Tag: immune system

Immunotherapy Drug Spares Cancer Patients From Grisly Surgeries and Harsh Therapies

When a person develops solid tumors in the stomach or esophagus or rectum, oncologists know how to treat them. But the cures often come with severe effects on quality of life. That can include removal of the stomach or bladder, a permanent colostomy bag, radiation that makes patients infertile and lasting damage from chemotherapy.

So a research group at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, using a drug from the pharmaceutical company GSK, tried something different.

The researchers started with a group of 103 people. The trial participants were among the 2 to 3 percent of cancer patients with tumors that should respond to immunotherapy, a drug that overcomes barriers that prevent the immune system from attacking cancers.

But in clinical trials, immunotherapy is not supposed to replace the standard treatments. The researchers, led by Dr. Luis A. Diaz Jr. and Dr. Andrea Cercek, decided to give dostarlimab, an immunotherapy drug, on its own.

The result was stunning, and could bring hope to the limited cohort of patients contending with these cancers.

In 49 of the patients, who had rectal cancer, the tumors disappeared and, after five years, have not recurred. Cancers also vanished for 35 of 54 patients who had other cancers, including in the stomach, esophagus, liver, endometrium, urinary tract and prostate.

Out of all 103 patients, cancers recurred in only five. Three got additional doses of immunotherapy and one, whose tumor recurred in a lymph node, had the lymph node removed. Those four patients so far have no evidence of disease. The fifth patient had additional immunotherapy that made the tumor shrink.

The investigators reported their results Sunday at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research and in a paper published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

The results, said Dr. Bert Vogelstein, an oncologist at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, are “groundbreaking.”

Earlier phases of the drug’s development occurred in his lab, and he has watched its progress with amazement.

“Twenty or 30 years ago, the idea that you could take large tumors of many different organs and treat them without doing surgery would seem like science fiction,” he said. But, he added, the discovery did not spring full blown into the minds of researchers. Instead, he noted, it builds on 40 years of research “starting with very basic science.”

The reason immunotherapy even had a chance against these large tumors is because the patients’ tumors had what is known as mismatch repair mutations in their genes that prevented them from fixing DNA damage. As a result, such tumors are studded with unusual proteins that signal the immune system to destroy them. But tumors put up a shield that blocks immune system attacks. Immunotherapy pierces the shield and allows the immune system to destroy the tumors.

For patients like those in the study, said Dr. Michael Overman, a specialist in gastrointestinal cancer at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, the results show immunotherapy without chemotherapy, radiation treatments or surgeries is a valid treatment “and it is so logical we should be doing it.”

But, for now, that may not be so easy. The drug costs about $11,000 per dose, and patients need nine infusions over six months. In order to get insurance coverage, the drug has to be included in clinical guidelines, sets of recommendations for treatments produced by professional organizations.

It is approved as a treatment for uterine cancers with mismatch repair mutations and is included in clinical guidelines for the treatment of rectal cancer, based on an earlier small study. But patients with other cancers might have trouble getting the drug, Dr. Diaz said. Memorial Sloan Kettering, though, is still recruiting for its clinical trial, so patients who have tumors with mismatched repair mutations and qualify for the study can get the drug free.

For some patients, immunotherapy has been miraculous. It can have side effects — the most common among patients in the study were fatigue, rash and itching. Rarer side effects included lung infections and encephalitis.

Maureen Sideris, 71, of Amenia, N.Y., found out she had cancer after she tried to eat a hamburger.

“It would not go down,” she said. There was some sort of blockage. It turned out to be a tumor at the juncture of her stomach and esophagus.

She went to Sloan Kettering in 2022. Her surgeon told her that she needed surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and that the surgery would be difficult — they might have to take out a piece of her stomach and move her esophagus

But her tumor had a mismatch repair mutation, so she joined the clinical trial. The first infusion was on Oct. 14 of that year. By January, her tumor was gone. Ms. Sideris has one side effect from the treatment — she needs to take medication now to improve how her adrenal glands function. But she says it is worth paying that price to avoid the onerous treatment that would have been in store for her.

“It’s been a journey,” she said. But, she added, she reasoned that she had nothing to lose when she agreed to try immunotherapy.

“I still had surgery as a backup if it didn’t work,” she said.

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April 28, 2025
Scientists Describe Rare Syndrome Following Covid Vaccinations

The Covid-19 vaccines were powerfully protective, preventing millions of deaths. But in a small number of people, the shots may have led to a constellation of side effects that includes fatigue, exercise intolerance, brain fog, tinnitus and dizziness, together referred to as “post-vaccination syndrome,” according to a small new study.

