Ibuprofen requires a multistep synthesis to build up to its increased complexity Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Molecular blueprints: the synthesis of ibuprofen Last updated: 26/02/26, 18:28 Published: 05/03/26, 08:00 Ibuprofen requires a multistep synthesis to build up to its increased complexity This is the second and last article in a two-part series on retrosynthesis. First article: Molecular Blueprints: The Art of Synthetic Planning . Introduction In the second article in this series on synthetic planning, the retrosynthetic techniques discussed previously are applied to the synthesis of ibuprofen. Developed by the Boots company in the 1950s and 1960s as an analogue of aspirin, ibuprofen had been taken by more than 100 million people in over 120 countries by 1985. Widely used for pain relief and as an anti-inflammatory, the chemical importance of ibuprofen cannot be overstated. Retrosynthetic analysis of ibuprofen In the previous article, all the syntheses of aspirin shown were achievable in two steps due to its relatively simple molecular structure. However, ibuprofen requires a multistep synthesis to build up to its increased complexity. A useful FGI at the outset would be to convert the carboxylic acid into a nitrile, as this group can later be readily converted back using acid and water. To build the isobutyl fragment, a Friedel–Crafts acylation could be employed, avoiding unwanted side reactions which come from Friedel–Crafts alkylation. Lastly, the resulting ketone product can be easily reduced using a Clemmensen reduction (Zn/Hg) to remove the carbonyl group altogether. Once a retrosynthetic pathway has been proposed, the next step is to identify a suitable starting material — typically something cheap and readily available. For this synthesis, a sensible starting material would be benzene. As shown in Figure 1 , the disconnection strategy targets the isobutyl portion of the side chain. To install the remaining carbon framework, a second Friedel–Crafts acylation will work nicely ( Figure 2 ). At this stage, two challenges remain. Firstly, the molecule is missing a carbon atom — this is not an issue, as the earlier retrosynthetic analysis shows the addition of a nitrile group which will extend the chain. The next question is how to convert a ketone to a nitrile group. This sequence begins with a reduction of the ketone to form a secondary alcohol using sodium borohydride (NaBH₄). Since alcohols are poor leaving groups, direct nucleophilic substitution (SN2) is not possible. Instead, an Appel reaction can be used to convert the alcohol into a halide, creating a stable leaving group. An Appel reaction proceeds via an SN2-like mechanism using triphenylphosphine (PPh₃). The reason the alcohol is now a good leaving group is due to the formation of a phosphorus–oxygen double bond, which drives the reaction forward. This now allows substitution using NaCN, after which acid and water can be added to form the final product ( Figure 3 ). Conclusion Together, the two articles in the Molecular Blueprints series highlight the power of retrosynthetic analysis in guiding organic synthesis. This technique forms the foundation for one of the most active areas of modern chemistry: total natural product synthesis. Written by Antony Lee Related article: Exploring ibuprofen Project Gallery

For centuries, we have been burning fossil fuels, polluting our oceans and participating in deforestation without a second thought. We have managed to understand the consequences this has had on our planet and have started to make movement in the right direction; but is it too late? Go back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Geoengineering: what is it and will it actually work? Last updated: 01/03/26 Published: 02/04/23 For centuries, we have been burning fossil fuels, polluting our oceans and participating in deforestation without a second thought. We have managed to understand the consequences this has had on our planet and have started to make movement in the right direction; but is it too late? In the past 50 years, we have warmed the planet at a rate of approximately 0.1°C per decade. It doesn’t sound like much but the effect this has is astronomical; increased drought, adverse weather conditions and a rising sea level to name a few of the consequences. People are aware of the damage we have caused, and there is thankfully a switching attitude towards our environment with the increased usage of renewable energies and technologies such as electric cars. The problem arises from the rate of this societal switch. It isn’t fast enough. We haven’t quite understood how to stop our reliance on farming animals, carbon dioxide emissions and polluting transport. What if we could disrupt the natural mechanisms of our planet, just as we did to cause this problem in the first place? Scientists have started to consider some dystopian sounding scenarios that are classed as ‘geoengineering’ techniques. There are two main branches of geoengineering: solar radiation management and greenhouse gas removal. Solar radiation management is the more alien of the two categories, involving sending large mirrors into space that reflect sunlight or enhancing the natural ability of clouds to block radiation, called albedo enhancement. Greenhouse gas removal is more commonly heard of, and involves reducing the proportion of harmful gases, mainly carbon dioxide, in our atmosphere. This can be as simple as planting more trees to do this naturally, or having point source removal of carbon dioxide in factories, which means that the gases never enter the atmosphere. A difficult yet promising idea is the removal of carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere using a material that absorbs it directly, which could not only reduce the amount in the atmosphere, but could return us to anthropogenic atmosphere composition. The idea is interesting; to disrupt the naturally occurring processes with human intervention, which buys time for us to develop better renewable energy resources, biodegradable materials and a better attitude towards saving our planet. Theoretically, it seems reasonable however the concern is that with these techniques, we may continue to treat the environment with a lack of respect, since we would be creating a false sense of security. Furthermore, the technologies are large scale therefore we may not be able to model and test them sufficiently before implementation. They may not be successful or safe. The ideal scenario is to not need geoengineering, however we need to act fast to avoid its necessity. Written by Megan Martin Related article: How nuclear fusion holds the key to tackling climate change

