts human cells into ‘bots’ that repaired tissue damage While these findings are in their early stages, the researchers are positive about the potential applications of this biomechanical technique in cancer treatment. The ongoing exploration of other molecules with similar capabilities marks the next phase of this promising research. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find new method which can destroy 99% of cancer cells, eliminate need for invasive surgeries

2023 was a year of medical breakthroughs. As science progresses, scientists around the world are working hard to improve the quality of human life. This year, several notable, exciting medical advancements made headlines. From successful pig kidney transplant&nbsp;into humans to the world's first whole eye transplant, let's rewind to the year's most notable medical breakthroughs.

<h2>World's first whole eye transplant</h2>

In the United States, in November, surgeons performed the world's first transplant of an entire eye. The patient, a 46-year-old military veteran from Arkansas, had survived a work-related high-voltage electrical accident that destroyed the left side of his face, nose, mouth and left eye. In addition to the eye, a partial-face transplant was also done by the team from NYU Langone Health.&nbsp;

"The mere fact that we transplanted an eye is a huge step forward, something that for centuries has been thought about, but it's never been performed," the team lead Dr Eduardo Rodriguez, said at the time.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/yearender-2023-actors-who-made-their-ott-debut-this-year-1701022719315" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/yearender-2023-actors-who-made-their-ott-debut-this-year-1701022719315&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0-N-S3omDAxUyR2wGHchDDjYQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3KT-rKPi5BeVr_3M1gLU7z" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/entertainment/bollywood/yearender-2023-actors-who-made-their-ott-debut-this-year-1701022719315" target="_blank">Yearender 2023: Actors Who Made Their OTT Debut This Year</a>

<h2>First no-rejection kidney transplant</h2>

In September, in the United Kingdom, an eight-year-old Indian-origin girl, Aditi Shankar, became the first child to have gone through a special type of kidney transplant. The transplant was a breakthrough, as it didn't require the little girl&nbsp;to take long-term drugs to stop the potential rejection of the newly transplanted&nbsp;organ.&nbsp;

The little girl's immune system was reprogrammed using stem cells from the donor, Aditi's mother Divya.

<h2>Genetically modified pig kidney survives one month in human body</h2>

In the United States, in August, surgeons transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a brain-dead patient. The organ worked for a record 32 days and could help bridge the significant organ donation gap.

<h2>A kill switch for cancer</h2>

Scientists from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento in California discovered a "kill switch" that could be used to trigger the death of cancer cells. It is called the CAR T-cell therapy, and it involves genetically modifying T cells collected from a patient's blood.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/rewind-2023-top-5-sporting-moments-for-india-1701707420309" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/rewind-2023-top-5-sporting-moments-for-india-1701707420309&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjs2aWK3omDAxWPbGwGHZ-6CKwQFnoECAcQAQ&amp;usg=AOvVaw2alTY_0bw9Qkoru4aDySRl" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/sports/rewind-2023-top-5-sporting-moments-for-india-1701707420309" target="_blank">Rewind 2023: Top 5 Sporting Moments For India</a>

The therapy showed promising results in leukaemia and other 'liquid' cancers, but showed "meagre" success against solid tumours, and breast, bowel, and lung cancers.

<h2>Blood test for detecting depression</h2>

A study by McGill University in Canada analysed blood samples from more than 60 teenagers to identify specific molecules which can be used as markers for depression. This can help in the early detection of teenagers at risk of psychological diseases like depression.

<h2>World's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine</h2>

In May, the US Foods and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. The medicine that took 60 years to develop can safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/yearender-2023-the-fabulous-year-that-taylor-swift-has-had-667924">Yearender 2023: The fabulous year that Taylor Swift has had</a>

<h2>New plant toxin-based antibiotic</h2>

As the world grapples with antibiotic resistance, a group of British, German and Polish scientists discovered a plant toxin that has a unique method of attacking bacteria. The potential new antibiotic has been named albicidin and works differently than existing antibiotic medicines.

<h2>3D printing to rid of invasive surgeries</h2>

In March, researchers from Australia announced that they had invented a snake-like soft robot that can print living cells from the inside of a patient's body. 3D bio-printing is already used for medical procedures. However, this can help eliminate the need for invasive surgeries.

