Scientists Claim First CRISPR Editing of Human Embryos in the USA

By Richa Verma

With CRISPR technology editing the DNA code of human embryo, can we hold our breath for an absolute eradication of inherited disorders like Thalassemia and similar conditions? The answer is still unclear as there is no such publication about the claims on decoding the DNA with CRISP editing technology. As per the MIT Technology Review, the research team led by Shoukhrat Mitalipov at Oregon Health and Science University has been successful in an effort to edit the genes of human embryo using CRISPR editing technology for the first time.

Gene editing has been a controversial practice, but still we had earlier seen three such efforts involving human embryo editing in China.

You can call it genetically modified human embryos or improved embryos sans defective cells with mutations responsible for inherited diseases. Even if DNA editing is controversial, it contributes to the elimination of hereditary illnesses.

Advantages of CRISPR Editing Technology

The genetic manipulation using the CRISPR editing technology in the human embryos seems viable and an effective way to remove defects from the genes, and combat thousands of diseases. The technology uses molecular scissors to influence the performance of the gene sequencing. And as a result, it can eliminate the undesirable components from it. Hence, it paves the way for the replacement of new and improved DNA with the faulty genes.

The claim also raises hopes for families with concerns for the genetic diseases, as it is capable of preventing the further spread of the deadly disorders like malaria in the body.

There is another way for which the finding holds a true and promising possibility for our future generation as well. By editing the gene sequencing in the human embryos, we can expect the "human germline editing". This means when the editing technology will instill embryos of offspring with new mutated cells, the characteristics and features of the edited DNAs will be carried through offspring after offspring. So, the germline gets fixed permanently in each successive generation and follows a hereditary pattern of a family.

With the new CRISPR editing technology, we have no more editing errors known as "mosaicism" as was the case with earlier Chinese experiments. And the desired improvement technique is thought to be followed not only by some, but all the cells in the embryo.

Contradictory Opinion about The Claims

Some critics argue that we absolutely do not need such technology to detect deformities in human embryos and correct them with CRISPR editing technology. That's because the efficacy of the technology is deemed unfit as it is unable to perform as expected if two copies of defective genes are present in the embryos.

On the other hand, we already have preimplantation diagnosis technology or OPD to detect disease causing cells in the embryos. And by using this technique, the faulty genes can be replaced through in vitro fertilization.

Disadvantages

The techniques seem to violate the rule of natures as it advocates for the creation of the designer babies. Rather than editing the disease causing genes, the technique is more likely to foster the enhancement techniques, meaning future parents would seek editing techniques to remove imperfections in their children. And we fear that this approach would lead to a genetic discrimination.

However, if the claims are true, we can free ourselves from a range of diseases, including anemia, Huntington's disease and other genetic diseases through gene modifications. So, let's keep our fingers crossed for a true future possibility.

Read more https://www.cordlifeindia.com/stem-cell-uses-and-treatable-diseases.

Article Source:  Scientists Claim First CRISPR Editing of Human Embryos in the USA

Study Reveals How to Reprogram Cells in Our Immune System

By Richa Verma

Our immune system is calibrated to provide us with specific protection shields against harmful diseases, and other conditions too. On being influenced by the excessive active cells and intruder cells, interfering with its physical functions, our immune system is more likely to lose its strength to fight diseases, and as a result it causes a range of autoimmune diseases or different types of leukemia.

Immune cells mostly referred to as T cells can reverse the effects of these defective cells and reinstate the balance through a reprogram technique. With a reprogram technique manipulating the performances of certain immune cells, we can remain unaffected to the prevalence of different diseases, including cancers and psoriasis. This also fosters the development of new treatment options.

This is how the scientists at the Gladstone Institute have expressed about their latest findings. A renowned journal Nature has published about this metabolic mechanism in an elaborate way.

How Much Effective Is the Whole Method Of Reprogramming T Cells?

The whole method of manipulating T cells or immune cells, advocates for the reduction of anti-inflammatory reactions, developed in the immune system through pro-inflammatory genes. So, the inflammation causing factors in the immune system could be curtailed using this modification theory.

On the basis of the findings, there are two types of cells termed as Effector T cells and Regulatory T cells. These two cells play a key role in regulating our whole immune system. The Effector T cells build a shield against the pathogens so as to protect us from the vulnerability to infections, once the immune system gets charged up. The Regulatory T cells on the other hand, restrict further attacks of the pathogens to the healthy parts of our body.

With Regulatory T cells being converted into Effector T cells under the influence of reprogramming technique, a molecule drug appears to be a great precursor in the whole process. So, this method seems to be effective in converting one cell into another cell type.

