Read Current Affairs
- Why in News?
- Russia’s newly developed mRNA-based vaccine “Enteromix” has shown 100% effectiveness in preclinical trials. Designed to combat cancer, it employs mRNA technology to trigger a targeted immune response. The initial focus is on colorectal cancer, with a fully personalized approach — each dose is created based on the patient’s tumor mutation profile.
- About mRNA Vaccines:
- mRNA (messenger Ribonucleic Acid) vaccines work by delivering genetic instructions that guide cells to produce specific proteins resembling parts of a pathogen (antigens). Encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles, the mRNA enters cells and prompts protein synthesis, which activates antibodies and T-cells to recognize and fight similar threats in the future. COVID-19 mRNA vaccines, for example, trained cells to produce the coronavirus spike protein.
- Challenges:
- mRNA vaccines often require ultra-cold storage, can cause short-term side effects such as fatigue and fever, and have limited long-term safety data due to their relatively recent development.
- Why in News?
- Researchers at the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, have developed innovative cholesterol-based nanomaterials, opening new possibilities for advanced quantum technologies and spintronic applications. These nanostructures could pave the way for next-generation devices with improved data storage, processing, and energy efficiency.
- About Cholesterol:
- Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like lipid in the steroid family, produced naturally by the liver and also derived from animal-based foods. It exists in two main forms:
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) – often termed “bad” cholesterol, as it can accumulate in arteries, increasing cardiovascular risk.
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) – considered “good” cholesterol, as it helps transport excess LDL to the liver for removal.
- Functions:
- Cholesterol is vital for producing hormones, synthesising vitamin D, and forming cell membranes. However, elevated LDL levels can raise the risk of heart disease and stroke, making balanced cholesterol management essential.
- Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like lipid in the steroid family, produced naturally by the liver and also derived from animal-based foods. It exists in two main forms:
- Why in News?
- During the platinum jubilee celebrations of the Engineering Export Promotion Council (EEPC), the President of India called upon citizens and industry leaders to work towards making India a global centre for business, innovation, and knowledge. Highlighting India’s growing role in the world economy, the President emphasised the need for competitiveness, technology adoption, and sustainable practices to strengthen exports.
- About EEPC:
- Founded in 1955 under the Ministry of Commerce, EEPC is the apex body for promoting engineering exports from India. Headquartered and registered in Kolkata, it represents a wide network of exporters, with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) making up about 60% of its membership. Its activities include organising trade fairs, facilitating buyer-seller meets, conducting market research, providing export advisory services, and enabling credit support. EEPC’s mission is to enhance India’s engineering export capabilities and position the country as a leader in global manufacturing and trade.