A CV entails a person's notable accomplishments. We check your CV for free! Our expert advisors offer to review your CV in a time-efficient manner, by providing quality feedback. Curriculum Vitae (CV) Looking to apply for a job after your graduation, internship, or placement? Read below our CV information and advice! What are CVs? A CV entails a person's notable accomplishments - for example, their education history, work experience, certifications, volunteering experience, projects, and more. They are normally made on Microsoft Word and should be one page long , however someone extremely experienced in their field of work may choose to make their CV as two pages. But isn't this a resumé? ... ... No. CVs contain a more comprehensive breakdown of education, work experience etc; a resum é is not as detailed. A resum é also excludes date of birth, address, and contact info, whereas a CV includes this. Why should you write a good CV? There are several reasons as to why you should write a good CV, with just a few listed below: Professionalism A well organised, polished CV reflects your attention to detail and makes you more likely to be considered by employers for the advertised job. First impression and employability Employers spend less than 9 seconds looking at a CV! Hence, a well-designed CV is important as it will make you stand out and increase chances of securing an interview. Career progression A CV is not only for getting a job. It shows how you have generally developed as an employee, from what new skills you have gained to the responsibilities you have picked up. Networking Having a strong CV will allow you to share your background in a quick and efficient matter at, for example, career fairs or industry events. How do I know if my CV is to the right standard? Read below to find out more. We can check your CV for free! 1. Style We will make sure your writing is coherent and flows in the correct way, such as in chronological order. We will also recommend fonts, font sizes, appropriate headings that employers prefer and more, as layout is incredibly important to consider. 2. Spelling, punctuation and grammar It is easy to make small errors that can be easily overlooked! However, we will proofread your work to make sure your sentences make sense whilst being straight to the point. 3. Sections to include More than one would think, some may include sections that are of no relevance to the employer or put lack of detail in the ones that matter most. We will help make sure you don't fall into this trap. 4. Helping you make a start It is completely normal to feel like you don't know where to start from, too! Our advisors can ask you personalised questions regarding your experience, education, and so on to give you a 'template' to work on. This can then be reviewed and personalised feedback will be given until you are satisfied. 5. Other neat tricks... There are some features of a CV that individuals may not focus on but employers actually look for (hint: super- and extracurricular). Find out more from us if you're interested! Browse some career roles and insights in jobs related to: statistics , nuclear medicine , clinical computer scientist Example universities where some of our advisors attend/have graduated from: Queen Mary University of London, Imperial College London, University of Liverpool and so on. Some of these students have secured placements, internships, and jobs with companies such as GSK and STATIC St. Andrews ! Just like personal statements , our expert advisors offer to review your CV in a time-efficient manner, by providing feedback on the following: Fill the form out below and we will contact you* * Alternatively, you can email us at scientianewsorg@gmail.com . Please keep the subject as 'CVs'. Email Subject Your message Send Thanks for submitting!

Tiny solutions for big health problems Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Nanomedicine 17/07/25, 11:52 Last updated: Published: 17/01/24, 00:07 Tiny solutions for big health problems As the landscape of the healthcare field expands, new advances are coming forth, and one such area of interest is nanomedicine. Existing on a miniature scale called nanometres, nanomedicine and technology provide a revolutionary solution to many modern-day problems faced by the scientific community. Through this article, we’ll aim to explore what exactly nanomedicine is, its importance, its use in medicine, as well as its limitations and future prospects. The nanoscale When mentioning nanomedicine or nanotechnology, we refer to materials and particles existing on the nanoscale. This lies between 1-100 nanometres. For reference, human hair is 80,000-100,000 nanometres wide, so comparatively, the technology is much smaller. Although the technology may seem small, its impact is far too significant to be discredited. Due to their smaller size, the nanoparticles hold several advantages, making them useful in biomedicine, these include providing greater surface area for molecular interactions in the body, and they are much easier to manipulate, allowing for greater control and precision in terms of diagnostics and medicine delivery (Figure 1). Cancer drug delivery systems Nanotechnology in the field of medicine is being widely used and tested with regards to its