Latest news with #IgA
News18
5 days ago
- Health
- News18
Breastfeeding And Immunity: How Breast Milk Protects Newborns From Infections
Last Updated: Breast milk performs a central function in the development and support of a newborn's immune system. It is loaded with antibodies, white blood cells, and essential nutrients. When it comes to protecting a newborn, nature has its own superpower – breast milk. Far more than just nutrition, it's a living, dynamic fluid that shapes a baby's immune system from the very first feed. 'Breast milk works as a first vaccine for babies at their most vulnerable time and provides protection against infection for a lifetime," says Dr. Kavitha Kovi, Head of Department – Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster Women & Children Hospital, Bengaluru. The earliest form of breast milk, colostrum, is often called liquid gold – and for good reason. Produced in the first two to three days after birth, this nutrient-rich, yellowish milk is packed with antibodies, white blood cells, and growth factors. 'Colostrum is one of the most powerful immune agents in breast milk," Dr. Kovi explains. 'It forms a blockade in the gut of the baby so harmful bacteria and viruses cannot cross over into the bloodstream." This initial dose doesn't just feed the baby – it fortifies them against infections at a time when they're most vulnerable. Antibodies Tailor-Made for the Baby's World One of breast milk's star defenders is secretory Immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that coats the baby's respiratory and intestinal tracts. 'IgA antibodies are specific to the germs a mother encounters," Dr. Kovi notes. 'The first thing that happens when a mother is sick or exposed to illness is the production of IgA antibodies, and these are passed on to the baby through breast milk." This means the baby's immune protection is continually updated to match the environment they share with their mother. Breast milk is also rich in enzymes, beneficial bacteria, anti-inflammatory compounds, and hormones that nurture the infant's gut microbiome. 'A healthy gut is central to strong immunity," Dr. Kovi says. 'Infants breastfed up to one year are less susceptible to diarrhea, respiratory infections, and ear infections compared to formula-fed children." Long-Term Protection Against Chronic Illness The benefits of breastfeeding extend well beyond infancy. Studies have shown that breastfed children have a lower risk of developing asthma, allergies, type 1 diabetes, and other autoimmune conditions later in life. 'Autoimmune diseases take a back seat in children who were breastfed – and they respond amazingly well to vaccines," Dr. Kovi points out. Nature's Custom-Made Immunity Booster In essence, breast milk is a bespoke, immunity-boosting formula that no lab can replicate. 'Supporting and promoting breastfeeding, particularly in the first few months, is one of the most effective ways to give a child the best start in life," says Dr. Kovi. It's a gift from mother to child – a shield of antibodies, nutrients, and love. First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Business Upturn
05-08-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Purespring Therapeutics receives UK CTA approval for Phase I/II clinical trial of PS-002 in patients with primary IgA nephropathy (IgAN)
First patient in Phase I/II clinical trial expected to be enrolled in Q4 2025 UK Clinical Trial Application (CTA) approval shortly follows U.S. IND clearance and granting of European Medicine Agency (EMA) orphan drug designation, enabling readiness for initiation across sites in both the U.S. and Europe PS-002, Purespring's lead precision nephrology programme, targets the complement pathway known to be a driver of IgA nephropathy and is supported by a wealth of preclinical data London – 5 August 2025 – Purespring Therapeutics, a precision nephrology company focused on transforming the treatment of kidney diseases, today announces that its UK Clinical Trial Application (CTA) for a planned Phase I/II study of PS-002, Purespring's lead programme, in patients with IgA nephropathy (IgAN) has been approved by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), the NHS Health Research Authority (HRA) and Research Ethics Committee (REC). Advertisement 'The CTA approval for our Phase I/II clinical trial of PS-002 represents another key milestone as we complete our transition to a clinical-stage precision nephrology company,' said Haseeb Ahmad, Purespring's Chief Executive Officer. 