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GS Paper: GS3-17.Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, Robotics, Nano-technology, Bio-technology and issues relating to Intellectual Property Rights.

  • Bacterial cause behind Mass Starfish Deaths

    Why in the News?

    Since 2013, over 5 billion starfish have died along North America’s Pacific coast due to a wasting disease now linked to Vibrio pectenicida, a cholera-related bacterium.

    Bacterial cause behind Mass Starfish Deaths

    About Starfish (Sea Stars):

    • Taxonomy: Belong to phylum Echinodermata; exclusively marine organisms.
    • Species: Brisingida, Forcipulatida, Velatida, Valvatida, Spinuloside
    • Body Structure:
      • Radial symmetry (adults), bilateral symmetry (larvae)
      • Calcareous exoskeleton for protection
      • Water vascular system for respiration and circulation
    • Unique Features:
      • Regeneration: Can regrow lost limbs
      • No blood or brain: Seawater circulates nutrients
      • Eyespots: At arm tips, help sense light
      • Tough skin: Made of calcium carbonate
    • Feeding: Carnivorous, detritivorous, and scavengers

    Reasons for Mass Deaths (2013–2025):

    • Causal Agent: Identified in 2025 as Vibrio pectenicida, a bacterium related to cholera-causing strains.
    • Symptoms: Limb detachment; Tissue disintegration; Melting into a pile of gunk.
    • Most Affected Species: Sunflower sea stars, which saw a 90% population decline.
    • Geographical Spread: Along the Pacific coast from Alaska to Mexico.
    • Ecological Consequences:
      • Starfish are keystone predators, especially of sea urchins.
      • Their decline led to urchin population explosions, which overgrazed kelp forests.
      • Resulted in biodiversity loss and reduced carbon sequestration.
    [UPSC 2012] Vultures which used to be very common in Indian countryside some years ago are rarely seen nowadays. This is attributed to:

    (a) the destruction of their nesting sites by new invasive species disease among them (b) a drug used by cattle owners for treating their diseased cattle persistent and fatal (c) scarcity of food available to them (d) a widespread, persistent and fatal disease among them

     

  • Rhisotope Project

    Why in the News?

    In a move to combat rhino poaching, the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, supported by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has launched the Rhisotope Project.

    What is Rhisotope Project? 

    • Launched By: University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, with support from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
    • Initiation: Concept began in 2021; formally launched in July 2024.
    • Objective: Prevent rhino poaching by making horns traceable and unsuitable for illegal trade.
    • Pilot Site: Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, South Africa.
    • Pilot Implementation: 20 rhinos injected with radioisotopes (exact isotope remains undisclosed) for testing.

    How the Isotope Tagging Works?

    • Isotope Basics: Uses radioactive isotopes that emit detectable radiation as they decay.
    • Injection Method: A small hole is drilled into the horn; a low dose of isotope is inserted safely.
    • Detection Mechanism: Radiation Portal Monitors at ports can detect tagged horns—even inside 40-foot containers, as proven using 3D-printed horn simulations.

     

    Significance:

    • Safety Assurance: No damage to rhinos observed; cytological tests showed no cellular or physiological harm.
    • Impact on Illegal Trade: Horn becomes detectable, unusable, and toxic for illegal human consumption.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Asiatic lion is naturally found In India only.     2. Double-humped camel is naturally found in India only.     3. One-horned rhinoceros is naturally found in India only.

    Which of the statements given above is / are correct?”

    Options:   (a) 1 only *  (b) 2 only   (c) 1 and 3 only    (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • AI-designed Proteins to generate Immune Cells

    Why in the News?

    Harvard Scientists have recently used AI to design synthetic proteins that activate T Cells, offering a new path for cancer treatment and vaccine development.

    What are T Cells?

    • They are a type of white blood cell that play a central role in the immune system.
    • Types of T Cells:
      • Helper T cells (CD4+): Activate and direct other immune cells.
      • Killer T cells (CD8+): Destroy infected or cancerous cells.
      • Memory T cells: “Remember” past invaders for faster response in the future.

    About the Study:

    • Used artificial intelligence (AI) to design soluble proteins that activate ‘Notch Signalling’, a key immune pathway.
      • These are synthetic molecular activators designed using advanced AI-driven protein design technologies.
    • Unlike older lab-only methods, these proteins work inside the body (in vivo) and in lab settings.
    • Result: Significant boost in T cell production from human progenitor cells.

