• UGI USER
  • Jun 04, 2024
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“ICMR SEEKS PARTNERS FOR PEDIATRIC HYDROXYUREA FORMULATION FOR SICKLE CELL”

Why in the news?

  • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) seeks partners to develop and commercialize a low-dose or pediatric oral formulation of hydroxyurea for treating sickle cell disease, addressing the lack of appropriate doses for pediatric patients.
  • With over 20 million sickle cell disease cases in India, the initiative aims to improve treatment accessibility and accuracy, reducing dose-related side effects and enhancing the effectiveness of hydroxyurea therapy.
source:prepladder

About Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR):

  • The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is India’s apex body for biomedical research.
  • Established in 1911 as the Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA).
  • Renamed as ICMR in 1949.
  • Funded by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research.
  • Responsible for formulating, coordinating, and promoting biomedical research in India.
Understanding sickle Cell Disease (SCD):

  • SCD is an inherited red blood cell (RBC) disorder.
  • Normal RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen.Healthy RBCs are round and flexible.
  • In SCD, hemoglobin is abnormal, causing RBCs to become hard and sticky. The abnormal RBCs take on a C-shaped, sickle-like form.
  • Symptoms: chronic anemia, painful episodes, delayed growth, and puberty.
  • Treatment options include blood transfusions, and bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.
  • Medication: hydroxyurea.

About Hemoglobin:

  • Type: Globular protein found in red blood cells (RBCs).
  • Transports oxygen from the lungs to tissues in the form of “deoxyhemoglobin.”
  • Takes carbon dioxide (CO₂) from tissues back to the lungs.
  • Responsible for the red color of blood.

What are Chondrocytes:

  • Type: Cells that make up cartilage, a type of connective tissue.
  • Commonly located in vertebrae and joints.
  • Chondrocytes can be reprogrammed into stem cells to repair cartilage injuries.

Functions:

  • Provide strength and flexibility.
  • Act as a cushion and shock absorber.
  • Help reduce friction between bones and other tissues.

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