'Building on the recent FDA IND clearance and EMA orphan drug designation, this further validates the potential of our podocyte-targeting approach to go beyond symptom management and directly target kidney disease at its source. Looking ahead, we are committed to working closely with regulators and sites across the U.S. and Europe with the view to expand the therapeutic options available for people living with IgAN.' PS-002 was developed to target the underlying cause of many kidney diseases by modulating complement activation in the kidney via precision targeting of podocytes. The programme is initially focused on the treatment of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), a rare and chronic autoimmune kidney disease that primarily affects young adults. In IgAN, aberrant immunoglobin A (IgA) protein becomes trapped in the kidney's filters, known as the glomeruli, causing complement activation, inflammation, damage and scarring. A significant proportion of affected patients will go on to develop kidney failure despite currently available therapies. The Phase I/II clinical trial, which is expected to enroll its first patient in Q4 2025, will evaluate local administration of PS-002 to treat IgAN. In the Phase 1 part of the Phase I/II study, the main read-outs will be safety parameters, which, together with efficacy biomarkers, will be leveraged to select a dose for the Phase 2 part of the study. This second phase will be used to further define the safety profile and provide early markers of efficacy. Enabled by this latest regulatory approval and the recent U.S. IND clearance, as announced in July 2025, the Phase I/II study will recruit patients across the U.S. and Europe. For further information, contact: Purespring: Peter Mulcahy [email protected] +44 (0)20 3855 6324 LinkedIn ICR Healthcare Amber Fennell, Sarah Elton-Farr [email protected] Notes to Editors About Purespring Purespring is developing therapies to halt or prevent kidney disease, one of humankind's most poorly treated disease areas. Founded on the work of Professor Moin Saleem, Professor of Paediatric Renal Medicine at the University of Bristol, Purespring is the first company to successfully treat kidney disease by targeting the podocyte, a specialised cell that is implicated in the majority of renal disease. Purespring's platform approach enables streamlined gene therapy development for both acquired and genetic renal diseases, offering the potential to halt, reverse and even cure both rare and common kidney diseases. The Company currently has a pipeline of programmes in development including the lead asset for treatment of IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) and other complement mediated kidney disease. The Company also has programmes for disease caused by mutations in the gene NPHS2, as well as other monogenic glomerular kidney diseases. Based in London, the Purespring team combines world-leading expertise in podocyte biology and kidney disease with a wealth of experience in gene therapies, anchored in a culture of diversity, creativity and delivery. Purespring is backed by leading biotech investors, including Syncona Limited, Sofinnova Partners, Gilde Healthcare, Forbion, and the British Business Bank and has raised £115m ($149m) to date. For more information please visit: and follow us on LinkedIn. Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.
Time of India
04-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Expert debunks Tamannaah Bhatia's morning saliva aka 'Thook' remedy for pimples; here's the truth
Actor Tamannaah Bhatia is once again making headlines because of her recent candid interview. During the interview with Lallantop, the actress opened up about a number of things, from her song 'Aaj Ki Raat' from the movie Stree 2 to her linkup rumours with cricketer Virat Kohli, but one thing that has stirred curiosity among netizens is her unconventional skincare tip. In the podcast, Bhatia revealed that she uses her own saliva to treat pimples, and according to her, this is a natural remedy, claiming it works best when applied first thing in the morning. But is it a safe practice? Let's find out what our experts say. During the interview, when asked about her go-to hack to get rid of the pimples, she replied, saying something that no one expected. She said, "Spit, thook." The reply instantly left the host and audience in splits, but the actor said, "It works, but the morning spit, which is before brushing." But what's the science behind it? A lot of people have been talking about it lately. Morning saliva—some say it cures acne. Sounds odd? Maybe. But let's