Chilli leaf curl disease (ChiLCD), caused by begomoviruses and their associated satellite molecules, is a major constraint to chilli (Capsicum annuum) production worldwide. During field surveys conducted in 2025 in Vidisha and Raisen districts of Madhya Pradesh, India, chilli plants exhibiting severe leaf curl, crinkling, blistering and stunting symptoms were observed. PCR amplification using begomovirus-specific primers successfully detected the virus in symptomatic plants. PCR amplification using DNA-B-specific primers did not detect a DNA-B component, supporting the occurrence of a monopartite begomovirus; a betasatellite was also detected in three of the seven symptomatic samples using universal β01/β02 primers. Complete viral genomes were obtained by rolling circle amplification, restriction digestion, cloning and primer-walking sequencing. BLASTn analysis of the complete begomovirus DNA sequence showed 94–98
Mesothelioma, an insidious disease with a belligerent, treatment-resistant tumor of the mesothelium, primarily linked to asbestos exposure, poses significant therapeutic challenges. While traditional treatment approaches have limited effectiveness, new approaches that make use of oncolytic viral therapy (OVT) have shown promise in overcoming the severe challenges this illness presents. This study investigates oncolytic viral treatment as a cutting-edge therapeutic method for mesothelioma, including its principles, mechanisms of antitumor efficacy, tumor selectivity, immune system activation, innovations, and prospects. The concepts involve the targeted reproduction of viruses in tumor cells, leading directly to oncolysis, and the induction of host immune responses against cancerous cells. The use of OVT, particularly for mesothelioma, is thoroughly reviewed, with an emphasis on different viral platforms, including RNA viruses, Newcastle disease virus, Stomatitis virus, Adenovirus, and other developing options. Moreover, the potential for improved therapy outcomes is highlighted by the exploration of synergistic treatment combinations that combine oncolytic viruses with immunomodulators, targeted treatments, and conventional chemotherapeutic drugs. Critical evaluation is given to methods for overcoming the obstacles of OVT, such as developing new delivery systems, optimizing treatment plans, and genetically modifying viruses. Oncolytic virotherapy for mesothelioma has a bright future ahead of it owing to current clinical trials and encouraging research projects aimed at improving treatment approaches and broadening the armamentarium of oncolytic viruses. In conclusion, OVT is a promising therapeutic technique for treating mesothelioma, providing a comprehensive strategy for tumor eradication and immune system stimulation, ultimately transforming the treatment landscape for patients with mesothelioma. Schematic overview of OVT unveiling their underlying molecular mechanisms in tumor cells, and combinatorial approaches involving immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and nanobiomaterials for enhanced anti-tumoral response in mesothelioma treatment.
Excessive reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides in Indian agriculture has led to resistance development, environmental contamination, and food safety concerns, necessitating sustainable alternatives for crop protection. Exogenously applied double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) pesticides have emerged as a promising next-generation strategy that operates through RNA interference (RNAi), enabling sequence-specific gene silencing in target pests without altering genomes. These products offer high specificity and rapid degradation, and off-target effects can be minimized through sequence-specific design. In India, significant progress has been made in dsRNA research, with successful applications reported against major insect pests, fungal pathogens, and plant viruses under laboratory and small field trials. Advances in formulation and delivery techniques highlight growing translational potential of dsRNA pesticides. Internationally, exogenously applied dsRNA is generally regulated as a biochemical or conventional pesticide rather than a genetically modified organism, with risk assessment frameworks focusing on molecular characterization, environmental fate, exposure, and non-target effects. Absence of a dedicated regulatory pathway in India continues to hinder commercialization and investment. Aligning existing provisions under the Insecticides Act, 1968, or future pesticide legislation with internationally harmonized guidelines such as those of the OECD could facilitate safe deployment and global acceptance. Addressing challenges related to production cost, formulation stability, field performance, resistance management, and public perception will be critical. Establishing a science-based regulatory pathway presents a strategic opportunity for India to advance sustainable pest management solutions.
Persistent infection with high-risk Human Papillomavirus (hr-HPV) is a majorrisk factor in the development of cervical cancer, and the distribution of viral genotypes and the occurrence of multiple HPV infections are reported worldwide. Therefore, region-specific data on HPV genotype distribution are essential for strengthening viral surveillance and guiding cervical cancer prevention strategies. In this cross-sectional study, HPV infection status and genotype distribution were investigated among 152 histologically confirmed cervical cancer patients and 132 cancer-free women as control group. Cervical swab samples were subjected to real-time PCR-based HPV genotyping capable of detecting 14 high-risk and 2 low-risk HPV types. HPV DNA was identified in 90.1
COVID-19 disease is the result of SARS-CoV2 viral infection. Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) is an important enzyme which protects the cells against oxidative damage and plays a key role in the antioxidant defense mechanisms. Previous studies have robustly documented the negative relationship between mortality of COVID-19 with polymorphisms of this gene. In the present study, the relationship between two GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms with COVID-19 and the disease severity was studied. 300 participants were divided into three groups (100 healthy controls, 100 ward-hospitalized, and 100 ICU-hospitalized) and genotyped for GSTM1 and GSTT1 deletions using multiplex PCR. Statistical analysis, including Chi-square testing and odds ratio, measured the association between genotypes and severity of the disease. Null genotypes of GSTM1 were not found to have a significant relationship with COVID-19 severity (p = 0.520). However, the GSTT1 null genotype was found more often among the ICU group compared to controls (p = 0.033, OR = 0.545, 95