Some people with this syndrome appear to show distinct biological changes, the research found — among them differences in immune cells, reawakening of a dormant virus called Epstein-Barr, and the persistence of a coronavirus protein in their blood.

The study was posted online Wednesday and has not yet been published in a scientific journal. “I want to emphasize that this is still a work in progress,” said Akiko Iwasaki, an immunologist at Yale University who led the work.

“It’s not like this study determined what’s making people sick,” she said, “but it’s the first kind of glimpse at what may be going on within these people.”

Independent experts noted that the findings were not conclusive on their own. Yet the results, from a scientific team known for rigorous work, suggest that post-vaccination syndrome deserves further scrutiny, they said.

“One of the most important things is that we get some attention to really shine a light on this and try to understand exactly what it is,” said John Wherry, director of the Institute for Immunology at the University of Pennsylvania. (Dr. Wherry has previously collaborated with Dr. Iwasaki’s team, but did not participate in this work.)

Thousands of people have said that Covid vaccines harmed them. But the United States’ fragmented health care system complicates detection of uncommon side effects and has provided little clarity on the range of symptoms people might have experienced after a Covid shot.

The patchwork has also made it difficult to compare and collate self-reported anecdotes. The new study is small, and the condition it is studying is “very heterogeneous,” said Dr. Gregory Poland, emeritus editor of the journal Vaccine and president of Atria Research Institute.

“Despite these limitations, they found interesting data that need further study,” he said. “Much larger studies of very carefully defined and phenotyped individuals need to take place.”

Between December 2022 and November 2023, Dr. Iwasaki and her team collected blood samples from 42 people with post-vaccination syndrome and 22 healthy people without it. People with the syndrome were generally in poorer health than the average American, the researchers found.

When they analyzed components of the immune system, those with post-vaccination syndrome had different proportions of some immune cells, compared with controls. It’s unclear what these differences might mean; the researchers did not link them to individual symptoms.

Because the symptoms reported by people with post-vaccination syndrome show considerable overlap with those of long Covid, the researchers also analyzed blood from 134 people with long Covid and 134 healthy controls.

Like people with long Covid, those with post-vaccination syndrome showed reactivation of Epstein-Barr virus, a virus that may lie dormant in the body and is linked to mononucleosis, multiple sclerosis and other conditions.

Some cases of long Covid are thought to result from the persistence of the spike protein of the coronavirus, resulting in a heightened state of inflammation in the body.

Dr. Iwasaki and her team found that people with post-vaccination syndrome had significantly higher plasma levels of the coronavirus spike protein than everyone else — including those with long Covid — from 26 to 709 days after receiving the vaccine.

Dr. Iwasaki said the mRNA vaccines were unlikely to be the source of the protein so long after the shots were administered. “Something else is allowing this sort of late-phase expression of spike protein, and we don’t really know what that is,” she said.

Dr. Wherry suggested caution in interpreting that result. For example, it’s possible that some of the protein may result from undetected coronavirus infections. “I would like to see more data on this topic,” he said.

Still, he added, the lack of clear answers makes it even more important to continue to explore the issue.

“One of the things that maybe scientists got trapped into a little bit during the pandemic is this perception that we should have all the answers, and if we can’t give it a definitive answer, then we shouldn’t be talking about it,” he said.

“I think that that’s a mistake,” he added. “We can’t say for certainty that this can’t happen.”

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February 19, 2025
Guillain-Barre Syndrome: Doctor Shares Symptoms, And Preventions For This Rare Severe Neurological Condition
Pune has reported six new suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological disorder, bringing the total number of cases in the region to 73, according to officials. Of these, 47 are men and 26 are women, with 14 patients currently on ventilator support, as reported by PTI.

The Maharashtra State Health Department has intensified efforts to address this sudden rise by forming a Rapid Response Team (RRT). This team is actively investigating the outbreak, which initially included 24 suspected cases reported earlier this week.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is an uncommon but potentially severe neurological condition that has recently been reported in certain areas of Maharashtra. This rare disorder can lead to muscular weakness and paralysis. While its exact cause in the affected regions is under investigation, preliminary (yet unconfirmed), findings suggest contaminated water as a possible source of infections.

Dr. Vikram Vora, Medical Director, International SOS shares in-detail knowledge about this rare neurological condition called Guillain- Barre Syndrome.

