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Archive for the ‘Population Health Management, Nutrition and Phytochemistry’ Category

The Payload Revolution: Redefining the Future of Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs)

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph. D.

 

Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) are at the forefront of targeted cancer therapy. While much attention has focused on antibody engineering and linker technology, the real breakthrough may lie in the payload—the cytotoxic compound delivered to tumor cells.

Historically, ADC payloads have relied on microtubule inhibitors like MMAE and MMAF, and topoisomerase I inhibitors such as SN-38 and Exatecan. These payloads are potent but limited in diversity, making differentiation difficult in a crowded therapeutic landscape.

The next wave of innovation introduces unconventional payloads with novel mechanisms:

  • ISACs (Immune-Stimulating ADCs) activate the immune system locally.
  • Protein degraders eliminate cancer-critical proteins without inhibiting them directly.
  • Urease-based and membrane-disrupting agents affect the tumor microenvironment.
  • RNA polymerase inhibitors and peptide-based payloads offer precision with reduced systemic toxicity.

This shift also places new demands on linker design. Linkers must now accommodate payloads with diverse chemical properties and release them selectively at the tumor site. A payload–linker mismatch could compromise both safety and efficacy.

Ultimately, the focus is shifting toward payloads not just as cytotoxins, but as precision-guided interventions. This evolution could redefine how ADCs are developed and positioned in treatment regimens, enabling breakthroughs in resistant and heterogeneous cancers. The ADC revolution is payload-powered—and the future belongs to those who can innovate at the molecular level.

References:

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/asmitasinghsharma_%F0%9D%97%A7%F0%9D%97%B5%F0%9D%97%B2-%F0%9D%97%99%F0%9D%98%82%F0%9D%98%81%F0%9D%98%82%F0%9D%97%BF%F0%9D%97%B2-activity-7336738434645901312-wfz1

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41573-022-00590-3

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10301933

https://www.cell.com/fulltext/S0092-8674(22)01299-7

https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.22.02474

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8257482

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Protein Switches: The Programmable Future of Bio-therapeutics

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph. D.

 

A PNAS paper entitled “A protein therapeutic modality founded on molecular regulation” presents a pioneering approach to creating protein switches—engineered enzymes that activate only in specific molecular environments. This design introduces a new class of context-dependent therapeutics for precision medicine.

Using domain-insertion techniques, researchers inserted ligand-binding domains into scaffold proteins like β-lactamase. These proteins remain inactive until encountering a specific small molecule, which triggers a conformational change and restores enzymatic activity. This offers precise spatiotemporal control—ideal for minimizing off-target effects.

One key innovation is the systematic insertional mutagenesis that identifies functional switch sites across the protein scaffold. This enables the construction of vast protein libraries, increasing the likelihood of finding optimal switch configurations. Furthermore, the approach is modular—different binding domains and enzymes can be combined to create switches tailored to specific clinical contexts.

These smart proteins can be programmed to respond to cancer biomarkers, metabolite levels, or disease-specific molecular cues. By activating only under disease conditions, they provide a blueprint for next-generation bio-therapeutics—potent, selective, and safer.

The method also opens avenues for drug delivery systems, diagnostics, and biosensors, where conditional activation is critical. Overall, this work represents a conceptual leap in synthetic biology and bioengineering, with implications spanning oncology, infectious disease, and regenerative medicine.

References:

https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1102803108

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21646539

https://www.nature.com/articles/nchembio.581

https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.biochem.8b00392

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41587-020-0585-5

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fbioe.2022.870310/full

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Immuno-Timebombs: The Hidden Drivers of Age-Related Illness

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph. D.

 

There are two converging biological processes that drive most age-related diseases: immunosenescence and inflammaging. Together, they explain how a deteriorating immune system and chronic low-grade inflammation contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and frailty.

Immunosenescence refers to the waning competence of both innate and adaptive immune systems. With age, T and B cells become less effective, and macrophage function declines. This makes older individuals more susceptible to infections and less efficient at clearing dysfunctional cells.

Inflammaging, on the other hand, is the persistent presence of inflammation without infection. Factors like gut microbiome alterations, senescent cell accumulation, and epigenetic drift contribute to this condition. Over time, this “silent fire” damages tissues and lays the groundwork for disease.