    What is Notch Signalling?

    • A cell-to-cell signalling system that guides cell development.
    • Crucial for forming T cells, which fight infections and cancers.
    • No reliable therapeutic activator existed earlier.

    Key Benefits Offered:

    • Mass T Cell Generation: Meets clinical needs for CAR T Cell Therapy.
    • Vaccine Support: Boosted Memory T cells in mice, improving long-term immunity.
    • Cancer Therapy: Helps fight immune-suppressive tumour environments.
    • Scalable & Soluble: Works in humans, not just in lab dishes.
    • AI in Medicine: Shows AI’s growing role in designing immune therapies.
    [UPSC 2022] Which one of the following statements best describes the role of B cells and T cells in the human body?

    Options: (a) They protect the body from environmental allergens.

    (b) They alleviate the body’s pain and inflammation.

    (c) They act as immunosuppressants in the body.

    (d) They protect the body from the diseases caused by pathogens

     

  • Human Outer Planet Exploration (HOPE)

    Why in the News?

    India has taken a significant step towards interplanetary human missions with the launch of the Human Outer Planet Exploration (HOPE) analogue station at Tso Kar, Ladakh.

    hope

    About HOPE (Human Outer Planet Exploration):

    • Purpose: Simulates Moon and Mars conditions to prepare for future human missions.
    • Developer: Built by Protoplanet (Bengaluru); partially funded by ISRO.
    • Location: Tso Kar, Ladakh (14,500 ft) — chosen for its lunar/Martian-like terrain.
    • Features: Enables isolation research, tech trials, and crew training; 1 of 33 such stations globally.
    • First Mission (2025): Two scientists (Rahul Mogalapalli, Yaman Akot) conducted a 10-day simulation focusing on resilience and mental health.
    • Significance:
      • Boosts India’s human spaceflight readiness.
      • Supports goals like Bharatiya Antariksh Station (2035) and Moon mission (2040).

    India’s Astronomical Assets in Ladakh:

    • Location: Indian Astronomical Observatory (IAO), at Mt. Saraswati (4,500 m), Hanle; run by Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
    • Key Instruments:
      • Himalayan Chandra Telescope (optical/infrared)
      • HAGAR (gamma rays, with Tata Institute of Fundamental Research)
      • MACE (Cherenkov telescope, with Bhabha Atomic Research Centre)
    • Stargazing hubs: Hanle, Nubra Valley, Pangong, Tso Moriri.
    • Advantages & Recognition:
      • 270+ clear nights; low humidity; dark skies.
      • Declared India’s 1st Dark-Sky Reserve (2022) to curb light pollution.
    [UPSC 2012] The world’s highest ground based telescopic observatory is located in

    Options: (a) Colombia (b) India* (c) Nepal (d) Switzerland

     

  • Biologics & Biosimilars: The next frontier in Affordable Medicines

    Why in the News?

    While most medicines are small molecule drugs with simple structures, a newer class—biologics and biosimilars—is reshaping modern medicine with their complex, targeted action.

    What are Small Molecule Drugs?

    • Definition: Chemically synthesised, low molecular weight compounds.
    • Features: Fixed structure, chemically stable, easy to replicate, patent-protected.
    • Cost Dynamics: Expensive while under patent; affordable generics post-expiry (e.g., Sovaldi dropped from $84,000 to $1,000).

    About Biologics & Biosimilars:

    • Biologics-
      • Overview: Large, complex drugs made from living cells or organisms.
      • Examples: Insulin (~5,800 daltons), Remicade (~150,000 daltons).
      • Nature: Slight structural variations possible; used for cancer, autoimmune diseases, hormone therapy.
    • Biosimilars-
      • Overview: Near-identical versions of biologics, made after patent expiry.
      • Not Generics: Due to complex cell-based production, they’re similar but not identical.
      • Use: Offer lower-cost alternatives to high-end biologics.

    Regulation and Reform:

    • Current Barriers: Biosimilars need costly trials (animal + clinical), unlike generics.
    • Global Moves: UK and USA are easing animal trial norms (organ-on-chip, human models).
    • India: Still follows older norms; waivers under review, but clinical trials still mandatory.

    Significance for India:

    • Access: Generic small molecules transformed Indian healthcare.
    • Opportunity: Affordable biosimilars can do the same for chronic and rare diseases.
    • Urgency: Regulatory reform is key to reduce costs, speed up access, and widen healthcare coverage.
    [UPSC 2020] What is the importance of using Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccines in India?