What is Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS)?

GBS is a rare condition where the immune system gets tricked into attacking peripheral nerves, leading to weakness, numbness, and sometimes paralysis of muscles. Though not contagious, GBS can be life-threatening if it affects the muscles responsible for breathing.

The condition is often the consequence of viral or bacterial infections, with Campylobacter jejuni, a bacteria found in undercooked poultry, which can cause diarrhea, being one of the most common culprits. Other infections linked to GBS include influenza, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, Zika virus and even COVID-19. While GBS can affect anyone, it is more commonly seen in adult men.

Most people with GBS require hospitalization, where they need to be monitored closely. Treatments such as immunotherapy (immunoglobulin or plasma exchange) can help manage the condition, and mechanical ventilation may be necessary in severe cases. Recovery is typically complete but may take several weeks.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Individuals with GBS may experience a range of symptoms, including:

● Muscle-related symptoms: Weakness in the legs that ascends to involve the upper body, difficulty in walking, problems with coordination and maintaining posture, or inability to raise the foot.

● Whole-body symptoms: Fatigue, high blood pressure, or abnormal heart rhythms.

● Other common symptoms: Tingling, numbness or burning sensations in the fingers or toes, weakness of facial muscles, visual disturbances, difficulty speaking or swallowing (choking on saliva), shortness of breath, slow reflexes, and urinary retention.

● Pain: Muscle pain can be another early sign of the condition.

Most affected individuals experience significant weakness within the first two weeks of getting infected.

Tips to Prevent Respiratory and Gastrointestinal Illness

Since GBS is often triggered by infections, taking steps to prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal illnesses is crucial. Here are some hygiene tips and precautions:

1. Maintain proper hand hygiene: Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.

2. Avoid close contact with sick individuals: Do not share personal items such as towels or eating utensils.

3. Avoid touching your face: Keep your hands clean before touching your face.

4. Choose safe food and water:
- Consume food that is freshly cooked and served hot.
- Avoid ice, raw fruits, and raw vegetables (including salads). Choose fruits and vegetables you can peel yourself.
5. Seek medical attention early: If you experience any symptoms, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Preventive measures, such as maintaining hygiene and consuming safe food and water, are essential to minimize the risk of infections that may trigger GBS. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms similar to those of GBS, seek immediate medical care to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.

By staying informed and vigilant, we can help reduce the impact of GBS and protect our communities.
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January 25, 2025
Strengthening Immunity Against HMPV: Expert Shares Essential Preventive Measures For All Lifestyles

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) has recently gained attention due to a reported outbreak, with seven cases confirmed. This has sparked concerns and rumors: Is it something to panic about? Does it pose a serious threat to life? Is it comparable to COVID-19? Could it lead to lockdowns? These are just a few of the questions circulating.

Prof. Ashok Rattan, Former CAREC/WHO/PAHO and lead Advisor, Medical Committee & Quality, Redcliffe Labs says, ‘It’s important to note that HMPV is not a new virus; it was first identified in 2001. However, it remains relatively less well-known due to limited research and awareness.’

What is HMPV?

Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that causes infections with symptoms similar to the common cold or flu. Most individuals recover within a few days without any complications. However, if the infection is not diagnosed early and worsens, it can lead to more serious symptoms such as fever, sore throat, shortness of breath, and even develop into pneumonia or bronchitis. HMPV outbreaks are most commonly seen during the winter and spring seasons.

Is Everyone at Risk?

HMPV infections are more prevalent among older adults (ages 65 and above), children under 5, and individuals with weakened immune systems. The best way to prevent and protect against the virus is by strengthening the immune system.

Measures to Build Immunity Against HMPV

Prof. Ashok Rattan said, ‘HMPV is a part of the pneumoviridae family, the same family as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). It is generally a mild virus and tends to have less severe effects in individuals with a strong immune system.’

So, what precautions should you take?

Wash Your Hands

Maintaining proper hygiene is the best way to keep viruses at bay. Start by washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.

Avoid Touching Your Face with Unwashed Hands

HMPV, like other respiratory viruses, spreads through the mouth, nose, and eyes. To prevent transmission, it’s crucial not to touch your face with unwashed hands, particularly your eyes, mouth, and nose.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Your overall health is largely influenced by what you eat—up to 80%. To maintain a healthy body inside and out, it’s crucial to consume a balanced diet that includes all the essential nutrients to strengthen your immune system. A robust immune system not only helps protect against HMPV but also shields you from seasonal allergies and other illnesses.

