Latest news with #PrasadRao
The Hindu
10-06-2025
- Health
- The Hindu
Scientists uncover molecular clue to slow down reproductive aging
Researchers at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) have made a significant discovery that could pave the way for new strategies to extend female fertility. Led by Prasad Rao from NIAB's Laboratory of Molecular Reproduction and Aging, the team has uncovered a molecular clue that appears to slow down reproductive aging. The scientific team, using both live mouse models and cultured goat ovaries, found that reducing the activity of a cellular protein called 'Cathepsin B' (Cat B) helps preserve the ovarian reserve. This ovarian reserve is the finite pool of egg cells (oocytes) that female mammals are born with. Unlike sperm, these crucial egg cells cannot be regenerated. The findings are important since, unlike sperm, oocytes cannot be regenerated. 'Over time, the quantity and quality of these eggs naturally decline due to factors like oxidative stress, inflammation and general cellular wear. This process accelerates with age. 'Cat B,' a protein-degrading enzyme, seems to be a key driver of this decline. By lowering its levels, we may be able to delay egg loss, effectively extending fertility naturally,' said The scientist team, which includes Aradhana Mohanty, Anjali Kumari, Lava Kumar S., Ajith Kumar, Pravin Birajdar, Rohit Beniwal, Mohd Athar and Kiran Kumar P., pointed out that the implications go far beyond the laboratory. It is because across India's rural heartlands and urban hospitals, fertility is quietly becoming a shared crisis. As both livestock and women age, their ability to reproduce declines, with significant biological and economic consequences, said researchers. In humans, fertility begins to decline in the early 30s, with a sharper drop in the 40s, reducing chances of conception and increasing the risk of miscarriage or chromosomal disorders. While assisted reproductive technologies like IVF provide options, they are often costly, invasive and less effective in older women. A safe, biological method to slow ovarian ageing could revolutionise fertility preservation for millions. For farmers, a simple intervention to extend reproductive lifespan of livestock could improve herd productivity, reduce stray cattle populations, and support the incomes of smallholder farmers who form the backbone of Indian agriculture. This is a rare moment where science serves both the farm and the family. From barns to birthing rooms, this discovery bridges animal science and human medicine, promising a future where age is no longer a barrier to reproduction, said researchers. For a country navigating the twin challenges of rural sustainability and reproductive health, the implications are profound and hopeful, said NIAB director G. Taru Sharma. The research results were published in the latest issue of 'Aging Cell'.
Hans India
23-05-2025
- Business
- Hans India
Efforts underway to set up Mango Board in Chittoor: Prasada Rao
Chittoor: Chittoor MP Daggumalla Prasad Rao stated that efforts are underway to establish a dedicated Mango Board in the district to support mango farmers, particularly those cultivating the Totapuri variety. He was speaking at a meeting of public representatives, officials, mango farmers and pulp industries representatives in Chittoor on Thursday which focused on ensuring a remunerative price for the Totapuri mango, which is widely cultivated in the region. During the meeting, farmers and processing company owners engaged in an in-depth discussion about the challenges they face. MP Prasad Rao emphasised that Chittoor district has a significant acreage under mango cultivation, particularly the Totapuri variety, which is essential for processing industries. He said that proposals for the establishment of a Mango Board have already been submitted to the concerned departments, and the matter has also been brought to the attention of the Union Minister. District Collector Sumit Kumar underlined the importance of coordination between farmers and processing companies during the mango season, especially regarding the pricing of the Totapuri variety. He added that farmers will be given priority in determining fair prices and that efforts will be made to ensure harmonious functioning of both agricultural and processing sectors with mutual support. Puthalapattu MLA K Murali Mohan stressed the need for long-term solutions rather than seasonal discussions. He also urged processing companies to support farmers in collaboration with the government. MLAs G Jagan Mohan (Chittoor) and Gali Bhanu Prakash (Nagari) also addressed the gathering. Farmers appealed to the government to ensure a remunerative price for the Totapuri variety and suggested linking mango cultivation with employment guarantee schemes. They also proposed exploring the possibility of distributing mango juice in local temples as a means to promote consumption. Representatives from processing companies also shared their views.
Hans India
14-05-2025
- General
- Hans India
Collector calls for promoting PMDS on a large scale
Tirupati: District Collector Dr S Venkateswar has instructed agriculture and horticulture officials to take up Pre-Monsoon Dry Sowing (PMDS) extensively across the district to improve soil health and boost Kharif crop yields. He held a review meeting with the officials on Tuesday to assess the progress and preparedness for PMDS implementation. During the meeting, the Collector inspected the PMDS seed kits and discussed the sowing process with the concerned officers. He stated that PMDS offers multiple benefits to farmers and informed that each kit comprises seeds of 30 different crops. Farmers are advised to sow 10–15 kilograms of seeds per acre, and a target of 50,000 kits has been set for distribution ahead of the Kharif season. He emphasized that every farmer should take up PMDS between the mango harvest and paddy transplantation periods to ensure better productivity. The Collector highlighted that PMDS improves soil fertility, promotes biodiversity, and increases organic carbon levels among other benefits. He further directed officials to encourage PMDS even in non-APCNF villages and ensure that at least 25 seed kits are cultivated under each gram panchayat. District Agriculture Officer Prasad Rao, Horticulture Officer Dasaratharami Reddy, and Project Manager A Shanmugam were present in the meeting.