<h2>World's first Alzheimer's treatment</h2>

In June, the US FDA approved Lecanemab (Leqembi), a drug that significantly helped combat the progression of Alzheimer's during clinical trials. It is the first drug that targets the underlying cause of Alzheimer's, slowing down the disease's progress.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/your-anxiety-is-lying-to-you-saying-no-to-plans-isnt-all-that-bad-finds-study-668806">Your anxiety is lying to you! Saying 'no' to plans isn't all that bad, finds study</a>

<h2>CRISPR gene editing for sickle cell disease</h2>

The world's first CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease was given the green light in the UK (in November) and in the US (in December). The therapy called CASGEVY works by correcting faulty haemoglobin genes in a patient's bone marrow stem cells so that they can produce normal, functioning HB cells.

<h2>Artificial liver</h2>

In September, China made the headlines for reportedly developing a stem-cell-based 'artificial liver' that can work outside the human body. A boon for thousands suffering from liver failure, the bio-artificial liver can perform functions such as detoxification and protein synthesis typically carried out by the liver.&nbsp;

<h2>Tiny robot surgeon</h2>

The University of Leeds has developed a tiny robot that can travel deep into the lungs and detect early signs of cancer. It is only 2 millimetres in diameter and is transported into the smallest bronchial tubes using magnets. As per researchers, during testing on a cadaver, the magnetic tentacle robot travelled 37 per cent deeper than standard equipment, that too with significantly less tissue damage.

In 2024, the global community looks forward to many more significant medical advancements, many of which are expected to involve Artificial Intelligence (AI).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

2023 was a year of medical breakthroughs. As science progresses, scientists around the world are working hard to improve the quality of human life. This year, several notable, exciting medical advancements made headlines.

2023 was a year of medical breakthroughs. As science progresses, scientists around the world are working hard to improve the quality of human life. This year, several notable, exciting medical advancements made headlines. From successful pig kidney transplant into humans to the world's first whole eye transplant, let's rewind to the year's most notable medical breakthroughs. World's first whole eye transplant In the United States, in November, surgeons performed the world's first transplant of an entire eye. The patient, a 46-year-old military veteran from Arkansas, had survived a work-related high-voltage electrical accident that destroyed the left side of his face, nose, mouth and left eye. In addition to the eye, a partial-face transplant was also done by the team from NYU Langone Health. "The mere fact that we transplanted an eye is a huge step forward, something that for centuries has been thought about, but it's never been performed," the team lead Dr Eduardo Rodriguez, said at the time. Also read | Yearender 2023: Actors Who Made Their OTT Debut This Year First no-rejection kidney transplant In September, in the United Kingdom, an eight-year-old Indian-origin girl, Aditi Shankar, became the first child to have gone through a special type of kidney transplant. The transplant was a breakthrough, as it didn't require the little girl to take long-term drugs to stop the potential rejection of the newly transplanted organ. The little girl's immune system was reprogrammed using stem cells from the donor, Aditi's mother Divya. Genetically modified pig kidney survives one month in human body In the United States, in August, surgeons transplanted a genetically modified pig kidney into a brain-dead patient. The organ worked for a record 32 days and could help bridge the significant organ donation gap. A kill switch for cancer Scientists from UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center in Sacramento in California discovered a "kill switch" that could be used to trigger the death of cancer cells. It is called the CAR T-cell therapy, and it involves genetically modifying T cells collected from a patient's blood. Also read | Rewind 2023: Top 5 Sporting Moments For India The therapy showed promising results in leukaemia and other 'liquid' cancers, but showed "meagre" success against solid tumours, and breast, bowel, and lung cancers. Blood test for detecting depression A study by McGill University in Canada analysed blood samples from more than 60 teenagers to identify specific molecules which can be used as markers for depression. This can help in the early detection of teenagers at risk of psychological diseases like depression. World's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine In May, the US Foods and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the world's first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. The medicine that took 60 years to develop can safeguard patients 60 years of age and older from lower respiratory tract sickness brought on by RSV. Also read | Yearender 2023: The fabulous year that Taylor Swift has had New plant toxin-based antibiotic As the world grapples with antibiotic resistance, a group of British, German and Polish scientists discovered a plant toxin that has a unique method of attacking bacteria. The potential new antibiotic has been named albicidin and works differently than existing antibiotic medicines. 3D printing to rid of invasive surgeries In March, researchers from Australia announced that they had invented a snake-like soft robot that can print living cells from the inside of a patient's body. 3D bio-printing is already used for medical procedures. However, this can help eliminate the need for invasive surgeries. World's first Alzheimer's treatment In June, the US FDA approved Lecanemab (Leqembi), a drug that significantly helped combat the progression of Alzheimer's during clinical trials. It is the first drug that targets the underlying cause of Alzheimer's, slowing down the disease's progress. Also read | Your anxiety is lying to you! Saying 'no' to plans isn't all that bad, finds study CRISPR gene editing for sickle cell disease The world's first CRISPR-based gene therapy for sickle cell disease was given the green light in the UK (in November) and in the US (in December). The therapy called CASGEVY works by correcting faulty haemoglobin genes in a patient's bone marrow stem cells so that they can produce normal, functioning HB cells. Artificial liver In September, China made the headlines for reportedly developing a stem-cell-based 'artificial liver' that can work outside the human body. A boon for thousands suffering from liver failure, the bio-artificial liver can perform functions such as detoxification and protein synthesis typically carried out by the liver. Tiny robot surgeon The University of Leeds has developed a tiny robot that can travel deep into the lungs and detect early signs of cancer. It is only 2 millimetres in diameter and is transported into the smallest bronchial tubes using magnets. As per researchers, during testing on a cadaver, the magnetic tentacle robot travelled 37 per cent deeper than standard equipment, that too with significantly less tissue damage. In 2024, the global community looks forward to many more significant medical advancements, many of which are expected to involve Artificial Intelligence (AI). (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Let's 'Rewind 2023' to medical breakthroughs that gave the world hope