It’s recommended to focus on nutrient-dense, home-cooked meals that include immunity-boosting ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and jaggery. Incorporate citrus fruits, pulses, and herbal teas into your meals. Avoid processed and packaged foods as much as possible, and ensure that children are particularly encouraged to eat clean, home-cooked meals.

Vitamin C is key to boosting immunity, and winter offers an abundance of seasonal fruits rich in this nutrient, such as amla, oranges, berries, bell peppers, kiwis, and tomatoes. Additionally, omega-3-rich foods can help reduce inflammation and support lung function.

It’s important to avoid alcohol, as its benefits are limited to use in sanitizers, and limit spicy or sugary foods to maintain a balanced immune system and healthy cholesterol levels.

Stay in a Well-Ventilated Area

Proper ventilation is crucial for reducing the concentration of airborne viruses. To minimize the risk of infection, avoid staying in closed spaces and ensure adequate air circulation by keeping doors and windows open. If the air quality index (AQI) in your area is poor, it’s advisable to use air purifiers to maintain clean, fresh air indoors.

Don’t Panic, Manage Stress

It’s natural to feel concerned when hearing about a virus affecting children or posing a higher risk to older adults, like parents or grandparents. However, stress won’t help the situation. The best approach is to stay calm, take the necessary precautions, and focus on keeping yourself and your family safe. Incorporating practices such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise can help manage stress and maintain good health.

Rest Well

Getting 7-8 hours of quality sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy body. Along with eating nutritious food and staying active, ensuring proper rest is also essential for overall well-being.

Wear a Mask

The risk of transmission is higher in crowded areas. To reduce the chance of inhaling airborne particles that linger in the air after someone coughs or sneezes, it’s important to cover your mouth and nose with a mask.

Disinfect Surfaces

Frequently touched surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned with an alcohol-based disinfectant, particularly those within reach of children.

Prevention is always better than dealing with illness or seeking a cure. The symptoms of HMPV are quite common and can easily be mistaken for other seasonal health problems. If you experience symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, cold, congestion, or breathing difficulties, it’s wise to get tested and make informed decisions. Staying aware and taking precautions is key to preventing the spread and keeping yourself safe.

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January 21, 2025
Power Up Your Winter Diet With These 8 Vegetarian Dishes For Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a crucial nutrient that helps in the absorption of calcium, promoting bone health and strengthening the immune system. While it is commonly obtained through sunlight exposure, during the colder months, particularly in winter, it can be harder to get adequate vitamin D from the sun. For those who follow a vegetarian diet, finding plant-based sources of vitamin D can be a challenge, but it’s far from impossible. Here are 8 delicious vegetarian dishes that can help you fight vitamin D deficiency during winter:

1. Mushroom and Spinach Stir-Fry

Mushrooms are one of the few plant-based foods that contain vitamin D, particularly when exposed to sunlight or UV light. Combine them with spinach, a rich source of iron and fiber, and you have a delicious, nutrient-packed stir-fry. Simply sauté sliced mushrooms with garlic, onions, and spinach in olive oil for a quick, vitamin D-boosting meal. Add some nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrients.

Tip: Opt for UV-exposed mushrooms (often labeled on packaging) as they contain higher levels of vitamin D.

2. Fortified Plant-Based Smoothie

Plant-based milks such as almond, soy, or oat milk are often fortified with vitamin D, making them an excellent ingredient for a nutrient-rich smoothie. Blend fortified plant milk with fruits like bananas, berries, and a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for an energy-boosting breakfast. You can also add leafy greens like kale or spinach to boost both vitamin D and other essential nutrients.

3. Tofu Scramble

Tofu is an excellent source of plant-based protein, and when prepared with vitamin D-fortified products like soy or almond milk, it becomes a great option for combating vitamin D deficiency. Simply crumble tofu and sauté it with onions, bell peppers, turmeric, and a dash of nutritional yeast (which also contains vitamin D) for a savory, protein-packed breakfast or lunch.

Tip: Use nutritional yeast in your tofu scramble or any dish to further boost your vitamin D intake.

4. Chickpea and Avocado Salad

Chickpeas are rich in fiber and protein, making them a great base for a nutrient-dense salad. Combine mashed chickpeas with avocado, another food that contains small amounts of vitamin D, and top with vitamin D-fortified olive oil. Adding roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes and bell peppers will further enhance the dish, offering both flavor and nutrition.