unpack this. Can saliva fix pimples or acne? What's the science behind it? Saliva isn't just spit. "It's complex. Saliva contains enzymes, antibodies, proteins, electrolytes, and even mucus. While lysozyme in our saliva is one of the stars, and it's an enzyme with an antibacterial punch," explains Dr. Megha Bhatt, board-certified aesthetic injector at Equos Clinic. "There's also IgA—an antibody that helps defend against germs sneaking into your body. This is present inside the mouth; these work well. They keep things in check, and they help in healing the tiny wounds," she added. But can they fight acne on your face? That's another story. What's Acne Really About? Acne's not just about dirt. "It's a mess of oil, clogged pores, inflammation, and bacteria. But the main culprit is Cutibacterium acnes. It lives on your skin and thrives in oil, triggering inflammation; real acne treatments target all that. They dry excess oil, clear the pores, kill bacteria, and calm the skin," says Dr. Bhatt. According to Dr. Bhatt, the saliva is not really built for that. Lysozyme might kill some bacteria, but in your saliva, the amount is super low, nowhere near what acne meds offer. The bigger problem The internet is full of skincare 'hacks': morning spit, garlic masks, and toothpaste. Some of it sounds smart, but some does not so much. Dr. Bhatt says natural remedies aren't always safe or effective. Just because your cousin swears it worked doesn't mean it will for you. Skin's different, and acne's not something you want to gamble with. 'The truth is, there's no solid study saying saliva treats acne. No dermatologist will recommend it seriously. I mean, we study this stuff for years,' adds Dr Bhatt. So what should you do? If you're fighting acne: Use gentle cleansers. Try ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. See a dermatologist if it's stubborn. Avoid picking, squeezing, or spitting on your pimples (literally). Quick home remedies for acne treatment Acne is annoying, painful, and sometimes embarrassing. So people try everything. From over-the-counter creams to squeezing lemons onto their faces. But are home remedies really effective? Or just another Pinterest myth? Let's dig in, not too deep but just enough. 1. Tea Tree Oil: Tiny but Mighty You have probably heard of tea tree oil. It's kind of a star in the natural skincare world. Why? "Because it's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Basically, it targets the same bacteria that cause acne, Cutibacterium acnes (formerly P. acnes)," says Dr. Shilpi Behl, Aesthetic specialist, skincare adept, or skincare expert. According to a 2019 study review, tea tree oil products helped reduce breakouts. That's good news. But one needs to be careful. It is strong in texture; hence, never slap it on your face directly. Always mix with a carrier oil, or else your skin might just throw a fit. 2. Aloe Vera: Straight from Grandma's Garden Your grandma was right. That weird, slimy plant actually helps. Aloe vera is soothing. It's antibacterial. It cools your skin down when it's flaring up like an angry tomato. One study even found it reduced acne lesions when paired with other treatments. According to Dr. Behl, while it may not be a miracle by itself, it's still a solid team player. Pro tip? Use the gel fresh from the leaf. Not the green-coloured one from some sketchy bottle. 3. Honey: Sticky but Sweet People have been using honey for centuries on wounds. Why not acne? Honey contains antioxidants and has mild antibacterial powers. It's especially helpful for calming inflamed skin and might help unclog pores. Some skincare experts like it, and some don't. Science hasn't given a definite nod yet. But hey, if it works for you, great. Just make sure it's raw or manuka honey. Not the sugary stuff you squeeze onto toast. Also, do a patch test, always. No shortcuts here. 4. Green Tea: Sip It. Apply it. Love it? Green tea has polyphenols—big word, but just think of them as skin saviours. They fight free radicals, reduce oil, and may help with inflammation. One study found up to an 89 per cent reduction in whiteheads and blackheads when green tea extract was used for 8 weeks. That's… a lot. You can apply cooled green tea directly as a toner or buy products with green tea extract. Bonus? It smells kind of refreshing, too. Final Thoughts (from someone who sees acne every single day). Home remedies can help, but only sometimes. They're gentle, cheap, and natural, but they're not magic potions. If your acne is persistent or severe, or starting to scar, don't wait. Get immediate help. "And no, toothpaste is not a treatment. Please, stop with that," warns Dr. Behl. Skin is complex, so is acne; hence, what works for one may not work for another. If you're not sure, talk to a skincare expert. That's literally what we're here for. FAQs Q. Is morning saliva good for pimples? According to the ToI report, no, morning saliva is not a scientifically proven or recommended treatment for pimples. Q. Does applying saliva on the face benefit? Saliva shows effective anti-acne activity by inhibiting the growth and proliferation of acne-causing bacteria.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