application as a drug delivery system. More recently, it’s being investigated for its increased precision in delivering anti-cancer drugs to patients. Nanotechnology enables precise drug delivery through the construction of nanoscale infrastructures called nanoparticles. These can be filled with anti-cancer drug treatments, and their outer structure can be further designed to include elements which target folate receptors, such as folic acid (B9 vitamin), thus increasing their affinity for specific receptors in the body. Folate receptors tend to be overexpressed on the surface of many cancers, including pancreas, breast, and lung. So, by increasing selectivity and targeting only the cells which overexpress these receptors, the nanoparticles can deliver chemotherapy drugs with increased precision. This increased accuracy results in decreased cellular toxicity to surrounding non-cancerous tissues whilst also reducing side effects. In current experiments, lipid nanoparticles loaded with the anti-cancer drug edelfosine were tested on mice with mantle cell cancer. Lipid nanoparticles offer several advantages as a drug delivery system, including biocompatibility, greater physical stability, increased tolerability, and controlled release of the encapsulated drug. Lipid nanoparticles are also advantageous for their ability to be size specific to a tumour. In the study, in vivo experimentation using mice that contained mantle cell lymphoma was used, and they were administered 30mg/kg of the encapsulated drug. After administering the edelfosine loaded nanoparticles every 4 days, it was found that the process of metastasis had been removed; this means that cancer cells could not spread to other parts of the body. Additionally, it was also found that because of the way the nanoparticles were absorbed into the lymphatic system, they could accumulate in the thoracic duct providing precise and slow release of the drug over time, thus preventing metastasis (Figure 2). Imaging and diagnostics Another area of use for nanotechnology includes imaging and diagnostics. This area of expertise is regarded as theranostics, which involves using nanoparticles as detectors to help locate the area of the body affected by a disease, such as the location of a tumour, and aid in diagnosing illnesses. With regards to diagnostics, nanoparticles can also help identify what stage of the disease is being observed as well as enable us to garner more information to form a concrete treatment programme for the patient, thus providing a personalised touch to their care. Nanomaterials can be used to engineer different types of nanoparticles, which can enhance contrast on CT and MRI scans so that diseases can be detected more easily by being more visible when compared to traditional scans. In collaboration with Belcher et al., Bardhan worked to collectively develop different formulations of polymers that would be most effective in imagining and detecting cancers earlier. In the figure below, a nanoparticle made of a core shell was used for imaging. It comprises a yellow polymer with a red fluorescent dye to increase imagining contrast of the area and a blue lanthanide nanoparticle. When the lanthanide particles are excited by a light source, fluorescence in the near infrared range (NIR-II) is emitted, allowing for clear contrast and imaging. This can be seen in the figure below. From the colours involved, the tumour being imaged could be investigated more thoroughly in how it was distributed and learn more about its microenvironment in a mouse affected by ovarian cancer (Figure 3). Nanobots In recent times, new investment in the form of nanorobots has been made apparent. Nanorobots are nanoelectromechanical systems whose size is very similar to human organelles and cells, so there are a variety of ways they could be helpful in healthcare, such as in the field of surgery. Traditionally, surgical tools can be limited to work on a small scale. However, with nanorobots, it can be possible to access areas unreachable to surgical tools and catheters whilst also reducing recovery time and infection risk, as well as granting greater control and accuracy over the surgery. In a study conducted by Chen et al. (2020), the researchers manipulated magnetotactic bacterial microrobots to kill a bacteria known as Staphylococcus aureus enabled by magnetic fields to target them. Using a microfluidic chip, the microrobots were guided to the target site and then were programmed to attach themselves to the bacteria. Once connected, the viability of the bacteria was reduced due to the swinging magnetic fields generated by the device. Although this research is promising, further research must be conducted to understand the compatibility of these nanotechnologies with the human body and any implications they may have in side effects (Figure 4). Challenges and safety concerns From the evidence explored above, it is evident that nanotechnology holds much promise in the field of healthcare. However, they are not without their challenges and resignations when introducing their use to human bodies. The human body is incredibly complex, and therefore the complete biocompatibility of nanoparticles, particularly nanobots, is currently under-researched and under reviewed. To extensively use them, it is vital first to understand how safe they are and their efficacy in treatment and diagnosis. Below is a summary of some of the advantages and disadvantages of these nanotechnologies (Figure 5). The future of nanotechnology in biomedicine In conclusion, nanotechnology indicates an extensive and optimistic field at the forefront of changing medical care from diagnosis to treatment. It has the potential to answer many pressing questions in healthcare including decreasing cytotoxicity via a precise drug delivery system, increased accuracy in diagnosis, and possibly becoming a novel tool in surgery. Although it is imperative for there to be new and evolved techniques to increase the quality of care for patients, it is vital not to rush and to be thorough in our approach. This involves undergoing further research, including conducting clinical trials when investigating the use of nanotechnology inside the human body; this will test for tissue compatibility, side effects, efficacy, and even dosage when using nanoparticles for drug delivery. In summary, the transformative role of nanomedicine is undeniable. It offers a path to a more personalised and precise healthcare system, allowing researchers to reshape treatment, diagnosis, and patient well-being, though its limitations are yet to be overcome. Written by Irha Khalid Related articles: Nanoparticles: the future of diabetes treatment? / Semi-conductor manufacturing / Room-temperature superconductor / Silicon hydrogel lenses / Nanoparticles and plant disease / Nanogels / Nanocarriers Project Gallery