5. Fortified Orange Juice and Whole Grain Toast

Start your day with a vitamin D-rich breakfast that includes a glass of fortified orange juice. Many brands of orange juice are fortified with vitamin D, making it an easy addition to your morning routine. Pair it with whole-grain toast topped with mashed avocado and a sprinkle of chia seeds to give your body a natural source of omega-3 fatty acids.

6. Vegan Lentil Soup

Lentils are a great source of protein and iron, and when paired with fortified vegetable broth, they can help you boost your vitamin D intake. A warming lentil soup made with onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, along with vitamin D-fortified broth, is the perfect dish to warm up your body during cold winter months. You can also add leafy greens like kale for extra nutrients.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes with Nut Butter

Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene and make a filling base for a healthy winter meal. When paired with vitamin D-fortified nut butter, like almond or peanut butter, you not only enjoy a delicious combination of flavors but also boost your vitamin D intake. This dish is great as a side or even as a main when paired with a green salad.

8. Oatmeal with Fortified Plant Milk

Start your day off right with a bowl of warm oatmeal made with fortified plant milk (like soy or almond milk) to give your body the vitamin D it needs. Add toppings such as berries, nuts, seeds, and a drizzle of maple syrup for flavor. Oats provide complex carbohydrates that keep you energized throughout the day while the fortified milk helps combat vitamin D deficiency.

Be sure to include fortified plant-based products like soy milk, nutritional yeast, and fortified cereals, as well as natural sources like mushrooms, to effectively combat vitamin D deficiency this winter.

(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

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January 10, 2025
What We Know About HMPV, the Virus Spreading in China

Reports of a surge in cases of a respiratory virus in China have evoked dark echoes of the start of the Covid-19 pandemic almost exactly five years ago.

But despite the surface similarities, this situation is very different, and far less worrisome, medical experts say.

The Chinese cases are reported to be infections with human metapneumovirus, known to doctors as HMPV. Here is what we know so far:

What is HMPV?

It is one of several pathogens that circulate across the world each year, causing respiratory illnesses. HMPV is common — so common that most people will be infected while they are still children and may experience several infections in their lifetimes. In countries with months of cold weather HMPV can have an annual season, much like the flu, while in places closer to the Equator it circulates at lower levels all year long.

HMPV is similar to a virus that is better known in the United States — respiratory syncytial virus, or R.S.V. It causes symptoms much like those associated with flu and Covid, including cough, fever, nasal congestion and wheezing.

Most HMPV infections are mild, resembling bouts of the common cold. But severe cases can result in bronchitis or pneumonia, particularly among infants, older adults and immunocompromised people. Patients with pre-existing lung conditions, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or emphysema, are at higher risk of severe outcomes.

In higher-income countries, the virus is rarely fatal; in lower-income countries, with weak health systems and poor surveillance, deaths are more common.

How long has this virus been around?

The virus was identified in 2001, but researchers say it has circulated in humans for at least 60 years. Though it is not new, it doesn’t have the name recognition of influenza, Covid or even R.S.V., said Dr. Leigh Howard, an associate professor of pediatric infectious disease at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

One reason is that it is rarely discussed by name, except when people are hospitalized with a confirmed case of it.

“The clinical features are really difficult to distinguish from other viral illnesses, and we don’t routinely test for HMPV the way we do for Covid, flu or R.S.V.,” Dr. Howard said. “So most infections go unrecognized and are chalked up to whatever respiratory thing is going around.”

How does a person get infected with HMPV?

The virus spreads primarily through droplets or aerosols from coughing or sneezing, through direct contact with an infected individual or through exposure to contaminated surfaces — basically the same ways people get colds, flu and Covid.

Is there a vaccine? Or a treatment?

There is no vaccine against HMPV. But there is a vaccine for R.S.V., and research is underway to find a vaccination that could protect against both viruses with one shot, since they are similar. There is no antiviral treatment specifically for HMPV; treatment focuses on management of symptoms.

What is China saying about it?

The Chinese authorities have acknowledged that HMPV cases are increasing, but have emphasized that the virus is a known entity and is not a major concern. The coronavirus that causes Covid-19 was a new pathogen, so people’s immune systems had not built up defenses against it.

At a news conference held by China’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention on Dec. 27, Kan Biao, the director of the center’s Institute for Infectious Diseases, said that HMPV cases were rising among children 14 years and younger. The increase was especially notable in northern China, he said. Influenza cases have also increased, he said.