The trajectory of India's development in health and well-being from 1947 to 2023&nbsp;showcases a remarkable evolution. The nation's endeavours to tackle some of the deadliest diseases and enhance the quality of life for its citizens reflect a story of transformation and growth.

<h2>A triumph in death rate reduction</h2>

One of the most remarkable accomplishments India has achieved post-independence is the substantial reduction in death rate. In 1947, the average life expectancy for an Indian citizen was a mere 32 years.

Fast forward to 2023, and this figure has risen significantly to an impressive 70.19 years. This transformation, endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the progress in human development.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india76-the-effect-of-jay-prakash-narayan-movement-623859">India Independence: The effect of Jay Prakash Narayan movement on the nation</a>

<h2>Infant mortality and child health: A striking improvement</h2>

The United Nations’ data sheds light on India's commendable strides in child health. The infant mortality rate, which stood at 145.6 per 1000 live births in 1947, has seen a remarkable improvement and dropped to 27.695 per 1000 live births in 2023. This splendid improvement underscores the nation’s commitment to ensuring a healthier start for its youngest citizens.

<h2>National initiatives and disease eradication</h2>

India's post-independence journey has been punctuated by the initiation of numerous national-level campaigns aimed at combatting various diseases. From AIDS to tuberculosis and malaria, the Indian government has championed initiatives that have not only saved lives but also demonstrated the nation's proactive approach to public health challenges.

Also watch |&nbsp;Kerala to be renamed Keralam: Why is Indian state govt making this move?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-to-be-renamed-keralam-why-is-indian-state-govt-making-this-move-624156/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Empowering health through national schemes</h2>

The launch of transformative schemes such as the National Health Mission and the National Rural Health Mission has bolstered India’s commitment to enhancing child and maternal health. These initiatives have played a pivotal role in ensuring accessible healthcare services and reducing health disparities across different regions of the country.

India's progress in the field of medical education is another testament to its journey of transformation. There were mere 28 medical colleges in the 1950s but the current count of 612 medical colleges speaks volumes about the nation's dedication to nurturing a skilled healthcare workforce.

India's evolution in the realm of health and development over the years serves as an inspiring example for developing nations across the globe.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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The trajectory of India's development in health and well-being from 1947 to 2023 showcases a remarkable evolution. The nation's endeavours to tackle some of the deadliest diseases and enhance the quality of life for its citizens reflect a story of transformation and growth.