These drivers don’t just correlate with disease—they often precede it. This positions inflammaging and immunosenescence as targets for prevention, not just treatment. Interventions like exercise, caloric modulation, and anti-inflammatory diets may attenuate their effects. Emerging therapies such as senolytics and immune rejuvenation approaches (e.g., thymic regeneration) are showing promise.

This article also calls for a paradigm shift in medical science—from reactive disease management to proactive longevity interventions. As we unravel the biological clocks of aging, strategies targeting immune recalibration may delay or prevent multiple diseases simultaneously.

The future of healthy aging may well depend on how early we can intervene in this immuno-inflammatory loop—before pathology sets in.

References:

https://erictopol.substack.com/p/the-drivers-of-age-related-diseases

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-019-0661-0

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7761661

https://www.cell.com/fulltext/S0092-8674(19)30184-4

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2020.579220/full

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9649506

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Advances in Liver Transplantation: New Frontiers in Organ Regeneration and Immunomodulation

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph. D.

 

Recent research in the field of liver transplantation has been marked by significant advancements in organ preservation, immune tolerance, and regenerative medicine. Efforts have been made to address the critical shortage of donor organs and reduce long-term complications associated with immunosuppressive therapy.

Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) techniques have been employed to preserve and assess donor livers outside the body. This method has allowed marginal or extended criteria livers to be reconditioned, increasing the usable donor pool. The viability of these organs has been improved through real-time functional monitoring during perfusion.

Immunological tolerance has been targeted through cell-based therapies and gene editing strategies. Regulatory T-cell therapies and tolerogenic dendritic cells have been investigated to reduce the reliance on lifelong immunosuppression. CRISPR-based gene editing is also being explored to modify donor tissues before transplantation to evade host immune responses.

In parallel, liver organoids and bioengineered tissue scaffolds have been studied for their potential in partial transplantation or functional support in acute liver failure. Although clinical application remains at an early stage, these developments have suggested future directions for transplant alternatives or bridge-to-transplant therapies.

Artificial intelligence has been integrated into transplant decision-making, predicting post-transplant outcomes and optimizing donor-recipient matching. These models are being trained on large datasets to improve prognostic accuracy.

Ethical concerns surrounding organ allocation equity and experimental treatments continue to be actively discussed. However, these advancements have collectively pushed the boundaries of transplant medicine toward safer, more personalized, and more sustainable outcomes.

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29670285

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32976865

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32546694

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31954498

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Weighty Decisions: Drugs or Surgery for Diabetes?

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph. D.

 

A multicenter retrospective cohort study published in The Lancet has evaluated the effectiveness of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), including semaglutide and tirzepatide, versus bariatric surgery in managing type 2 diabetes and obesity. The study was conducted using data from real-world clinical settings involving adults with type 2 diabetes and a body mass index (BMI) over 30.

Patients treated with GLP-1 RAs were found to have significant improvements in glycemic control and weight loss; however, bariatric surgery led to more pronounced and sustained reductions in HbA1c and body weight over a 2-year follow-up. Cardio-metabolic benefits, including blood pressure and lipid profile improvements, were also more prominent in the surgery group.

Despite this, GLP-1 RAs were associated with a lower incidence of early complications and shorter recovery times. Adverse gastrointestinal events were commonly reported in both groups, though surgical complications were more severe but less frequent.

This study suggested that while bariatric surgery remains the most effective intervention for sustained weight and glycemic outcomes, GLP-1 RAs offer a safer, non-invasive alternative with substantial benefit, particularly for patients ineligible or unwilling to undergo surgery. The potential for GLP-1 RA therapy to delay or reduce the need for surgical intervention was also discussed.

These findings have emphasized the importance of personalized treatment strategies based on patient comorbidities, preferences, and risk profiles.

References:

https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370(25)00145-2/fulltext

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27222544

https://diabetes.org/newsroom/press-releases/american-diabetes-association-releases-standards-care-diabetes-2024

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17715408

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32870301

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Tirzepatide Outperforms Semaglutide in Diabetes Control

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph. D.

In a recent clinical study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the effectiveness of tirzepatide was compared with that of semaglutide in patients with type 2 diabetes. The trial was conducted to evaluate which of the two medications offers better glycemic control and weight loss benefits when combined with standard care.

