Current Affairs - Science

Research suggests that gut-friendly bacteria, or probiotics, could help in treating vitiligo, a skin condition caused by the destruction of pigment-producing cells due to autoimmune responses. These beneficial microorganisms, such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces Boulardii, play a role in maintaining gut health, boosting immunity, and reducing inflammation. The treatment is believed to help suppress harmful T cells that attack pigment while boosting protective regulatory T cells, potentially aiding in the management of vitiligo.

A 500-kg metal object crashed in Kenya, sparking concerns over space debris and the increasing global challenges related to debris reentries. The crash highlighted the risks of space debris, which includes defunct satellites, rocket stages, and fragments from collisions or explosions in space. The event underlined the need for better accountability and safety measures to manage the growing issue of space debris, as well as the potential risks associated with its reentry into Earth’s atmosphere.

The new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, was discovered by researchers in China, specifically at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. This virus, which uses the same ACE2 receptor as SARS-CoV-2 to infect human cells, raises concerns about potential zoonotic transmission. Although its binding efficiency to human cells is lower, the virus's presence of a furin cleavage site adds to its potential risk. This discovery highlights the need for ongoing surveillance and research on bat-borne viruses to prevent future outbreaks.

The presence of faecal coliform bacteria in the Ganga River at Prayagraj has raised serious public health concerns, particularly during the Maha Kumbh Mela. Faecal coliform bacteria are indicative of contamination due to animal or sewage waste. While not all faecal bacteria are harmful, their presence signals the potential presence of other pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella, which can cause gastrointestinal infections and other serious health issues. The contamination level in the Ganga exceeds safe limits, heightening the risks for millions of people who bathe in the river.

The study indicates that nearly 44% of the global population, which equates to 3.5 billion people, is potentially exposed to zoonotic diseases. These diseases are transmitted from animals to humans, and the study highlights wildland-urban interfaces (WUIs) as high-risk zones where zoonotic spillovers are more likely. Factors such as human activities and rapid urbanization in these regions contribute to the increased risk. This makes it crucial to focus on regions with high host species richness and populations at risk from zoonotic diseases.