Cases could spike during the Lunar New Year holiday, at the end of January, when many people travel and gather in large groups, he said.

But overall, Mr. Kan said, “judging from the current situation, the scale and intensity of the spread of respiratory infectious diseases this year will be lower than last year’s.”

Official Chinese data shows that HMPV cases have been rising since mid-December, in both outpatient and emergency cases, according to Xinhua, the state news agency. Some parents and social media users were unfamiliar with the virus and were seeking advice online, the outlet said; it urged calm and ordinary precautions such as washing one’s hands frequently and avoiding crowded places.

In a routine media briefing on Friday, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry reiterated that cases of influenza and other respiratory viruses routinely increase at this time of year but that they “appear to be less severe and spread on a smaller scale compared with the previous year.”

Chinese officials said last week that it would set up a monitoring system for pneumonia of unknown origin. It will include procedures for laboratories to report cases and for disease control and prevention agencies to verify and handle them, the state broadcaster CCTV reported.

What has the public response in China been?

Online, amid comments from people saying they had never heard of HMPV and expressing concern that it was a new pathogen, state media outlets have sought to reassure people, warning them against blindly taking antiviral medications.

Some users have cracked jokes, saying that they could finally use up the masks they had stockpiled during the coronavirus pandemic. Many commenters have discussed a general uptick in illness, not just HMPV: “Why does the flu hurt so much” was trending on Weibo, a social media platform, on Monday.

What does the World Health Organization say?

The W.H.O. has not expressed concern. Dr. Margaret Harris, a spokeswoman for the organization, cited weekly reports from the Chinese authorities that showed a predictable rise in cases.

“As expected for this time of year, the Northern Hemisphere winter, there is a month-over-month increase of acute respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza, R.S.V. and human metapneumovirus,” she said by email.

Should I worry?

The reports coming from China are evocative of those from the first, confusing days of the Covid pandemic, and the W.H.O. is still urging China to share more information about the origin of that outbreak, five years on.

But the current situation is different in key respects. Covid was a virus that spilled over into humans from animals and was previously unknown. HMPV is well studied, and there is widespread capacity to test for it. There is broad population-level immunity to this virus globally; there was none, for Covid. A severe HMPV season can strain hospital capacity — particularly pediatric wards — but does not overwhelm medical centers.

“However, it is also vital for China to share its data on this outbreak in a timely manner,” said Dr. Sanjaya Senanayake, a specialist in infectious diseases and associate professor of medicine at the Australian National University. “This includes epidemiologic data about who is getting infected. Also, we will need genomic data confirming that HMPV is the culprit, and that there aren’t any significant mutations of concern.”

Vivian Wang contributed reporting from Beijing.

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January 7, 2025
Okra Water Benefits: Why everyone should drink Okra water daily | – Times of India
There are thousands of remedies for all our problems. But there is one solution that could be the answer to so many of your questions. Okra, more commonly known as lady’s finger and Bhindi, is a popular vegetable in many kitchens, but have you ever stopped and thought about the benefits of drinking okra water? Infusing water with okra can prove to be beneficial in so many health-related cases.Here are some advantages of okra water, its nutritional value, and who should consider making it a daily habit.

What is Okra water?

All of the okra water is simply water that has been infused with the flavour of okra pods. To prepare this nutritious beverage, soak whole okra in water for the entire night, and then consume the infusion the next day. This easy drink can add some pleasant elements to your daily routine and is of course full of nutrients.

What is the nutritional value of Okra water

Okra is an extremely nutritious food. Here’s an overview of the main nutrients in okra water:

Image: Canva
Vitamins: Okra is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, which support immune function, skin health, and bone strength.

Minerals: It contains magnesium, potassium, and calcium, crucial for muscle function and bone health.

Antioxidants: Okra is loaded with antioxidants, such as quercetin and flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
Okra water is a terrific alternative for people who might not like the flavor of cooked okra because it lets you get these nutrients without actually eating the vegetable.

Lesser-known benefits of Okra water

Say hello to a healthy gut system
Okra water is known for its high fibre content. This eventually helps in digestion. It can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements. Drinking okra water daily can provide a gentle way to keep your digestive system running smoothly.