It was found that participants treated with tirzepatide achieved significantly greater reductions in both HbA1c levels and body weight than those who received semaglutide. A once-weekly administration of tirzepatide was shown to be more effective across multiple dosages. These findings were consistent even in patients with longstanding diabetes and those previously treated with insulin or oral agents.

Gastrointestinal side effects were commonly observed in both groups, including nausea and diarrhoea, but were generally mild to moderate in severity. No new safety concerns were identified during the study period.

The enhanced dual agonist mechanism of tirzepatide, which targets both GIP and GLP-1 receptors, is believed to have contributed to its superior efficacy. While semaglutide acts only on the GLP-1 pathway, tirzepatide’s dual action is thought to improve insulin sensitivity, promote satiety, and reduce appetite more robustly.

This trial represents a significant advancement in diabetes care and suggests that tirzepatide may become a preferred treatment option in clinical practice. It has been proposed that future studies investigate its long-term cardiovascular effects, impact on diabetic complications, and cost-effectiveness in diverse populations.

References:

https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2416394

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S154235652400226X

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29364588

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29364588

https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789241565257

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Unlocking the Secrets of Longevity: A 117-Year-Old Woman’s Genes Defied Aging

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph.D.

A recent study led by the University of Barcelona has shed light on the genetic factors contributing to exceptional human longevity. The research focused on Maria Branyas Morera, who was recognized as the world’s oldest living person until her passing at age 117 in August 2024. The findings revealed that her unique genetic makeup allowed her cells to function as if they were 17 years younger, and her gut microbiota resembled that of an infant.

Branyas Morera attributed her remarkable lifespan to “luck and good genetics.” Beyond her genetic advantages, she maintained a healthy lifestyle characterized by a Mediterranean diet, regular physical activity, and strong family bonds. These factors likely contributed to her prolonged cognitive clarity and minimal health issues, primarily limited to joint pain and hearing loss.

This study adds to a growing body of research exploring the genetic foundations of longevity. For instance, the Okinawa Centenarian Study has examined over 600 centenarians from Okinawa, Japan, uncovering genetic markers associated with extended lifespan and reduced incidence of age-related diseases.

Similarly, the New England Centenarian Study has identified specific genetic variations linked to longevity, providing insights into the biological mechanisms that allow some individuals to live significantly longer than average.

Researchers hope that understanding these genetic factors can inform the development of treatments for age-related diseases, challenging the notion that aging and illness are inextricably linked. By studying individuals like Branyas Morera, scientists aim to uncover strategies to promote healthier aging across the broader population.

However, it’s important to note that while genetics play a crucial role in exceptional longevity, lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and social connections also significantly impact overall health and lifespan. The interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental influences continues to be a critical area of research in understanding human aging.

References

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/13/supercentenarian-aging-genes-study?CMP=oth_b-aplnews_d-1

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2024/oct/13/why-everything-you-think-about-living-to-100-might-be-wrong?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/oct/13/good-news-everyone-we-appear-to-have-reached-peak-longevity?utm_source=chatgpt.com

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Bridging the Gender Gap in Healthcare: Unlocking Biopharma’s Potential in Women’s Health

Curator: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph.D.

Nearly half of the global population—and 80 percent of patients in therapeutic areas such as immunology—are women. Yet, treatments are frequently developed without tailored insights for female patients, often ignoring critical biological differences such as hormonal impacts, genetic factors, and cellular sex. Historically, women’s health has been narrowly defined through the lens of reproductive organs, while for non-reproductive conditions, women were treated as “small men.” This lack of focus on sex-specific biology has contributed to significant gaps in healthcare.

A recent analysis found that women spend 25 percent more of their lives in poor health compared with men due to the absence of sex-based treatments. Addressing this disparity could not only improve women’s quality of life but also unlock over $1 trillion in annual global GDP by 2040.

Four key factors contribute to the women’s health gap: limited understanding of sex-based biological differences, healthcare systems designed around male physiology, incomplete data that underestimates women’s disease burden, and chronic underfunding of female-focused research. For instance, despite women representing 78 percent of U.S. rheumatoid arthritis patients, only 7 percent of related NIH funding in 2019 targeted female-specific studies.

