In a landmark moment for India's space ambitions, Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla has blasted off to the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission , marking the country's return to human spaceflight after a 41-year hiatus . This historic launch from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida has not only reignited national pride but also officially kickstarted India’s human spaceflight programme . The mission, operated by Axiom Space , includes a four-member international crew that will spend 14 days in orbit , conducting scientific research, outreach programs, and various commercial activities. This momentous occasion places India among a select group of nations capable of sending humans into space and reflects the growing prowess of the Indian space sector . A New Chapter: Shubhanshu Shukla and India’s Astronautical Comeback The last Indian to go to space was Rakesh Sharma in 1984, aboard the Soviet spacecraft Soyuz T-11. Now, in 2025, Shubhanshu...
Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Revolutionary Drug Delivery Breakthrough
Innovative Drug Delivery System for RA
- Targeted Treatment: Researchers have developed a self-actuating drug delivery system to combat Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) by delivering medication precisely to inflamed joints.
- Microsphere Technology:
- The system uses specially designed microspheres that are loaded with methotrexate, a widely used anti-rheumatic drug.
- These microspheres remain inactive until they detect inflammation, releasing the drug only when needed.
- This reduces side effects and increases treatment efficiency.
About Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Definition: RA is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, primarily affecting joints.
- Symptoms:
- Persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite.
- Severe cases can lead to joint deformity and loss of mobility.
- Commonly Affected Areas:
- Joints: Wrists, hands, elbows, shoulders, knees, feet, spine, and jaw.
- Can also impact other organs in severe cases.
Significance of This Research
- More Effective Treatment: Unlike traditional treatments, which require continuous drug intake, this system only activates in response to inflammation, ensuring precise drug delivery.
- Reduced Side Effects: Methotrexate, while effective, has side effects like liver toxicity and immunosuppression. By targeting only affected joints, the risk of systemic side effects is minimized.
- Paving the Way for Future Innovations: This approach could revolutionize autoimmune disease treatment, leading to similar therapies for conditions like psoriasis and lupus.