Indian Scientist proposes to have found treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

  • IASbaba
  • November 20, 2020
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Indian Scientist proposes to have found treatment for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II – Health & GS-III – Achievements of Indians in Sci and Tech

In news

  • Sandeep Eswarappa, Assistant Professor at IISc, Bengaluru proposes to provide new genetic treatment for duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Important value additions 

  • Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a severe type of muscular dystrophy that primarily affects boys. 
  • Females with a single copy of the defective gene may show mild symptoms.
  • Muscle weakness usually begins around the age of four, and worsens quickly. 
  • Muscle loss typically occurs first in the thighs and pelvis followed by the arms.
  • This can result in trouble standing up.
  • Most are unable to walk by the age of 12. 
  • Scoliosis is also common. 
  • Some may have intellectual disability.

Do you know?

  • It is caused by a mutation in the gene for the protein dystrophin. 
  • Dystrophin is important to maintain the muscle fiber’s cell membrane.
  • Although there is no known cure, physical therapy, braces, and corrective surgery may help with some symptoms.

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