Image: Canva

For the betterment of the heart
The antioxidants and soluble fiber in okra water contribute to heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels. This can reduce the risk of heart disease. The potassium in okra helps manage blood pressure levels.
Shiny and glowy skin
While topical treatments are typically thought of when discussing skin health, consuming okra water can also have positive internal effects on your skin. Okra’s vitamins and antioxidants provide us with a healthy complexion by lowering the visibility of imperfections and by improving the texture of our skin overall.
Try during weight loss
Okra water can be an ally in your weight management efforts. You may feel full for longer because of the fiber content, which could help you eat less unnecessary snacks. It can also be used as a low-calorie substitute for sugary drinks.
Richness of immunity
Okra water’s strong vitamin C concentration helps boost your immune system. Consuming it daily can give your body the defences it needs to ward against diseases and infections.

Morning Drinks for Glowing Skin

Who should drink Okra water and when

Okra water can be beneficial for almost everyone, but certain groups may find it particularly advantageous:
Diabetics: Okra water may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for those managing diabetes. It is best consumed in the morning.

Weight watchers: Those looking to lose or maintain weight can benefit from the fiber in okra water, which promotes satiety.

People with digestive issues: If you struggle with digestive problems, consuming okra water regularly can help improve gut health.
It’s best to drink okra water in the morning on an empty stomach for maximum benefits. However, you can enjoy it at any time of the day!
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October 5, 2024
5 Ways To Boost Your Immune System With Essential Vegan Foods

A strong immune system is key to staying healthy, especially in today’s fast-paced world. While many factors contribute to immune health, your diet plays a crucial role. A plant-based, vegan diet is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients that can help strengthen your immune system.

Here are five essential vegan foods and tips on how they can help boost your immunity:

Citrus Fruits: The Vitamin C Powerhouse

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are loaded with vitamin C, which is known to support immune function by increasing the production of white blood cells. White blood cells are vital for fighting off infections.

Leafy Greens: Packed with Nutrients

Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, and other leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as antioxidants. These nutrients are essential for maintaining healthy cells and tissues, promoting good immune function. Additionally, leafy greens contain folate, a B vitamin that aids in cell production and repair, which is crucial during times of illness.

Nuts and Seeds: A Source of Healthy Fats

Nuts and seeds, especially almonds, sunflower seeds, and walnuts, are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect your cells from damage. They also provide healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and promote overall immune health.

Ginger and Turmeric: Anti-Inflammatory Superstars

Ginger and turmeric are two powerful spices with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These foods can help modulate immune responses and protect against oxidative stress, which can weaken the immune system. Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound known for its immune-boosting effects, while ginger is great for soothing sore throats and reducing inflammation.

Garlic and Onions: Nature’s Antibiotics

Garlic and onions are known for their antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Garlic contains allicin, a compound that boosts the immune system and helps fight infections. Onions are rich in quercetin, a flavonoid that can reduce inflammation and combat free radicals, further supporting your body’s defenses.

Incorporating these immune-boosting vegan foods into your daily diet can help fortify your body’s natural defenses. Remember to balance your meals with a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins to ensure you’re getting all the essential nutrients for optimal health. Alongside a nutritious diet, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and managing stress will also play important roles in keeping your immune system strong and resilient.

(This article is intended for your general information only. Zee News does not vouch for its accuracy or reliability.)

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September 30, 2024
Understanding How Immune System Dysfunctions Trigger Vitiligo

Vitiligo is caused by an autoimmune reaction against melanocytes leading to melanocyte loss. The cause of vitiligo is an interaction between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors as shared by Dr Rashmi Aderao, dermatology consultant at Ruby Hall Clinic Pune.

Currently, the exact aetiology of vitiligo remains obscure, but many factors have been implicated in the development of the disease including infections, stress, neural abnormalities, defective melanocyte adhesion, and genetic susceptibility. The biochemical hypothesis argues that melanocyte destruction is due to the accumulation of toxic metabolites from melanogenesis, the breakdown of free-radical defence, and an excess of hydrogen peroxide.

• External Factors: Trauma, sunburn, and exposure to certain chemicals can precipitate or worsen vitiligo by inducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.

• Infections: Viral and bacterial infections might trigger immune responses that cross-react with melanocytes.

Regulatory T Cells (Tregs): These cells normally suppress autoimmune responses, but their function may be impaired in vitiligo patients, allowing the immune system to attack melanocytes.

Melanocyte Defects: Intrinsic Defects: Melanocytes in vitiligo patients might have inherent defects making them more susceptible to immune attacks.