    (1) These vaccines are effective against pneumonia as well as meningitis and sepsis. (2) Dependence on antibiotics that are not effective against drug-resistant bacteria can be reduced. (3) These vaccines have no side effects and cause no allergic reactions.

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only* (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • What is Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project?

    Why in the News?

    Researchers in Britain & Ireland are aiming to sequence all animals, fungi and plants under the Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project.

    About Darwin Tree of Life (DToL) Project:

    • Objective: To sequence the genomes of all ~70,000 known eukaryotic species (whose cells contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles) found in Britain and Ireland.
    • Initiated: In 2019 as a UK–Ireland contribution to the Earth BioGenome Project.
    • Geographic Focus: Great Britain and Ireland, chosen for their well-documented and accessible biodiversity.

    Key Features:

    • Phases:
      • Pilot Phase (2019–2022): Focused on collecting 8,000 species; targeted 2,000 genome assemblies.
      • As of 2025: ~8,000 species collected; over 2,000 genomes sequenced.
    • Approach:
      • Systematic specimen collection and species verification.
      • High-quality genome sequencing using advanced tools and curated pipelines.
    • Public Access: All genome data is released openly via the DToL portal and public archives.
    • Scientific Significance:
      • Enhances understanding of evolution, adaptation, and species relationships.
      • Supports conservation efforts amid growing biodiversity threats.
    • Applications: Informs conservation biology, medicine, agriculture, and climate adaptation.
    [UPSC 2011] At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

    1. It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.

    2. It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.

    3. It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only* (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR)

    Why in the News?

    The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) has been successfully launched from Sriharikota using GSLV Mk-II.

    NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR)

    About NISAR (NASA–ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar):

    • Launch Vehicle: GSLV Mk-II | Launch Site: Sriharikota, India
    • Mission Life: 3 years (planned); 5+ years (design)
    • Orbit: Sun-synchronous polar orbit at 747 km with 98.4° inclination
    • Objective: High-precision monitoring of Earth’s surface changes—tectonics, agriculture, ecosystems, ice, floods, and landslides
    • Data Access: Free and near real-time; disaster maps delivered in under 5 hours
    • Hardware Contributions:
      • NASA: L-band SAR, 12m antenna, avionics
      • ISRO: S-band SAR, satellite bus, launch services
    • Development and Collaboration:
      • Initial Concept: 2007 (NASA); ISRO joined in 2012
      • Formal Agreement: 2014
      • Investment: NASA – ~$1.16 billion; ISRO – ~$90 million

    Key Features of NISAR:

    • What is Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)?
      • Operates day/night, all-weather
      • Simulates large radar antenna via motion
      • Penetrates clouds, vegetation, and soil
    • Dual-Band SAR:
      • L-band SAR (1.257 GHz):
        • Deeper penetration; ideal for forests, tectonic shifts, permafrost
      • S-band SAR (3.2 GHz):
        • Surface details; supports agriculture, flood mapping, biomass tracking
    • Radar Antenna:
      • 12-meter deployable mesh reflector
      • Resolution: 3–10 m spatial; cm-level vertical
      • Swath Width: 240 km
    • Imaging Frequency:
      • Global land/ice coverage every 12 days
      • Less frequent in polar zones
    • Data Output: Generates 80 TB/day (3x current Earth observatories):
      • Biomass and cropland maps
      • High-resolution flood and infrastructure data

    Applications and Impact:

    • Disaster Relief: Before-and-after imagery for planning
    • Climate Monitoring: Glacier melt, forest degradation
    • Agriculture: Crop health, rotation, food security
    • Infrastructure: Detects land subsidence (dams, cities)
    • Strategic Value:
      • Most powerful Earth-observing radar satellite
      • First with dual SAR payload
      • Strengthens India–US space partnership (Artemis, human spaceflight)
    [UPSC 2010] Question: In the context of space technology, what is Bhuvan, recently in the news ?

    Options: (a) A mini satellite launched by ISRO for promoting the distance education in India (b) The name given to the next Moon Impact Probe, for Chandrayaan-II (c) A geoportal of ISRO with 3D imaging capabilities of India* (d) A space telescope developed by  India

     

  • Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

    Why in the News?

    Over a century after Einstein explained Brownian motion, California Institute of Technology (Caltech) scientists have created a powerful microscope that shows molecules moving in real time at an extremely tiny scale.

