Genome editing is bringing clarity to the study of hereditary cancer
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Context
Cancer remains one of the global health challenges, with the number of cases and related deaths steadily increasing. Advances in genetic research are shedding light on hereditary factors contributing to cancer, as well as providing new tools for early detection and treatment.
Background
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has provided global estimates, which suggest that one in five people may develop cancer in their lifetime.
This number is projected to rise, with nearly half of cases likely to occur in Asia by 2045. Understanding the genetic foundations of cancer is key to developing personalized approaches to prevention and treatment.
Why in the news?
Recent discoveries in genetic research have drawn attention to the role of hereditary mutations in cancer risk. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes associated with breast and ovarian cancer are a major focus of studies, and new research on the RAD51C gene provides additional information.
These findings open the path to personalized treatments and early detection strategies, offering hope for reducing cancer mortality.
Genetic Mutations: The Root Cause of Cancer
Cancer is caused by genetic mutations in the body's genome, with some of these mutations being inherited. About 10% of cancer cases are associated with inherited mutations, which increase a person's chance of developing the disease.
Ovarian cancer, in particular, has a high incidence of inherited mutations.
Hereditary Cancer Syndromes: An Overview
There are more than 50 identified hereditary cancer syndromes, caused by genetic variants that can be passed down through generations.
An important breakthrough in understanding these syndromes was the discovery of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in the 1990s, which paved the way for research into hereditary breast-ovarian cancer syndrome and other genetically influenced cancers.
BRCA Gene Mutations: Prevalence and Risk
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes increase the risk of various cancers, particularly breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancers. These mutations occur in about one in 400 people but are more widespread in certain populations, such as Ashkenazi Jews, due to genetic bottlenecks and founder effects.
For example, one in 40 people in this group carry a BRCA mutation, putting them at a higher risk of developing hereditary cancers.
The importance of genetic testing and targeted therapies
Genetic testing for mutations in BRCA and other cancer-related genes is important for early detection.
By identifying high-risk individuals, physicians can recommend preventive measures such as increased surveillance, preventive surgery or targeted therapies. PARP inhibitors, a type of chemotherapy, have shown promise for treating cancers associated with BRCA mutations.
Advances in cancer research: CRISPR and beyond
Innovations such as CRISPR technology have revolutionized cancer research by enabling scientists to study genetic mutations more precisely. CRISPR allows researchers to create specific mutations in genes such as BRCA to better understand how these mutations affect cancer development and treatment resistance.
New discoveries: The RAD51C gene and cancer risk
Recent research has identified more than 3,000 genetic changes in the RAD51C gene, which is involved in DNA repair. Some of these mutations are associated with a significant increase in the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
These findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting this gene, further advancing personalized cancer treatments.
The future of cancer prevention
Population-level genetic studies play an important role in understanding how hereditary cancers manifest in different groups.
Routine genetic screening for at-risk populations can help improve cancer outcomes through early detection, preventive measures, personalized treatments, and lifestyle changes.
Conclusion
Recent discoveries in the field of inherited cancer have provided important information about how genetic mutations affect cancer risk.
With continued research, the ability to predict, prevent, and treat cancer will improve, potentially reducing the global cancer burden.
Way Forward
Expanding access to genetic testing and incorporating new research findings into clinical practice will be the keys to reducing cancer incidence and mortality. As research develops, personalized medicine and preventive strategies will play a central role in the fight against cancer.
Suggestions sought from the public for review of Income Tax Act
Context
The Government of India is taking steps to simplify the Income Tax Act, 1961 as part of its ongoing efforts to modernize tax laws and improve compliance.
The initiative was introduced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in the Union Budget 2024, with the aim of making tax rules more understandable and reducing legal disputes.
Background
The Income Tax Act, 1961, has been the backbone of India's tax system for over six decades. However, due to changes in the economy and increasing complexity, it has become necessary to review and update the law in line with current requirements.
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) is playing a leading role in this amendment process, inviting inputs from taxpayers and the general public.
Why in the news?
In line with the Union Budget 2024, the CBDT has initiated a public consultation process to collect suggestions for the review of the Income Tax Act.
This consultation is an important step in ensuring that the amended Act reflects the needs and concerns of taxpayers, while also promoting greater transparency and efficiency.
Information Technology Act 2000
The Information Technology Act 2000, introduced by the Indian Parliament, is India's primary legislation addressing cybercrime and electronic commerce.
