Current affairs 4th August 2025 By Right IAS
Bio-fortified potatoes
Bio-fortified potatoes, with added iron content, will soon be available in Indian markets. What is a Biofortified Potato? A biofortified potato is a variety of potato that has been naturally improved through breeding techniques to contain higher levels of essential nutrients such as: Iron Zinc Anthocyanins (natural antioxidants) Vitamin C
How it is Developed?
Not genetically modified (non-GMO). Developed using conventional breeding and selection techniques. Scientists cross high-nutrient wild potato varieties with popular cultivars to improve nutritional quality without compromising yield, taste, or storability
Why Biofortified Potatoes Matter?
Tackle Malnutrition: Address “hidden hunger” micronutrient deficiencies common in India. Boost Farmer Income: Many are high-yielding, disease-resistant, and climate-resilient. Sustainable Nutrition: Can provide nutrients naturally through regular diets, especially to rural and tribal populations. Supports National Missions: Like Poshan Abhiyaan, National Biofortification Mission.
Harnessing AI to Boost Immunity
In a groundbreaking study published in Cell, a team of Harvard scientists has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to design proteins that significantly enhance the immune system’s ability to fight diseases, including cancer and viral infections. Importance of T Cells in Immunity T cells play a pivotal role in our immune response. When faced with a viral infection or cancer, the body needs to ramp up T cell production to mount an effective defence. However, activating the Notch signalling pathway, which is necessary for this process, has been a significant challenge until now. How AI is Revolutionizing Protein Design To tackle this challenge, the researchers developed a library of custom-designed soluble Notch agonists. They systematically tested these agonists for their ability to activate the Notch pathway and support T cell development and function. The use of AI-driven protein design technologies was a game-changer, allowing for rapid and efficient development of these activators.
What is Notch signalling?
Notch signalling is a cell-to-cell communication system that plays a crucial role in cellular differentiation and is essential for transforming immune progenitors into T cells.
How do T cells function in the immune system?
T cells are vital for the immune response, helping to identify and destroy infected or cancerous cells. What are Notch agonists? Notch agonists are molecules designed to activate the Notch signalling pathway, promoting T cell development and function.
