Context:
Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology-Guwahati (IIT-G) and the Bose Institute, Kolkata have developed an advanced injectable hydrogel for localised cancer treatment.
About Hydrogels:
- Hydrogel: Water-based, 3D polymer network that absorbs and retains fluids.
- Controlled Drug Release: Acts as a stable reservoir for anti-cancer drugs, releasing them in a controlled manner while sparing healthy cells from harm.
- Sources: Natural or synthetic hydrogels.
- Examples: Cellulose, chitosan, collagen, alginate, agarose, hyaluronic acid, gelatin, and fibrin.
- Key Features:
- Made of ultra-short peptides that are biocompatible and biodegradable.
- Mimics living tissues due to its water-based, 3D polymer structure.
- Enhances drug uptake by cancer cells, induces cell cycle arrest, and promotes cell death.
- Offers controlled release of anti-cancer drugs, protecting healthy cells.
- How It Works:
- Precision Drug Delivery: Releases drugs directly at the tumor site, minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
- Responsive to Tumor Environment: Triggers drug release in response to high levels of glutathione (GSH), abundant in tumor cells.
Applications of Hydrogels:
- Medical:
- Controlled drug delivery.
- Promotes healing, prevents infections, and keeps wounds moist.
- Hygiene Products:
- Smooth texture in personal care products.
- Keeps skin hydrated.
- Agriculture:
- Aids plant growth by absorbing water in the soil.
- Environmental Uses:
- Removes contaminated elements from water.
- Cleans up oil spills.
- Industrial Uses:
- Used in sensors and actuators responsive to pH, humidity, or temperature changes.
- Stores energy by holding water.
Source: TH
Previous Year Question
With reference to the treatment of cancerous tumours, a tool called cyberknife has been making the news. In this context, which one of the following statements is not correct?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2010 Prelims]
(a) It is a robotic image guided system
(b) It delivers an extremely precise dose of radiation
(c) It has the capability of achieving sub-millimetre accuracy
(d) It can map the spread of tumour in the body
Answer: (d)