Through AI Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Revolutionising sustainable agriculture 11/07/25, 10:51 Last updated: Published: 27/06/23, 16:34 Through AI Artificial Intelligence (AI) is taking the world by storm. Recent developments now allow scientists to integrate AI into sustainable farming. Through transforming the way we grow crops, manage resources and pests, and most importantly- protect the environment. There are many applications for AI in agriculture. Outlined below are some of the areas in which the incorporation of AI systems improves sustainability: Precision farming Artificial intelligence systems help improve the overall quality and accuracy of harvesting – known as precision farming. Artificial intelligence technology helps detect plant diseases, pests, and malnutrition on farms. AI sensors can detect and target weeds, then decide what herbicide to use in an area. This helps reduce the use of herbicides and lower costs. Many tech companies have developed robots that use computer vision and AI to monitor and precisely spray weeds. These robots can eliminate 80% of the chemicals normally sprayed on crops and reduce herbicide costs by 90%. These intelligent AI sprayers can drastically reduce the amount of chemicals used in the field, improving product quality, and lowering costs. Vertical farming Vertical farming is a technique in which plants are grown vertically by being stacked on top of each other (usually indoors) as opposed to the ‘traditional way’ of growing plants and crops on big strips of land. This approach offers several benefits for sustainable agriculture and waste reduction. The use of AI brings even more significant advancements making vertical farming more sustainable and efficient- Intelligent Climate Control: AI can use algorithms to measure and monitor temperature, humidity, and lighting conditions to optimise climate control in vertical farms. Thus, reducing energy consumption and improving resource efficiency. Creating an enhanced climate-controlled environment also allows for repeatable and programmable crop production. Predictive Plant Modelling: the difference between a profitable year and a failed harvest can just be the specific time the seeds were sowed. By using AI, farmers can use predictive analysis tools to determine the exact date suitable for sowing seeds for maximum yield and reduce waste from overproduction. Automated Nutrient Monitoring: to optimise plant nutrition, AI systems monitor and adjust nutrient levels in hydroponic (plants immersed in nutrient containing water) and aeroponic setups (plants growing outside the soil, with nutrients being provided by spraying the roots). Genetic engineering AI plays a pivotal role in genetic engineering, enhancing the sustainability and precision of crop modification through- Targeted Gene Editing: AI algorithms help in gene editing to produce desirable traits in crops, such as resistance to disease or improved nutritional content. This allows genetic modification without the need to conduct extensive field trials. Thus, saving time and resources. Computational Modelling: by combining AI modelling with gene prediction, farmers will be able to predict which combinations of genes have the potential to increase crop yield. Pest management and disease detection Artificial intelligence solutions such as smart pest detection systems are being used to monitor crops for signs of pests and diseases. These systems detect changes in the environment such as temperature, humidity, and soil nutrients, then alert farmers when something is wrong. This allows farmers to act quickly and effectively, taking preventive measures before pests cause significant damage. Another way to achieve this is by using computer vision and image processing techniques. AI can detect signs of pest infestation, nutrient deficiencies and other issues that can affect yields. This data can help farmers make informed decisions about how to protect their crops. By incorporating AI into these aspects of sustainable agriculture, farmers can achieve high yields, reduce waste and enable more sustainable farming practices, reducing environmental impacts while ensuring efficient food production. Written by Aleksandra Zurowska Related articles: Digital innovation in rural farming / Plant diseases and nanoparticles Project Gallery