10 surprising symptoms of Celiac disease you might be ignoring
Celiac disease , often thought of as causing only digestive issues like bloating, diarrhea, or abdominal pain, affects approximately 1% of the global population. While the disease is common, many cases remain undiagnosed. However, this autoimmune disorder, triggered by gluten in wheat, rye, and barley, can manifest in dozens of unexpected ways. If left undiagnosed, it can silently contribute to long-term complications like osteoporosis, neurological decline, and infertility. Unchecked celiac disease often results in symptoms affecting your skin, bones, nervous system, reproductive health, and more. However, recognizing common signs, an early diagnosis, and a strict gluten-free diet can transform your quality of life, fixing hidden health problems and preventing serious long-term complications. In this article, we'll unveil ten surprising yet telling symptoms of celiac disease that you may unknowingly be ignoring. Dermatitis Herpetiformis Unlike eczema or psoriasis, dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is unique to celiac disease: small, intensely itchy clusters of blisters appear on elbows, knees, scalp, or buttocks. These itchy blistering rashes happen due to IgA antibody deposits in the skin, triggered by gluten. Though only about 5-10% of patients exhibit DH, it's a definitive cutaneous marker of underlying gluten-triggered autoimmunity, and often clears completely on a gluten-free diet. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo Iron‑deficiency anemia and consistent fatigue Iron is absorbed in the part of the small intestine typically damaged by celiac disease. Malabsorption in the damaged upper small intestine inhibits iron absorption, leading to chronic iron-deficiency anemia. This common yet often overlooked effect paints a portrait of persistent fatigue, pale complexion, shortness of breath, and weakness. In fact, as per the Celiac Disease Foundation , nearly 11% of unexplained iron-deficiency anemia cases are later diagnosed as celiac disease. Addressing anemia without investigating underlying causes can delay an important diagnosis. Peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness, burning) According to the Mayo Clinic , up to 10% of celiac patients experience peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include tingling, burning, or numbness in the hands and feet, even when no digestive signs are present. According to a 2021 study , the prevalence may be even higher (up to 42%) in untreated cases and is thought to stem from nutrient malabsorption and immune-mediated nerve damage. Migraines, headaches, and brain fog Frequent headaches, migraines, and cognitive haziness, or ' brain fog ', are surprisingly common symptoms in the case of celiac disease, which people tend to ignore. Chronic inflammation, nutrient deficiencies (like B vitamins), and gluten-related neurological impacts can dull concentration and memory. These neurological symptoms often improve substantially on a gluten-free diet. Joint pain and arthralgia This one's to be taken note of. Many patients report joint aches or stiffness, sometimes diagnosed as arthritis. Arthralgia, or joint pain and stiffness, often misdiagnosed as arthritis, can be the result of systemic immune inflammation caused by gluten exposure. As per a 2018 study , nearly 30% of patients report joint improvement after eliminating gluten. Bone density loss, osteoporosis, and fracture risk In celiac disease, damage to the small intestine reduces calcium and vitamin D absorption, compromising bone health , leading to an elevated risk of osteomalacia, osteopenia, osteoporosis, and fractures, even in younger adults. Many individuals don't recognize bone weakness until bone scans reveal it. Maintaining strong bones requires both nutrition and gluten removal. Reproductive challenges (infertility, miscarriage, hormonal irregularities) Malabsorption and chronic