The Biotechnology Journal

Why is chocolate not recommended during common cold? 1. High sugar content → Immune suppression Scientific reason: Chocolate (especially milk chocolate) contains a high amount of simple sugars. Glucose spikes in blood reduce the efficiency of neutrophils (white blood cells) by interfering with phagocytosis. Consequence: • Reduced ability to fight viruses • Prolonged duration of cold • Slower recovery 2. Increased mucus viscosity Scientific reason: Sugar and dairy components increase mucus viscosity by altering water content and glycoprotein structure in respiratory secretions. Consequence: • Thick, sticky phlegm • Nasal congestion worsens • Heavier throat irritation and cough 3. Dairy proteins → Perceived phlegm formation Scientific reason: Milk chocolate contains casein , which interacts with saliva and mucosal secretions, increasing their thickness. This does not increase mucus production but increases mucus sensation . Consequence: • Feeling of throat blockage •...

  Central Dogma of Molecular Biology Introduction Modern molecular biology rests on one unifying principle: the Central Dogma of Molecular Biology . Proposed by Francis Crick, it explains how genetic information flows inside living cells and how that information becomes structure, function, and life itself. In its classical form, the central dogma states: DNA → RNA → Protein This flow is not automatic. Every step is executed, regulated, and safeguarded by specific enzymes . Understanding these enzymes transforms the central dogma from a memorized pathway into a mechanistic, logical system . DNA: The Genetic Information Store DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the primary genetic material of most organisms. It is: Double-stranded and antiparallel Composed of nucleotides with bases A, T, G, and C Chemically stable and ideal for long-term storage Genes are specific DNA sequences that encode proteins or functional RNAs. DNA itself does not perform cellular work; instea...

  Streptodornase: The DNase That Supercharges Streptococcal Virulence “Streptodornase is basically a DNA cutter that helps bacteria escape our immune system. Think of it as a molecular scissor that lets them break free from our traps.” Streptococcus pyogenes owes much of its invasive capability to a secreted DNase collectively termed streptodornase. While traditionally described as an enzyme that “degrades extracellular DNA,” its biological significance is far more strategic: streptodornase is a precision immunity-evasion factor that rewires host–pathogen interactions by eliminating DNA-based structural and immunological barriers. Firstly the question: Why DNA Degradation Matters in Infection? During acute infection, host tissues accumulate extracellular DNA originating from Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) Necrotic host cells Viscous inflammatory exudates This DNA is not passive debris; it is a biophysical defense element. NETs, in particular, immobiliz...