A chemist's palette Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The story of pigments and dyes 14/07/25, 16:05 Last updated: Published: 20/11/23, 11:05 A chemist's palette Pigments and dyes are vital in producing vibrancy and changing colours in our surroundings. Their vast use in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, inks and textiles makes them important in playing a crucial role in creating the colourful world we see around us. But how do they come into existence? It all started from the extraction of colours from the world around us, such as green chlorophyll found in leaves and reds from berries. They were used to decorate caves and clothes in early civilization. However, when synthetic dyes came into play in the 19th century, things took an advance. Mauveine was accidentally discovered by William Henry Perkin; its vivid purple colour proved that we could make complicated organic substances from simpler ones, challenging the idea that organic compounds could only come from living things or nature. How does chemistry relate to the colours produced? Well, the way molecules are built fundamentally decides what colours are visible. In summary, the colours we see are a result of electrons in atoms and molecules absorbing and then releasing energy in the form of light. The specific colours are determined by the amount of energy released and the unique arrangement of electrons in each substance. In chemistry, pigments and dyes are used in various applications such as indicators in chemical reactions, chromatography, photovoltaic cells and most commonly in titration. They enable researchers to explore chemical processes and analyse substances. However, there are many environmental concerns regarding synthetic dyes, with pollution and water contamination. Synthetic dyes may also contain chemicals and additives that are toxic to aquatic life, posing risks to the environment. To address these issues, regulations, research into eco-friendly alternatives, sustainable practices, and educating people on this is important. In essence, we are constantly reminded of the evolving relationship between colours and chemistry. In the future, as more materials change colours and new uses are discovered, chemists will continue to be fascinated by the endless possibilities. Written by Anam Ahmed Project Gallery

Getting treatment can prevent things from getting worse Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Depression in Children 10/07/25, 11:17 Last updated: Published: 17/06/23, 13:46 Getting treatment can prevent things from getting worse It's normal for kids to feel sad, act grouchy, or be in a bad mood at times. But when a sad or bad mood lasts for weeks or longer, and when there are other changes in a child's behavior, it might be depression. Therapy can help children who are going through sadness or depression. And there are things parents can do, too. Getting the right care can prevent things from getting worse and help a child feel better. Symptoms of depression Sad or bad mood. A child may seem sad, lonely, unhappy, or grouchy. It can last weeks or months. A child may cry more easily. They may have more tantrums than before. Being self-critical. Kids going through depression may complain a lot. They may say self-critical things like, "I can't do anything right." "I don't have any friends." "I can't do this." "It's too hard for me." Lack of energy and effort. Depression can drain a child's energy. They might put less effort into school than before. Even doing little tasks can feel like too much effort. Kids may seem tired, give up easily, or not try. Not enjoying things. Kids don't have as much fun with friends or enjoy playing like before. They may not feel like doing things they used to enjoy. Sleep and eating changes. Kids may not sleep well or seem tired even if they get enough sleep. Some may not feel like eating. Others may overeat. Aches and pains. Some children may have stomach aches or other pains. Some miss school days because of not feeling well, even though they aren't sick. Causes of depression Some common reasons include: - life events like someone dying - moving schools or other big changes - physical health problems - experiencing physical, sexual or psychological abuse or neglect - witnessing violence or a traumatic event - if you have an unstable family environment Intervention Three of the more common methods used in depression treatment include: - cognitive behavioral therapy - interpersonal therapy - psychodynamic therapy Written by Chhaya Dhedi Related articles: Childhood stunting in developing nations / What does depression do to your brain? / Brain of a bully / Anxiety / Postpartum depression in adolescent mothers Project Gallery

Looking at modern society in terms of the food being consumed and the amount of exercise undertaken collectively, it is entirely inevitable that diabetes will become an epidemic. Now before delving into the above statement further, diabetes mellitus (from Greek ‘siphon’ and Latin ‘sweet’) is a non-communicable disease that occurs when blood sugar levels in the body are so high, that the pancreas is unable to produce adequate insulin in order to manage this problem. Go back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Will diabetes mellitus become an epidemic? Last updated: 25/02/26 Published: 18/05/23 Defining diabetes and its causes Looking at modern society in terms of the food being consumed and the amount of exercise undertaken collectively, it is entirely inevitable that diabetes will become an epidemic. Now before delving into the above statement further, diabetes mellitus (from Greek ‘siphon’ and Latin ‘sweet’) is a non-communicable disease that occurs when blood sugar levels in the body are so high, that the pancreas is unable to produce adequate insulin in order to manage this problem. Also, diabetes can be categorised into various types, but the most common are types 1 and 2 as well as gestational (which happens during pregnancy). There is also diabetes insipidus (from Latin ‘lacking taste’), and this is where the kidneys are unable to conserve water. The causes of diabetes mellitus can be divided based on the type. Since type 1 can be caused by the body’s immune system attacking the pancreas, this means that the beta cells are unable to make enough insulin because they are damaged. Not only can type 1 diabetes arise this way, it is possible that environmental factors such as diet and viral infections lead to the disease. As for type 2, it primarily comes from insulin resistance, meaning that the body does not respond to the hormone effectively compared to a person without diabetes. This in turn impacts insulin mediated glycogen synthesis and glycolysis leading to hyperglycemia as seen in figure 1. There are many