However, change is happening. Companies have demonstrated how targeted R&D can drive better outcomes for women. These therapies achieved expanded FDA approvals after clinical trials revealed their unique benefits for female patients. Similarly, addressing sex-based treatment gaps in asthma, atrial fibrillation, and tuberculosis could prevent millions of disability-adjusted life years.

By closing the women’s health gap, biopharma companies can drive innovation, improve therapeutic outcomes, and build high-growth markets while addressing long-standing inequities. This untapped opportunity holds the potential to transform global health outcomes for women and create a more equitable future.

References

https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/life-sciences/our-insights/closing-the-womens-health-gap-biopharmas-untapped-opportunity?stcr=97136BA6BDD64C2396A57E9487438CC6

https://www.weforum.org

https://www.nih.gov

https://www.fda.gov

https://www.who.int

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Chicoric Acid: A Natural Boost for Glucose Metabolism via AMPK Activation

Reporter: Dr. Sudipta Saha, Ph.D.

The study published in Journal of Functional Foods explores the molecular mechanisms underlying chicoric acid’s (CA) role in glucose metabolism. Chicoric acid, a natural polyphenolic compound found in plants like chicory and basil, has garnered attention for its anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties. The researchers investigated its potential to regulate glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity, focusing on the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway.

The experiments demonstrated that chicoric acid significantly enhances glucose uptake in insulin-sensitive and insulin-resistant cells. This effect was primarily mediated through the activation of AMPKα, a key metabolic regulator that responds to energy stress. The phosphorylation of AMPKα triggered downstream signaling cascades, including the activation of Akt, a protein crucial for glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) translocation to the cell membrane, thereby facilitating glucose uptake.

Interestingly, the study also noted that inhibiting AMPK activity reduced CA-induced Akt phosphorylation, confirming that AMPK activation is essential for chicoric acid’s metabolic effects. Furthermore, CA showed potential in improving insulin sensitivity, which is impaired in type 2 diabetes, by mitigating cellular oxidative stress and inflammation.

The findings suggest that chicoric acid could serve as a promising therapeutic candidate for managing diabetes and metabolic disorders. By targeting the AMPKα-Akt signaling axis, CA offers a dual benefit of improving glucose metabolism and reducing insulin resistance, highlighting its potential as a natural alternative for metabolic health interventions.

References

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1756464619302774

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22436748

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11742412

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12145153

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SNU-BioTalk 2025: Symphony of Cellular Signals in Metabolism and Immune Response – International Conference at Sister Nivedita University, Kolkata, India on 16 & 17 January 2025

SNU-BioTalk 2025: Symphony of Cellular Signals in Metabolism and Immune Response – International Conference at Sister Nivedita University, Kolkata, India on 16 & 17 January 2025

Joint Convenor: Dr. Sudipta Saha (Member of LPBI since 2012)

About the Conference:

The International Conference on ‘Symphony of Cellular Signals in Metabolism and Immune Response’ focuses on the complex signalling pathways governing cellular functions in health and disease. It will explore the cellular mechanisms that regulate metabolism, immune responses, and survival, highlighting advances in medical science and biotechnology. Bringing together leading experts and emerging researchers, the conference will feature keynote lectures, panel discussions, research presentations, and interactive sessions, all designed to foster collaboration and innovation. By promoting an exchange of ideas, the event aims to drive transformative insights and solutions that impact human health and sustainable healthcare practices.

The conference will also be livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook

This programme will also host I-STEM: Indian Science, Technology and Engineering facilities Map (I-STEM) is a dynamic and interactive national portal for research cooperation.

Thrust areas:

  • Intracellular signalling processes of cellular metabolism
  • Signalling pathways in physiological and pathological processes
  • Signalling in innate and adaptive immunity

Conference Webpage: https://www.snuniv.ac.in/snu-biotalk-2025/

NU-BioTalk 2025 Abstract Submission Form: https://forms.gle/ygdGqtuBGa7DEhDFA

SNU-BioTalk 2025 Registration Form: https://forms.gle/unasPpByLmYwrRBM6

Programme Schedule:

YouTube Links of Live Telecast:

Day 1:

Day 2:

Media:

Newspaper:

The Telegraph – Click to View

 

Abstract Book

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Abstract Book

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