• Antigen Presentation: Abnormal presentation of melanocyte antigens could trigger an inappropriate immune response.

Both the adaptive immune system—through cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and melanocyte-specific antibodies—and the innate immune system are involved in the autoimmune process against melanocytes.

Skin melanocytes of vitiligo patients have an increased sensitivity to endogenous or external stress factors, such as trauma or ultraviolet radiation, which increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) vitiligo melanocytes exhibit several structural defects that impair their ability to resist oxidative stress, including endoplasmic reticulum dilatation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and abnormal melanosome structure. However, the exact events leading to the development of vitiligo are still incompletely understood.

Vitiligo is linked to other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid diseases, and lupus, alopecia areata, IBD.

People with vitiligo may also have an increased risk of other autoimmune conditions, such as pernicious anemia, Addison’s disease, and Sjogren’s disease. Ideally, the management of vitiligo focuses on stopping the immune destruction of melanocytes, halting depigmentation, stimulating repigmentation, and preventing relapses

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June 29, 2024
Neurotransmitters Produced By Gut Bacteria Influence The Development Of The Newborn Immune System: Study

The preclinical study, published in Science Immunology on March 15, showed that bacteria abundant in the guts of newborns produce serotonin, which promotes the development of immune cells called T-regulatory cells or Tregs. These cells suppress inappropriate immune responses to help prevent autoimmune diseases and dangerous allergic reactions to harmless food items or beneficial gut microbes.

“The gut is now known as the second human brain as it makes over 90 percent of the neurotransmitters in the human body. While neurotransmitters such as serotonin are best known for their roles in brain health, receptors for neurotransmitters are located throughout the human body,” explained the study’s senior author, Dr. Melody Zeng, an assistant professor of immunology in the Gale and Ira Drukier Institute for Children’s Research and the Department of Pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine.

Gut Bacteria in Babies Provide a Helping Hand

The researchers observed that the neonatal mouse gut had much higher levels of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, than the adult gut. “So far, almost all studies of gut neurotransmitters were conducted in adult animals or human subjects, where a specific gut cell type called enterochromaffin cells produce neurotransmitters,” said Dr. Zeng. “However, we discovered that this isn’t the case in the newborn gut where most of the serotonin is made by bacteria that are more abundant in the neonatal gut.”

This was also confirmed in babies through a human infant stool biobank that the Zeng lab has established in collaboration with the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in the NewYork-Presbyterian Alexandra Cohen Hospital for Women and Newborns. These samples were obtained with parental consent and de-identified.

The study results suggest that before the neonatal gut is mature enough to make its neurotransmitters, unique gut bacteria may supply neurotransmitters that are needed for critical biological functions during early development.

“We found that gut bacteria in young mice not only directly produce serotonin but also decrease an enzyme called monoamine oxidase that normally breaks down serotonin, thus keeping gut serotonin levels high,” said the study’s lead author Dr Katherine Sanidad, a postdoctoral associate in pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine.

The high serotonin levels shift the balance of immune cells by increasing the number of Tregs, which helps prevent the immune system from overreacting and attacking gut bacteria or food antigens. “The neonatal gut needs these serotonin-producing bacteria to keep the immune system in check,” Dr. Sanidad added.

Healthy Immune System Helps Later in Life

Dr Zeng noted that this work underscores the importance of having the right types of beneficial bacteria soon after birth. Babies in developed countries have better access to antibiotics, less exposure to diverse microbes in their clean environments, and potentially unhealthy diets that may significantly impact the abundance of serotonin-producing bacteria in their intestines.

As a result, these babies may have fewer Tregs and develop immune reactions to their own gut bacteria, or allergies to food. This may be one reason food allergies have become increasingly common in children, particularly in developed countries. “If educated properly, the immune system in babies would recognize that things like peanuts and eggs are okay, and it doesn’t have to attack them,” she said. This may also have an impact on developing autoimmune diseases–when the immune system attacks the body’s own healthy cells–later in life.

The team next plans to look at bacteria in human infant stool samples to measure their production of serotonin, other neurotransmitters, and molecules that may help train the immune system to prevent future immune-related diseases, such as allergies, infections, and cancer.

“It’s essential to understand how the immune system is trained during early life, but this is understudied in newborns and children. Further studies of these developmental periods may hopefully lead us to mitigation approaches to reduce the risk of inflammatory diseases like food allergies and inflammatory bowel disease later in life,” Dr Sanidad said.

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March 22, 2024