reasons why diabetes is likely to become an epidemic. Firstly, there is a clear connection between obesity and type 2 diabetes which cannot be ignored; this is because an article found that people with both conditions are exacerbated perhaps due to increased non esterified fatty acids (NEFAs) and glycerol among other linked biochemicals. On the other hand, this same article stated that people with type 1 diabetes are not usually obese. Nevertheless, it is vital that in order to prevent the incidence of type 2 diabetes in later life, it is important to implement strategies such as regular exercise and lowering carbohydrate intake in the diet. Alluding to the previous paragraph, one of the major factors to the increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes diagnoses is the sedentary lifestyle or decreased mobility through sitting. A meta-analysis evaluated 10 studies with over 500,000 volunteers and concluded that there was a 112% cumulative increase in type 2 diabetes risk linked to watching TV. Additionally, a study showed that more sedentary time had raised body and trunk fat percentage while there was reduced appendicular skeletal muscle mass. Taking into account these findings among others, it is evident that exercise does play a role in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Counteracting the previous paragraphs, it is equally plausible that diabetes will not be epidemic because there are current pharmaceutical drugs taken orally like sulfonylureas and meglitinides that cause the pancreas to release insulin aside from injection based ones such as amylin mimetics, which maintains blood glucose concentration, which are used for type 2 diabetes. As for those afflicted with type 1 diabetes, they mainly take insulin because they are in deficit of the hormone or they can have a pancreatic transplant, which has more than 96% and 83% survival rates after 1 and 5 years of the operations respectively, although it does have a major complication of rejection like any other type of operation. With regards to future treatments, a review discussed how newer drugs for decreasing blood glucose such as dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors have been re-evaluated for cardiovascular outcome trials by showing patients experiencing a decrease in other non-communicable diseases like myocardial infarction and albuminuria, indicating that they can be useful for heart and kidney diseases associated with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, there are other potential therapies such as probiotics and prebiotics that can be used along with faecal transplants to change the gut microbiome for type 2 diabetes patients. (New NICE guidance recommends that most people should now be offered metformin along with an SGLT-2 inhibitor from the start). It is uncertain that diabetes will/won’t become an epidemic From a more neutral perspective, there is not enough certainty that diabetes will or will not become an epidemic simply because accurately predicting the future 100% of the time is impossible. As such, the future interventions for treating diabetes may not actually get to exist, perhaps due to prospective factors like politics and societal values with respect to science as well as taking into account the difficulty for a therapeutic method to be put onto the market for the patients to consider. Another point to address is the fact that the human body is so incredibly complex that it took humans thousands of years to truly discover all of the current facts known in relation to its anatomy and physiology along with having some level of understanding of them. Not only that, there are still observations about the human body that are still unclear to scientists today and so the drugs for treating diabetes may or may not be effective depending on who is receiving the therapy because each person is genetically unique. Conclusion Referring to all of the arguments made, it is evident that diabetes is a huge burden for modern and future societies because of its links to obesity or sedentary lifestyle and consuming foods high in carbohydrates. Yet, this issue may be prevented by exploring future therapies, exploiting current ones and implementing non-clinical interventions such as increased regular exercise and reducing carbohydrate intake. Therefore, it is the responsibility of each patient and health organisation to manage diabetes before it becomes even worse. Written by Sam Jarada Related articles: Pre-diabetes / Diabetes drug to treat Parkinson's / The world vs the next pandemic REFERENCES Diabetes UK. Types of diabetes. Diabetes UK. 2022. Paschou SA, Papadopoulou-Marketou N, Chrousos GP, Kanaka-Gantenbein C. On type 1 diabetes mellitus pathogenesis. Endocrine Connections. 2018 Jan;7(1):R38–46. Cersosimo E, Triplitt C, Solis-Herrera C, Mandarino LJ, DeFronzo RA. Pathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Nih.gov. MDText.com, Inc.; 2018. Algoblan A, Alalfi M, Khan M. Mechanism linking diabetes mellitus and obesity. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy. 2014 Dec;7(587–591):587. Barnes AS. The epidemic of obesity and diabetes: trends and treatments. Texas Heart Institute journal. 2011;38(2):142–4. Hamilton MT, Hamilton DG, Zderic TW. Sedentary Behavior as a Mediator of Type 2 Diabetes. Medicine and Sport Science. 2014;60:11–26. Li D, Yang Y, Gao Z, Zhao L, Yang X, Xu F, et al. Sedentary lifestyle and body composition in type 2 diabetes. Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome. 2022 Jan 15;14(1). Mayo Clinic. Diabetes treatment: Medications for type 2 diabetes. Mayo Clinic. 2018. Bahar SG, Devulapally P. Pancreas Transplantation. PubMed. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022. Bailey CJ, Day C. The future of new drugs for diabetes management. Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice. 2019 Sep;155:107785. Bailey CJ, Day C. Treatment of type 2 diabetes: future approaches. British Medical Bulletin. 2018 Jun 1;126(1):123–37.