The trajectory of India's development in health and well-being from 1947 to 2023 showcases a remarkable evolution. The nation's endeavours to tackle some of the deadliest diseases and enhance the quality of life for its citizens reflect a story of transformation and growth. A triumph in death rate reduction One of the most remarkable accomplishments India has achieved post-independence is the substantial reduction in death rate. In 1947, the average life expectancy for an Indian citizen was a mere 32 years. Fast forward to 2023, and this figure has risen significantly to an impressive 70.19 years. This transformation, endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the progress in human development. Also read | India Independence: The effect of Jay Prakash Narayan movement on the nation Infant mortality and child health: A striking improvement The United Nations’ data sheds light on India's commendable strides in child health. The infant mortality rate, which stood at 145.6 per 1000 live births in 1947, has seen a remarkable improvement and dropped to 27.695 per 1000 live births in 2023. This splendid improvement underscores the nation’s commitment to ensuring a healthier start for its youngest citizens. National initiatives and disease eradication India's post-independence journey has been punctuated by the initiation of numerous national-level campaigns aimed at combatting various diseases. From AIDS to tuberculosis and malaria, the Indian government has championed initiatives that have not only saved lives but also demonstrated the nation's proactive approach to public health challenges. Also watch | Kerala to be renamed Keralam: Why is Indian state govt making this move? Empowering health through national schemes The launch of transformative schemes such as the National Health Mission and the National Rural Health Mission has bolstered India’s commitment to enhancing child and maternal health. These initiatives have played a pivotal role in ensuring accessible healthcare services and reducing health disparities across different regions of the country. India's progress in the field of medical education is another testament to its journey of transformation. There were mere 28 medical colleges in the 1950s but the current count of 612 medical colleges speaks volumes about the nation's dedication to nurturing a skilled healthcare workforce. India's evolution in the realm of health and development over the years serves as an inspiring example for developing nations across the globe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India Independence | Evolution in health and development: A journey from 1947 to 2023

The hands of a brain-dead woman have offered a new lease of life to a youngster who lost both his hands to electric burns. The life-changing bilateral hand transplant (below elbow) was performed at a private hospital in the Southern Indian city of Chennai, after the limbs of the brain-dead person were flown from Ahmedabad to Chennai, mapping a distance of nearly 1800 kms.

The hands of a brain-dead woman have offered a new lease of life to a youngster who lost both his hands to electric burns. The life-changing bilateral hand transplant (below elbow) was performed at a private hospital in the Southern Indian city of Chennai, after the limbs of the brain-dead person were flown from Ahmedabad to Chennai, mapping a distance of nearly 1800 kms. The recipient had lost both his hands due to high-voltage electrical burns in 2018 and was completely dependent on his mother for daily activities. Confident of undergoing a hand transplant, the youngster had registered with the Transplant Authority of Tamil Nadu (TRANSTAN) and had been waiting for three years. It took a 14-hour-long procedure involving eight plastic surgeons, four orthopedician, a vascular surgeon, four anaesthetists, a nephrologist and 30 paramedical staff. The team was led by Dr. S Selva Seetharaman, HOD & Senior Consultant - Plastic, Aesthetic & reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Global Health City, Chennai. "Handling a case of hand transplants requires the highest levels of precision and medical expertise. With this case, we are happy to have recorded this rare feat of bilateral below elbow hand transplant in the state of Tamil Nadu," Dr. Selva said. Speaking at the felicitation, Vice President of India, Venkaiah Naidu said that this case is a great example to motivate people to step forward and donate organs, especially hands of brain-dead patients and provide a good quality of life to the differently abled. The transplant procedure was successfully carried out on 28th May 2022 and the patient is on the road to recovery, with intensive physiotherapy.

India: Youth successfully undergoes hands transplant in Tamil Nadu hospital

Using an artificial intelligence (AI) network, an Alphabet-owned artificial intelligence research company has published the structures of nearly all proteins, the building blocks of life, of more than 200 million from bacteria to humans.

The publication of all proteins is being hailed as revolutionary for AI as it is being tipped as a potential treasure trove for drug development and evolutionary studies.

AI-powered predictions of the three-dimensional structures of nearly all cataloged proteins known to science have been made by DeepMind, a tool developed by Google’s London-based AI company, and European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), an intergovernmental organization near Cambridge, UK.

The catalog is freely and openly available to the scientific community, through the AlphaFold Protein Structure Database.

Proteins are large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. They do most of the work in cells and are required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs. Hence, they are referred to as the building blocks of life.

