Changing antiviral response with SARS-CoV2 variants
As the SARS-CoV2 evolved, the immune response also changed due to the change in transmissibility and immune evasion of the different SARS-CoV2 variants. The delta variant showed much more severe disease symptoms as compared to omicron. Besides the vaccination and natural immunity generated due to past infections, the immune response also played a crucial role in dictating the disease severity.
Rajesh Pandey’s lab studied the changes in the host immune response in COVID-19 patients affected by variants of concern – including delta and omicron. Using transcriptomics analysis, they found that delta variants could suppress the innate immune response and reduce the antiviral activity like interferon synthesis. While the interferon response was more pronounced in omicron infections that led to early clearance of the virus. Additionally, they also found that zinc finger proteins were expressed that aided the synthesis of interferons. Further studies are needed to understand whether such an effect would be seen in a larger and more diverse population. The lab also plans to study the effect of other viral infections like dengue in individuals whose immune response might have been modulated by SARS-CoV2 infection.
Biocomposites for high molecular weight hyaluronic acid delivery
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the major component of the extracellular matrix, which plays an important role during development, cell migration, and wound healing to name a few. It is one of the major components of synovial fluid and its delivery to the bones is used for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Being biodegradable, HA is also a good agent for the transport of drugs like cancer drugs. Although many methods are present for the delivery of HA to the skin layers like dermis, the delivery of high molecular weight HA (>600 KDa) is challenging. High molecular weight HA has been demonstrated to be better as it is anti-inflammatory as compared to low molecular weight HA which can cause inflammation.
In this study, Munia Ganguli’s lab has synthesized nanocomposites to deliver high molecular HA (HM-HA). They used bioglass that is made up of silicon dioxide (SiO2), calcium oxide (CaO), sodium oxide (Na2O) and phosphorous pentoxide (P2O5). Bioglass has pores which can carry drugs. HM-HA was used to synthesize bioglass using a one step method that did not use a high temperature that could degrade HA, thereby forming bioglass hyaluronic acid (BGHA) nanocomposites. These BGHA nanocomposites were then tested using artificial skin and were found to successfully deliver HA.
The SARS-CoV-2 virus has emerged as a global pandemic, causing a range of respiratory symptoms from mild to severe, including fever, coughing, and shortness of breath. In severe cases of COVID-19, an upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukins-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha, ferritin, and C-reactive protein has been reported. Elevated levels of cytokines contribute to hypoxia respiratory failure, a major factor in acute respiratory distress syndrome. Numerous studies have indicated an association between elevated circulating D-dimer levels and coagulation pathology linked with COVID-19. Corticosteroids have shown positive outcomes in several cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection, suggesting that other anti-hypoxic and anti-thrombotic medicines may have similar effects.
In a clinical study conducted in Dr Bhawana Prashar’s lab, the researchers reported that reduction in the levels of HIF-1 in COVID-19 patients after receiving Adhatoda vasica or VasalAdulsa herbal extracts. Their study suggests that oral medication of Vasa ghan, Guduchi ghan, and Vasa Guduchi ghan can prevent COVID-19 disease progression and serve as effective treatments for COVID-19 patients. All three treatment arms were able to normalize the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and assist in viral clearance. Taken together, these oral medicines could be established as a potential, safe, and efficacious intervention for COVID-19 patients.
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a critical global health concern, threatening the efficacy of medical treatments and the foundation of the modern healthcare system. AMR leads to prolonged illness, increased mortality rates, and higher healthcare costs. The overuse, misuse and irregular usage of antibiotics make microorganisms more likely to evolve resistance. The resistant microorganism enters the environment via several carriers, including workers who work close to livestock, human and animal excreta. In India, antimicrobial agents have been used extensively in agriculture with a projected surge of 67% in food and animal production by the year 2030. These antimicrobial agents are easily accessible to farmers and para-veterinarians, leading to improper usage. In India, various campaigns and policies aim to create awareness about AMR, such as the Redline campaign and the global antibiotic resistance partnership.
This study was conducted in the Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan, the largest state and second-largest livestock producer in India. The study includes individuals of different age groups, including both younger and older farmers reflect agricultural diversity. The finding reveals that many of these farmers lack a good understanding of antibiotics and AMR. The majority of the farmers have limited basic education and while some are aware of antibiotics, they lack awareness of AMR. Additionally, many livestock holders are unaware of government vaccination and antibiotic stewardship programs. The study provides valuable insight into farmers’ behaviour and knowledge gaps, emphasizing the need for proper education, awareness, and policies to promote responsible antibiotic use.