CANNABIS COMPOUND (THCBD) WITH ANTIBIOTIC EFFECTS
Why in the News?
- Researchers at CSIR-IIIM Jammu identify TetraHydroCannaBiDiol (THCBD), a compound from cannabis, with potent antibiotic effects.
- THCBD shows efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus, a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
- Staphylococcus aureus, especially MRSA strain, challenges existing antibiotics, necessitating alternative solutions.
Source: StoryMD
About Antibiotic Resistance (AMR):
- Definition: AMR refers to microbes, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, becoming resistant to the effects of medicines.
- Risk Factors: Overuse and misuse of antibiotics contribute to AMR.
- Consequences: Reduced effectiveness of standard treatments, increased disease spread, and higher mortality rates.
- Global Concern : AMR poses a global health threat as microbes become resistant to medicines, leading to increased disease spread and deaths.
What are Antibiotics ?
Antibiotics are medications that inhibit or kill bacteria, alleviating bacterial infections. They play a crucial role in treating various diseases and preventing the spread of harmful bacteria.
About Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
CSIR Overview: · Largest R&D organization in India. · Established in September 1942, headquartered in New Delhi. · Funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology. · Operates autonomously under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. Organizational Structure: · President: Prime Minister of India (Ex-officio). · Vice President: Union Minister of Science and Technology (Ex-officio). · Governing Body: Headed by the Director-General. · Other members serve three-year terms. |