The conversion methods show promise to find the etiology of the disease, especially auto-immune diseases, making it possible to eradicate the diseases from its root. Say, when effector T cells are charged up excessively in the body in the presence of autoimmune disease, the T cells expose the body to harmful effects. But by converting these Regulatory T cells, the balance of the immune system can be reinstated, followed by the reduction of hyperactivity.

Treatment for Immune-Oncology

Another way, the study is intensifying our hopes against the deadly effects of cancers and tumor related disorders. We can achieve a better outcome for immune-oncology and cancer treatments. The process is ineffective in influencing the cancer cells though; it defies its attacks on the activation of the immune system.

Since cancer cells seem to be stronger to influence Regulatory T cells, they make a room in the immune system for the growth, and hence, the detection becomes quite tough. But, the findings could help us in detecting cancerous cells and destroying them by strengthening the immune system through a conversion of Effector T cells from Regulatory T cells.

More Scopes for Stem Cell Therapies

It also brings a revolutionary milestone for stem cell therapies. With the development of Regulatory T cells, we could reverse the effects of graft-versus-host-disease, and also make our body adjust to the newly-transplanted cells.

With a reprogram technology for immune system, we could defend ourselves from a range of diseases, once which were termed as unavoidable medical cases. Hence, we can live our dream to make a disease-free world in the future.

Read more at   https://www.cordlifeindia.com/blog/treating-leukaemia-with-cord-blood/.

Article Source:  Study Reveals How to Reprogram Cells in Our Immune System

How to Make 200k By Staying Healthy

By Chris Bouchard

Staying healthy seems like a punishment to many until it is accompanied by the opportunity to earn you 200k.

Given that both cost savings and staying healthy are desirable but challenging aspects with an impact on your financial wellbeing, several approaches can be employed to ensure that both are achieved seamlessly without discarding the other.

Here are some of the approaches to staying healthy and earn 200k in cost savings and as extra income from various incentivized wellness programs.

Insurance discount

Insurance premiums are periodically deducted in your income to facilitate payment of medical bills in case you fall ill. Some insurance providers encourage healthy living among their clients so as to reduce the cost of claims. Customers who stay healthy benefit from discounts on premium payable or cashback refunds. Some insurance providers give up to 15% as a refund to customers who exhibit healthy living in their activities and medical records.

Paid wellness challenges

Several wellness challenge applications that encourages healthy living by incentivising the entire process using financial rewards exist on the market. Subscribers commit to a programme and set a goal which upon being met will be paid with cash and cash equivalents. However, if the subscriber fails to meet the target, for example losing 500 calories in a week, the application deducts an agreed amount from their committed funds. This approach provides both positive and negative motivation aimed at encouraging healthy living.

Alternative workout

The average gym membership cost is approximated at $58 a month, exclusive of the extra charges such as the registration/initiation fee and other fringe costs. It translates to roughly as high as $1000 a year depending on the location. Earn this $1000 by using alternative workout regimes with equipment that are freely available in your house or engage in outdoor activities and freely access public facilities.

Cycling to work

The average commuting cost and time in America is $10 and 25 minutes respectively. This translates to an annual cost of $2600. Cycling to work not only eliminates this cost but it also provides you with an ample 50 minute mental and physical workout to and from work.

Go veggie

You can save up to $25 a week or $1200 annually by omitting meat and meat products in your meals. Increased intake of vegetables not only helps you to stay healthy but stopping meat consumption also boost the 'health' of your wallet through cost savings.

Befriend technology

Wearable gadgets and smart watches have inbuilt healthy living applications that tracks physical activities such as walking, the heart rate, calories burned or added, etc. This data can be synchronized to other stakeholders such as retail stores and businesses that encourage healthy living, and the user earns points that are converted into cash discount redeemable at the store.

It pays, literally, when you stay active and healthy, and within 1-2 years of staying healthy you can make up to 200k. Staying healthy and being physical active saves you money in the in the long run (pun intended).

Chris Bouchard is a strategic consultant who works with non-profit leaders and social entrepreneurs to apply concepts and techniques to identify complex strategic issues, find practical solutions, and devise strategies to create and win a unique strategic position. He also offers project development, proposal writing, and project evaluation services.

Article Source:  How to Make 200k By Staying Healthy

Almonds Have Many Health Benefits - Here Are 8 of Them

By Hari Om Agrawal

Many people say that eating almonds helps us in increasing brain power. Yet no one has explained this theory, but Almonds Have Many Health Benefits - Here Are 8 of Them!

1. It promotes digestion process:

Good digestion means better health and better fitness. The outer layer of almonds holds enzyme inhibitor, which is discharged by soaking almonds in water. It is how almonds become healthier and digestion friendly. Your diet becomes low fat diet because the enzymes present in almonds help you in dealing with fat.

