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...
The Hidden DNA That Fuels Cancer: How Extrachromosomal DNA Drives Tumor Progression and Drug Resistance
In the relentless battle against cancer, scientists are continuously uncovering new mechanisms that allow tumors to grow and evade treatment. One of the most groundbreaking discoveries in recent years is the role of extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) in promoting cancer progression and drug resistance. Recently, three landmark studies published in Nature have shed light on how ecDNA contributes to the aggressive nature of tumors and their ability to resist chemotherapy. In this, we will explore the significance of ecDNA in cancer biology, how it drives drug resistance, and what these findings mean for future treatments. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions to help demystify this complex topic. What Is Extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA)? Extrachromosomal DNA refers to DNA fragments that exist outside the traditional chromosomal structure within the cell nucleus. Unlike chromosomal DNA, ecDNA is not bound to the typical linear chromosomes but instead forms circular or other irregular s...