It was enacted to regulate digital transactions and reduce cybercrimes, following the United Nations' 1996 Model Law of Electronic Commerce (UNCITRAL Model).
Commonly known as the IT Act 2000, this framework consists of 94 sections spread across 13 chapters and 2 schedules.
Importance of IT Act 2000
Some of the key reasons why the Information Technology Act 2000 is important are as follows -
- The Act provides legal recognition to electronic records, which supports the growth of e-commerce and digital transactions in India.
- It makes electronic signatures legally valid, equivalent to physical signatures.
- The act led to the creation of the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA), which is responsible for issuing digital signatures and certificates and keeping them secure.
- It makes it mandatory that companies obtain consumer consent before collecting or using personal information.
Objectives of the Information Technology Act 2000
The main objectives of the IT Act 2000 include -
- To facilitate efficient delivery of government services and enable digital transactions between businesses and individuals.
- To impose penalties for cybercrimes such as data theft, identity theft and cyberstalking to ensure a secure digital environment.
- To establish rules and regulations for monitoring cyber activities and electronic communications and commerce.
- To encourage growth, innovation and entrepreneurship in India's IT/ITES sector.
IT Act 2000 and its Amendments
With the advancement in technology, the Indian Parliament has amended the Act to stay relevant. The two major amendments include -
- 2008 Amendment
This amendment amended Section 66A, which imposed penalties for sending offensive messages electronically. However, the vague definition of “offensive” led to misuse and the section was eventually scrapped.
- 2015 Amendment Bill
Another attempt to amend Section 66A which was aimed at protecting the fundamental rights of citizens under Article 19 of the Constitution. It was later struck down as unconstitutional.
Internal committee to lead the review process
The review process is being overseen by an internal committee constituted within the Income Tax Department.
This committee will consider inputs from the public and work towards modernising the Income Tax Act to address current challenges, reduce complexities and streamline compliance.
Goal of the review: Simplification and tax certainty
The primary objective of the review is to make the Income Tax Act more concise and easy to understand. Simplification will not only reduce disputes and litigation but also provide greater tax certainty to taxpayers, making the overall process more transparent and efficient. The review is expected to be completed within six months, as per the timeline of Union Budget 2024.
Public Participation: Input Categories
The CBDT has opened the platform for public suggestions, which can be submitted through the e-filing portal. Inputs are being sought under four major categories -
- Language Simplification: Making the law more accessible by simplifying legal terminology.
- Litigation Reduction: Proposals to reduce tax disputes and unnecessary legal battles.
- Reduction in Compliance: Suggestions to make tax filing and compliance easier for taxpayers.
- Obsolete Provisions: Identifying and eliminating obsolete provisions that no longer serve any purpose.
This initiative encourages active participation of the public, ensuring that the reformed tax law meets modern expectations and improves the taxpayer experience.
Conclusion
The Government of India’s initiative to modernize the Income Tax Act, 1961, reflects a strong commitment to simplify tax laws and improve transparency.
By involving the public and focusing on reducing disputes, the review process aims to create a more efficient tax system that meets the needs of today’s economy.
Way Forward
To ensure the success of this reform, the government must remain open to diverse stakeholder inputs, regularly update tax laws in line with the evolving business environment, and continue to promote digitalisation.
Streamlining compliance and increasing clarity in tax regulations will further enhance taxpayer confidence and drive economic growth.
Prime minister internship scheme
1. Launch & Origin: The Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme was announced in the Union Budget 2024-25 as part of the PM’s Employment and Skilling Package.
2. Goal: The scheme aims to provide 1 crore internship opportunities over five years, targeting hands-on work experience for youth to boost employability and skill development.
3. Pilot Phase: In the fiscal year 2024-25, 1.25 lakh internships will be offered under the pilot phase of the scheme.
4. Budget: A total of โน2 lakh crore has been allocated for the scheme, with โน2,000 crore designated for the first year (2024-25).
5. Exclusions: Candidates from prestigious institutions like IITs and IIMs, as well as those holding advanced degrees (MBA, CA), are not eligible for the internship.
6. Internship Features: It receives 5000 stipend per month by the government.
7. Insurance & Support: Interns are covered under government insurance schemes like PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana.
8. Helpline: This scheme includes a multilingual and demand approach in this system.
9. Significance: By offering practical, real-world job experience across industries such as pharma, agriculture, and auto, the scheme aligns with the government’s vision of self-reliance .