2. Anti-aging properties:

Aging is one of the most troubling skin issues, which girls and women never want to face. If you are also one of those who want to look younger, eat almonds. You will get vitamin C via almonds, which is an antioxidant and helps us in reducing aging symptoms. It means, you can look much younger by consuming almonds daily.

3. Aids in good growth of unborn baby:

Soaked almonds are great nutrition for pregnant women. Soaked almonds offer folic acid, which is quite necessary for appropriate growth of fetus's brain and other parts. Doctors always suggest ladies to consume almonds as they get the positive benefits. In addition, soaked almonds promote digestion process. It helps new moms in easily digesting food they eat.

4. Essential for brain:

Health experts have studied and have found that almonds can easily improve the functionality of central nervous system. All you have to do is just eat 5-6 almonds daily and it will promote the performance of your brain.

5. A reliable cure for dry and chapped skin:

Many people experience skin disorders like itching, inflammation and dry skin. To get rid off of such problems apply paste of soaked almonds. Your itching problem will get treated quite quickly and there will be no chance of facing such problem again.

6. Natural hair conditioner:

Chemical mixed hair conditioners of big brands often cause adverse effects also. It is the reason many people feel afraid of using such products. You can create your own hair conditioner by using almond seeds. Grind almond seeds with olive oil and apply the paste on scalp and hairs. It will work to make your hair smoother and stronger.

7. Controls cholesterol:

People try everything to keep increasing levels of LDL cholesterol under control. Of course, it is not quite easy to do, especially if you love to enjoy urban lifestyle. The almonds can easily control LDL cholesterol levels because they contain monounsaturated fatty acids. MUFA is renowned for reducing LDL cholesterol levels and increasing HDL cholesterol levels.

8. Aids in repairing damaged skin cells:

If your skin is looking unattractive because of dead skin cells, you should eat almonds. These seeds work for repairing damaged skin cells from inside the skin. You get more attractive and glowing skin.

Therefore, include almonds in your daily diet as Almonds Have Many Health Benefits which help you stay fit and healthy.

Description: Many people say almonds helps us in increasing brain power. Yet no one has explained this theory but Almonds Have Many Health Benefits - Here Are 8 of Them!

Health and Beautycare is big resource to resolve various Health related issues in natural way without prescription medication with home made remedies, yoga and exercises and herbal products. http://lifestyle-health-fitness.com/fruits-and-vegetable/

Article Source:  Almonds Have Many Health Benefits - Here Are 8 of Them

Healthy Living - Three Reasons Why You Should Focus On Hydration

By Beverleigh H Piepers

Looking to boost your hydration? If not, it is time to rethink that. Nearly everyone needs to get more fluids into their day, and this fluid should come primarily from water. Often people eat when they are just thirsty. Drinking sufficient amounts of fluid helps to prevent this kind of overeating and has many other benefits as well. Fluid fills the stomach for a short time, and it gives you something to digest that does not necessarily contain calories.

So many of us are walking around in a chronically dehydrated state, and this can be the cause of many health problems. There are several reasons why you need to get your water intake up, but let us look at three of the most important ones right now...

1. It Improves Physical Performance. Want to go that extra mile in the gym? Try drinking more water. As little as 1% dehydration can have negative impacts on your strength output, so it pays to get your fluids in.

Many people know it is essential to drink water after a workout session since you have been sweating, but what they forget is it is as important to go into their workout well hydrated.

Drink water before you hit the gym for better results.

2. It may Help Reduce Cancer. Cancer is one of the most devastating diseases, and yet, it can be prevented to some degree. Eating the right foods and drinking enough water is essential.

Dehydration can be linked to an increased risk of developing colon or bladder cancer, so if those run in your family, you will want to put as much focus as you can on meeting your 8 to 10 glasses of water a day quota. If your urine is a pale yellow color, this is a sign you are well hydrated.

3. It Can Enhance Your Energy Level. Finally, the last reason to drink more water is it can help to boost your overall energy level as well. Those who are in a state of dehydration will notice decrements in their endurance as well as their whole day energy level.

If you feel fatigued and do not feel like doing much of anything, try drinking more water. It may help you remedy the situation.

This list is by no means exhaustive. There are many other reasons to increase your water intake so do your best to increase the number of glasses you drink each day. Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go, and you will find it is easier than you may think.

Although managing your disease can be very challenging, Type 2 diabetes is not a condition you must just live with. You can make simple changes to your daily routine and lower both your weight and your blood sugar levels. Hang in there, the longer you do it, the easier it gets.

For nearly 25 years, Beverleigh Piepers has searched for and found a number of secrets to help you build a healthy body. Go to http://DrugFreeType2Diabetes.com to learn about some of those secrets.

The answer isn't in the endless volumes of    available information but in yourself.

Article Source:  Healthy Living - Three Reasons Why You Should Focus On Hydration