When we think of bacteria, we tend to focus on their pathogenicity and ability to cause diseases such as tuberculosis, which infects around one-quarter of the world’s population. However, whilst bacteria do have the potential to become parasitic, if the trillions of bacterial cells that make up the human microbiome ceased to exist, human health would experience a rapid decline. Go back Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link Why bacteria are essential for human survival Last updated: 03/03/26 Published: 13/04/23 When we think of bacteria, we tend to focus on their pathogenicity and ability to cause diseases such as tuberculosis, which infects around one-quarter of the world’s population. However, whilst bacteria do have the potential to become parasitic, if the trillions of bacterial cells that make up the human microbiome ceased to exist, human health would experience a rapid decline. One reason for this is due to the critical role bacteria play in inducing the immune system against pathogenic threats. Upon viral infection, the interferon (IFN) defence system is initiated where the synthesis of antiviral cytokines is upregulated. Evidence suggests bacteria in the gut are capable of modulating the IFN system. They work by inducing macrophages and plasmacytoid dendritic cells to express type 1 IFN, which in turn primes natural killer cells and prepares cytotoxic CD8+ T cells for action. Erttmann et al (2022) demonstrate that a depletion of the gut microbiota diminishes the cell signalling pathways modulated by these commensal bacteria. This causes a reduction in type 1 IFN production, and thus an impairment in the activation of NK and CD8+ T cells. As a result, the body becomes more susceptible to attack by viral infections and less able to defend itself. In fact, the 2025 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Mary Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell and Shimon Sakaguchi for fundamental work on regulatory T-cells; these cells are linked to the microbiome. It proves that certain gut bacteria upregulate Foxp3 transcription, which prevents the immune system from attacking the body. This highlights just how vital the role bacteria in our microbiome play in providing us with innate immunity against viral pathogens and protecting our health. This also brings attention to our use of antibiotics, and the potential negative effects they may have on the commensal bacteria residing in our body. Erttmann et al (2022) further showed that mice treated with a variety of antibiotics exhibited a major reduction in gut microbiota diversity, thus severely comprising their ability to fight off viral infections. Research like this is important in informing doctors to be sensible in their administration of antibiotics, as well as informing patients to not self-medicate and unnecessarily ingest antibiotics. Ultimately, the commensal bacteria living in our bodies play essential roles in protecting human health, and it is, therefore, vital we take the necessary steps to also protect these remarkable microorganisms in return. Written by Bisma Butt Related article: The rising threat of antibiotic resistance REFERENCES Erttmann, S.F., Swacha, P., Aung, K.M., Brindefalk, B., Jiang, H., Härtlova, A., Uhlin, B.E., Wai, S.N. and Gekara, N.O., 2022. The gut microbiota prime systemic antiviral immunity via the cGAS-STING-IFN-I axis. Immunity, 55(5), pp.847-861. Ganal, S.C., Sanos, S.L., Kallfass, C., Oberle, K., Johner, C., Kirschning, C., Lienenklaus, S., Weiss, S., Staeheli, P., Aichele, P. and Diefenbach, A., 2012. Priming of natural killer cells by nonmucosal mononuclear phagocytes requires instructive signals from commensal microbiota. Immunity, 37(1), pp.171-186.

In bones, neural communications, fertilisation and more Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Pinterest Copy link The importance of calcium in life Last updated: 12/03/25, 16:45 Published: 10/04/25, 08:00 In bones, neural communications, fertilisation and more Did you know that the same mineral that gives your bones strength also helps to maintain your heartbeat and even plays a role in the very start of life? Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the human body, is primarily found in bones and teeth as calcium phosphate (Ca₃(PO₄)₂). But beyond its structural role, calcium ions are essential for nearly every biological function, from muscle contractions to nerve signalling. What makes calcium so versatile, while other minerals like iron, have far more limited roles? To truly understand its significance, we must explore its underlying chemical properties. Calcium and bones The calcium ion carries a 2+ charge allowing it to form stronger ionic bonds and interact strongly with negatively charged molecules like nucleotides and ATP. This makes it essential for energy transfer in cells. In comparison to monovalent ions like Na+ and K+, calcium, therefore, has a more significant charge density, increasing affinity for anions. However, the ion also has more shells than beryllium and magnesium in the same group (Group 2), contributing to reduced charge density. These properties are very crucial in determining the strength of Calcium compounds, as a high charge density may result in problems with toxicity and difficulty in the breakdown of the product. Calcium phosphate exists as hydroxyapatite in bones and teeth, giving them hardness and rigidity. Hydroxyapatite forms hexagonal crystals that are tightly packed, contributing to the dense, durable structure of bones. These crystals are organised into a matrix along collagen fibres, creating a composite material that combines rigidity (from hydroxyapatite) and flexibility (from collagen). The properties of hydroxyapatite make it uniquely suited for its roles in the body. Its hardness provides bones with the ability to resist deformation and compression, while its porous structure allows space for blood vessels, bone marrow, and the exchange of nutrients and waste. Osteoclasts break down the bone releasing calcium and phosphate ions while osteoblasts can reabsorb this calcium to reform bones in another area of the body, maintaining skeletal health and strength. Neural communication Imagine a relay race where one runner must pass the baton to the next for the race to continue. In a similar way, calcium ions act as messengers in the nervous system, triggering the release of neurotransmitters which allow nerve cells to communicate with each other. Upon