inflammation can impair reproductive health. Women with undiagnosed celiac may experience irregular cycles, amenorrhea, infertility, or recurrent miscarriages. As the Mayo Clinic suggests, adhering to a gluten-free diet can normalize fertility and reduce pregnancy complications. Oral health issues (canker sores and enamel defects) These are not common oral issues we are talking about that come to pay us a vist once in a while. Persistent mouth ulcers, burning tongue (atrophic glossitis), and serious dental enamel problems like pitting or translucent spots are often associated with celiac disease due to malabsorption of vitamins B12, folate, and minerals. In children, enamel defects may even signal undiagnosed celiac long before other symptoms emerge. Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, cognitive decline) This is more than simple mood swings. Celiac disease, as per research , is increasingly linked to mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, ADHD-like attention problems, and even insomnia. These neuropsychiatric symptoms may result from autoimmune processes, nutrient depletion, or chronic inflammation. Many individuals report improved mood and mental clarity post-diagnosis. Vertigo, balance issues, and ataxia Gluten-related neurological impacts aren't limited to headaches. Conditions like gluten ataxia , characterized by poor coordination, dizziness, involuntary eye movements, and balance issues, can occur in celiac sufferers. If left untreated, motor dysfunction may become permanent. Why early detection is important: Celiac disease, estimated to affect up to 1% of people worldwide, remains undiagnosed in up to 70–80% cases, often because they don't show classic digestive complaints. These 'non-classic' symptoms can manifest across multiple systems. Persistent unexplained issues in any of these areas indicate a celiac evaluation, which might include serology tests (tTG-IgA) and confirmatory small-bowel biopsy. If you endure persistent, unexplained symptoms, even in the absence of digestive distress, don't overlook celiac disease. Consult with a healthcare provider and get tested. Early diagnosis and a strict gluten-free diet can transform your quality of life, fixing hidden health problems and preventing serious long-term complications. Heart Failure Warning: 4 Symptoms You Might Be Overlooking
Yahoo
01-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA approves Takeda's Gammagard liquid ERC for primary immunodeficiency
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Takeda's new immunoglobulin (IG) therapy, Gammagard liquid ERC [immune globulin infusion (human)], to treat primary immunodeficiency (PI) in individuals aged two years and above. PI is typically caused by genetic mutations that can be passed down through families. Symptoms vary widely and often include recurring or long-lasting infections. Gammagard liquid ERC is the only ready-to-use liquid IG therapy with less than or equal to 2µ/ml two micrograms per millilitre of Immunoglobulin A (IgA) in a 10% solution, and can be administered either intravenously or subcutaneously. Takeda plasma-derived therapies business unit research and development senior vice-president and head Kristina Allikmets stated: 'The approval of Gammagard liquid ERC reinforces our commitment to supporting individualised treatment approaches for people with primary immunodeficiency, including a therapeutic option that has the lowest IgA content of any ready-to-use liquid immunoglobulin therapy, and can be administered intravenously or subcutaneously. 'Gammagard liquid ERC uses the same state-of-the-art manufacturing process as our other ready-to-use liquid immunoglobulin formulations and is aligned with our forward-looking strategy to prioritise reliable supply while offering a broad range of immunoglobulin therapies to address varied patient needs.' Takeda anticipates commencing commercialisation efforts for Gammagard liquid ERC in the US by 2026, with plans to follow suit in the European Union (EU) by 2027. Gammagard liquid ERC is approved under the brand name Deqsiga by the European Medicines Agency. In June 2025, the European Commission authorised Takeda's Adcetris (brentuximab vedotin), an antibody-drug conjugate, combined with chemotherapy for treating adults who are newly diagnosed with Stage IIb Hodgkin's lymphoma with risk factors or at Stage III/IV. "FDA approves Takeda's Gammagard liquid ERC for primary immunodeficiency" was originally created and published by Pharmaceutical Technology, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
