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Source: The post is based on the article “Amyloidosis: Scientists fabricate 2D protein monolayer that can help to study diseases like Amyloidosis” published in “PIB” on 22nd November 2023.
Why in the News?
Scientists have created a 2D protein monolayer by assembling lysozyme molecules. This can help study diseases such as Amyloidosis.
What is Amyloidosis?
| Specifications | Details |
| Definition | It is a rare disease that occurs when a protein called amyloid builds up in organs. This amyloid buildup can make the organs not work properly. |
| Affected organs | Organs that may be affected include the heart, kidneys, liver, spleen, nervous system and digestive tract. |
| Causes | Secondary to a different health condition or can develop as a primary condition. Sometimes it is due to a mutation in a gene. |
| Types | AL (primary) amyloidosis: People with conditions such as multiple myeloma or a bone marrow illness are more likely to have this. |
| AA (secondary) amyloidosis: It is caused by fragments of amyloid A protein and affects the kidneys in about 80 percent of cases. | |
| Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR): It can be inherited from a family member. People of African descent may be more likely to carry the gene. Note: Transthyretin is a protein that is also known as prealbumin. It is made in the liver. | |
| Treatment | Chemotherapy, Bone Marrow Transplant and medications. |
What is Lysozyme?
1) Lysozyme is a protein present in mucosal secretions. It is found in various bodily fluids like tears, saliva, mucus and human milk.
2) It plays a crucial role in the body’s defense system by breaking down bacterial cell walls and acting as an antimicrobial agent.
3) Large amounts of lysozyme can be found in egg white.
4) It can be regarded as a model protein in studying diseases like Amyloidosis.
UPSC Syllabus: Diseases in News