experiencing a stimulus, sodium ions begin to enter neurones through voltage-gated sodium channels, causing depolarisation, which sends an electrical signal throughout the neurone that results in the opening of other sodium channels, carrying the electrical signal throughout the neurone until the signal reaches the axon terminal. When the action potential reaches the axon terminal, it triggers the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels in the membrane of the presynaptic neurone. Calcium ions from the extracellular fluid flow into the neurone due to the concentration gradient. This influx of calcium ions is a critical step in neural communication, as it directly facilitates the release of neurotransmitters stored in synaptic vesicles. This action helps to coordinate the strength and the timing of each heartbeat. Calcium ions bind to proteins on the surface of these vesicles, which enables the vesicles to fuse with the presynaptic membrane. This fusion releases neurotransmitters, such as acetylcholine, into the synaptic cleft—a tiny gap between the presynaptic and postsynaptic neurones. These neurotransmitters then bind to specific receptors on the postsynaptic neurone, leading to either an excitatory or inhibitory response. For example, acetylcholine often causes an excitatory response, such as muscle contraction or memory formation. Fertilisation Calcium ions are crucial for fertilisation, facilitating key events from sperm-egg interaction to the activation of embryonic development. When a sperm binds to the egg’s outer layer, calcium ions trigger the release of enzymes from the sperm, enabling it to penetrate the egg. Following the sperm-egg fusion, calcium ions are released within the egg, creating a wave-like signal. The rise in intracellular calcium levels in the egg has several critical effects triggers the cortical reaction, in which cortical granules – small vesicles located beneath the egg’s plasma membrane- release their contents into the space between the plasma membrane and the zona pellucida. The enzymes released during this reaction modify the zona pellucida, making it impermeable to other sperm. This process prevents polyspermy, ensuring that only one sperm fertilises the egg. This precise calcium signalling achieves successful fertilisation and the initiation of new life. Role of calcium in other organisms Calcium is a vital element essential for initiating and sustaining human life, but its importance extends far beyond the human body. Its role is not confined to animals as calcium is equally critical in the physiology of plants and fungi, where it contributes to a wide range of biological processes. In plants, calcium ions are used to form calcium pectate, a chemical used to strengthen the cell walls of the cell and make plant cells stick together. Additionally, calcium is vital for root development and nutrient uptake. It helps in the formation of root nodules in legumes, where nitrogen-fixing bacteria establish symbiotic relationships, and it influences the movement of ions across cell membranes to regulate nutrient transport. Furthermore, calcium oscillations play a crucial role in regulating the polarised growth of fungal hyphae, which are essential for environmental exploration and host infection. Hyphal growth is characterised by a highly localised expansion at the tip, requiring cytoplasmic movement and continuous synthesis of the cell wall. Calcium ions are central to these processes, functioning as dynamic signalling molecules. Calcium concentration is highest at the growing hyphal tip, forming a steep gradient essential for maintaining growth direction. This gradient is not static but oscillatory, with periodic fluctuations in cytosolic calcium levels. These oscillations arise from the interplay of calcium influx through plasma membrane channels like voltage-gated channels. These are critical for coordinating key processes at the hyphal tip. Calcium regulates vesicle trafficking by triggering the fusion of vesicles carrying enzymes with the plasma membrane. Additionally, calcium modulates the actin cytoskeleton, which provides tracks for vesicle transport and maintains the structural polarity of the hypha. Periodic calcium signals promote the dynamic assembly and disassembly of actin filaments, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to physical barriers to mobility during growth. Through its oscillatory signalling, calcium enables the precise regulation required for hyphal growth and network formation. Conclusion In conclusion, calcium is a remarkably versatile element, playing vital roles across a diverse range of organisms. In humans and animals, it not only provides structural integrity through bones and teeth but also regulates critical physiological processes such as nerve signalling. Beyond animal systems, calcium is also essential in plants, where it strengthens cell walls and improves structure. In fungi, calcium oscillations are fundamental to hyphal growth, coordinating vesicle trafficking. From building bones to driving vital biological processes, calcium is a silent powerhouse in life. Its influence stretches across humans, plants, and even fungi. Its role is truly indispensable. Written by Barayturk Aydin Related articles: Bone cancer / Tooth decay REFERENCES Haider, A. et al. (2017) Recent advances in the synthesis, functionalization and biomedical applications of Hydroxyapatite: A Review, RSC Advances. Available at: https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2017/ra/c6ra26124h (Accessed: 24 November 2024). Splettstoesser, T. (2024) Action potentials and synapses, Queensland Brain Institute - University of Queensland. Available at: https://qbi.uq.edu.au/brain-basics/brain/brain-physiology/action-potentials-and-synapses (Accessed: 01 December 2024). Abbott, A., L. (2001) ‘Calcium and the control of mammalian cortical granule exocytosis’, Frontiers in Bioscience, 6(1), p. d792. doi:10.2741/abbott. Vaz Martins, T. and Livina, V.N. (2019) What drives symbiotic calcium signalling in legumes? insights and challenges of imaging, International journal of molecular sciences. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6539980/#:~:text=Currently%2C%20two%20different%20calcium%20signals,formation%20of%20the%20root%20nodule%2C (Accessed: 01 December 2024). Lew, R.R. (2011) ‘How does a hypha grow? the biophysics of pressurized growth in fungi’, Nature Reviews Microbiology, 9(7), pp. 509–518. doi:10.1038/nrmicro2591. Project Gallery