Proteins are made up of hundreds or thousands of smaller units called amino acids, which are attached to one another in long chains.

For example, when Covid vaccine was prepared, the biologists analysed the protein of Sars-Cov-2 in order to design antibodies and neutralise the protein’s ability to infect more cells. This three-dimensional information is mostly gathered using cryo-electron microscopes.

“We’re releasing now the structures for the whole protein universe,” Demis Hassabis, founder and CEO of DeepMind, said during a press conference in London.

At the press conference, deputy director general of EMBL Ewan Birney said the DeepMind structure release is “remarkable,” and that “it will make many researchers around the world think about what experiments they can now do.”

“Being able to ‘just download’ the whole prediction set is going to - I am sure - stimulate entirely new research directions. As important is the on-demand ‘oh I am going to make a mutation on my protein, I wonder where it is on the structure’ for ... every known protein,” Birney later said in a tweet.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science-technology/earth-is-suddenly-spinning-faster-than-usual-and-it-can-spell-doom-for-us-502483" hreflang="en">Earth is suddenly spinning faster than usual, and it can spell doom for us</a>

The proteins decoded by AlphaFold comprise a range of organisms from bacteria to plants to vertebrates, including mice, humans and zebrafish.

Kathryn Tunyasuvunakool, a DeepMind research scientist, said it took their AI tool around 10 to 20 seconds to make each protein prediction, reports Science.org.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-tests-positive-for-coronavirus-again-all-you-want-to-know-about-paxlovid-rebound-502457" hreflang="en">‘Paxlovid rebound’: All you want to know know | CDC guideline</a>

She added that the AI company had to work closely with EMBL-EBI to figure out how to present the immense number of structures in the database.

DeepMind says more than 500,000 researchers have already used the database since its launch last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Using an artificial intelligence (AI) network, an Alphabet-owned artificial intelligence research company has published the structures of nearly all proteins, the building blocks of life, of more than 200 million from bacteria to humans.

Using an artificial intelligence (AI) network, an Alphabet-owned artificial intelligence research company has published the structures of nearly all proteins, the building blocks of life, of more than 200 million from bacteria to humans. The publication of all proteins is being hailed as revolutionary for AI as it is being tipped as a potential treasure trove for drug development and evolutionary studies. AI-powered predictions of the three-dimensional structures of nearly all cataloged proteins known to science have been made by DeepMind, a tool developed by Google’s London-based AI company, and European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), an intergovernmental organization near Cambridge, UK. The catalog is freely and openly available to the scientific community, through the AlphaFold Protein Structure Database. Proteins are large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. They do most of the work in cells and are required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body’s tissues and organs. Hence, they are referred to as the building blocks of life. Proteins are made up of hundreds or thousands of smaller units called amino acids, which are attached to one another in long chains. For example, when Covid vaccine was prepared, the biologists analysed the protein of Sars-Cov-2 in order to design antibodies and neutralise the protein’s ability to infect more cells. This three-dimensional information is mostly gathered using cryo-electron microscopes. “We’re releasing now the structures for the whole protein universe,” Demis Hassabis, founder and CEO of DeepMind, said during a press conference in London. At the press conference, deputy director general of EMBL Ewan Birney said the DeepMind structure release is “remarkable,” and that “it will make many researchers around the world think about what experiments they can now do.” “Being able to ‘just download’ the whole prediction set is going to - I am sure - stimulate entirely new research directions. As important is the on-demand ‘oh I am going to make a mutation on my protein, I wonder where it is on the structure’ for ... every known protein,” Birney later said in a tweet. Also read | Earth is suddenly spinning faster than usual, and it can spell doom for us The proteins decoded by AlphaFold comprise a range of organisms from bacteria to plants to vertebrates, including mice, humans and zebrafish. Kathryn Tunyasuvunakool, a DeepMind research scientist, said it took their AI tool around 10 to 20 seconds to make each protein prediction, reports Science.org. Also read | ‘Paxlovid rebound’: All you want to know know | CDC guideline She added that the AI company had to work closely with EMBL-EBI to figure out how to present the immense number of structures in the database. DeepMind says more than 500,000 researchers have already used the database since its launch last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Major scientific breakthrough: Google’s AI firm releases 3D view of protein universe

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