    Novel Microscope observes Molecular Motion

    What is Brownian Motion?

    • Definition: Random movement of tiny particles in a fluid due to constant collisions with surrounding molecules.
    • Significance: Validated the existence of atoms and molecules; explained by Albert Einstein in 1905.
    • Particle Behavior: Smaller particles move faster and more erratically; larger ones move slower.

    About Caltech Microscope:  

    • Resolution: Angstrom-level (1 Å = 0.0000000001 m).
    • Speed: Captures hundreds of billions of frames per second.
    • Advantage: Wide-field, single-shot imaging with no sample damage.
    • How It Works?
      • Setup: Fluorescent molecules in water illuminated by ultrafast lasers.
      • Light Capture: Scattered light directed via Digital Micromirror Device.
      • Streak Imaging: Light converted to electron patterns revealing molecular size.
      • Reading Size: Faster changes = smaller molecules; slower = larger.
    [UPSC 2000] Which one of the following can be used to confirm whether drinking water contains a gamma emitting isotope or not?

    Options: (a) Microscope (b) Lead plate (c) Scintillation counter* (d) Spectrophotometer

     

  • Bamboo-Polymer Composite as alternative to Plastics

    Why in the News?

    IIT Guwahati researchers have created a strong, eco-friendly material using bamboo and biodegradable plastic to replace regular plastic in car interiors and other uses.

    About the Bamboo-Polymer Composite:

    • Origin: Made using Bambusa tulda, a fast-growing bamboo from Northeast India.
    • Composition: Reinforced with bio-based and petroleum-based epoxies for strength.
    • Objective: Reduce dependence on synthetic plastics in industrial sectors.
    • Process: Bamboo fibres undergo alkali treatment to bond well with polymers.
    • Evaluation: Tested across 17 parameters—tensile strength, water resistance, cost, etc.

    Key Features and Benefits:

    • High Strength: Suitable for load-bearing automotive components.
    • Thermal Stability: Can withstand high interior vehicle temperatures.
    • Low Moisture Absorption: Ideal for humid environments.
    • Eco-Friendly: Biodegradable, lowers environmental impact.
    • Cost-Effective: ₹4300 per kg—commercially viable.
    • Best Variant: Bamboo + bio-based epoxy FormuLite chosen through performance scoring.

    Applications:

    • Automotive: Dashboards, door panels, seat backs.
    • Electronics & Packaging: Lightweight, durable material.
    • Aerospace: Used for sustainable composite components.
    • Construction: Green alternative for interiors and fixtures.
    [UPSC 2021] Consider the following statements:

    1. Carbon fibres are used in the manufacture of the components used in automobiles and aircrafts.

    2. Carbon fibres once used cannot be recycled.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?”

    Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • AdFalciVax Vaccine for Malaria

    Why in the News?

    The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has introduced AdFalciVax, a new malaria vaccine candidate targeting Plasmodium falciparum.

    About AdFalciVax

    • Developer: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR); private partners will handle trials and manufacturing.
    • Vaccine Type: Chimeric recombinant vaccine targeting Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest malaria parasite.
    • Technology:
      • Circumsporozoite Protein (CSP): Offers direct protection to the vaccinated individual.
      • Pro6C Protein: A hybrid of Pfs230 and Pfs48/45 that blocks transmission via mosquitoes.
    • Key Advantages
      • Dual Benefit: Provides personal protection and reduces community transmission.
      • Full-length CSP: Promotes a stronger and longer immune response compared to current vaccines.
      • High Efficacy in Animals: Over 90% protection in animal models (human trials pending).
      • Stability: Contains alum as an adjuvant — safe, effective, and stable at room temperature for 9 months.

    Malaria Control in India:

    • Progress:
      • Malaria deaths reduced from 1,151 in 1995 to 83 in 2022 (National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme).
      • World Health Organization estimates are higher (5,511 deaths in 2022).
    • Current Limitation: India’s dominant malaria strain is Plasmodium vivax, which AdFalciVax does not target.

     

    [UPSC 2010] Widespread resistance of malarial parasite to drugs like chloroquine has prompted attempts to develop a malarial vaccine to combat malaria. Why is it difficult to develop an effective malaria vaccine ?

    (a) Malaria is caused by several species of Plasmodium*

    (b) Man does not develop, immunity to malaria during natural infection

    (c) Vaccines can be developed only against bacteria

    (d) Man is only an intermediate host not the definitive host.